Physical Therapist Assistant PTA (Healthcare)

Title: PHYSICAL THERAPY ASSISTANT
Reports to: PHYSICAL THERAPIST/BRANCH SUPERVISOR

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
1. Graduate of an accredited physical therapy assistant program with either an Associates degree in science or applied science that is approved by American Physical Therapy Association, Inc.
2. Current Certification or License as required by State Law.
3. Demonstrates knowledge of appropriate skills for communicating with individual ages of those served, primarily the geriatric population.
4. Demonstrates an ability to supervise and direct professional personnel.
5. Is self-directed. Has excellent observation and communication skills.
6. Has an ability to deal tactfully with the community.
7. Must be a licensed driver with an automobile that is insured in accordance with state and/or Agency requirements and is in good working order.

SUMMARY OF JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
A physical therapy assistant performs services planned, delegated, and supervised by the physical therapist; assists in preparing clinical notes and progress reports; and participates in educating the patient and family, and in in-service program (COP 484.32(a).
RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES
1. Implements physical therapy services in accordance with the plan of treatment developed by the Physical Therapist and signed by the physician and planned, delegated and supervised by the PT.
2. Assists PT in treating patient/client to relieve pain, develop or restore function and maintain maximum performance using appropriate physical therapy treatments, modalities and procedures as stated in the physical therapy plan of care.
3. Assists the physician and the PT in assessing the client's level of functioning by applying appropriate tests and in the development and revision (as necessary) of the plan of care.
4. Participates in instructing client, family, and other health team personnel in exercise program developed by PT for strengthening and controlling the lower extremities.
5. Utilizes physical agents, including, but not limited to heat, cold, water, light, electricity, ultrasound and massage as directed and supervised by the PT.
6. Observes records, and reports to the physical therapist and/or the Agencys Branch Supervisor and RN Case Manager, the patient's/client's reaction to treatment and any changes in patient's/client's condition. Documentation reflects communication.
7. Instructs patients/clients in care and use of wheelchairs, braces, crutches, canes, and prosthetic or orthotic devices under the direction and supervision of the PT.
8. Develops, prepares and maintains individualized client care progress records with accuracy, timeliness and according to policies. Submits accurate documentation.
9. Participates with Agency staff in care coordination activities, on an ongoing basis. Assists PT in coordinating the total plan of care and maintains continuity of client care by liaison with other health professionals. Participates in coordination of services for the patient/client. Initiates coordination of services for the patient/client for complex and/or multidisciplinary clients whenever needed or helpful to ensure good coordination of care.
10. Cooperates with PT and appropriate staff to provide staff education when requested and arranged by the Branch Supervisor.
11. Responsible for following all policies and procedures of the Agency, regarding service delivery, documentation, and care coordination.
12. Responsible for keeping current in therapy trends and knowledge. Participates in In-service programs.
13. Participates in Quality Improvement program of the agency. Can verbalize own responsibilities and activities.
The above statements are intended to be a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by incumbents of this job. The incumbents may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those stated in this description.

WORKING CONDITIONS
1. Community and home environment,
2. Exposure to infectious diseases,
3. In and out of automobile.
4. This position has been designated Class I Field clinical staff (see Infection/Exposure Control Plan). Employees performing Class I Field clinical staff duties may be involved in potential exposure to bloodborne pathogens and other potentially infectious materials. All Class I Field clinical staff employees will be offered Hepatitis B vaccination at no expense to the employee.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
1. Visual/hearing ability sufficient to comprehend written/verbal communication.
2. Ability to perform tasks involving physical activity, which may include heavy lifting/moving and extensive bending and standing.
3. Ability to deal effectively with stress.

CONTINUING EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
Must meet the required continuing education hours for state licensure as applicable. Agency personnel are expected to participate in appropriate continuing education as may be requested and/or required by their immediate supervisor. In addition, agency personnel are expected to accept personal responsibility for other educational activities to enhance job related skills and abilities. All agency personnel must attend mandatory educational programs.