Physical Therapy Assistant

Physical Therapist Assistant

The physical therapist assistant provides physical therapy services under the direction of the physical therapist and according to the physician's plan of care.

1. Provides direct physical therapy according to directions of physical therapist and in accordance with the physician's plan of care.

2. Treats patient to relieve pain, develop or restore function, and maintain maximum performance.

3. Directs and aids patients in active and passive therapeutic exercises, muscle reeducation, gait and functional training, transfer activities and prosthetic training.

4. Utilizes physical agents, including, but not be limited to heat, cold, water, light, electricity, ultrasound and massage.

5. Observes and reports to the physical therapist and the organization personnel the patient's reaction to treatment and any changes in patient's condition.

6. Instructs patients in care and use of wheelchairs, braces, crutches, canes, and prosthetic or orthotic devices.

7. Maintains necessary records; clinical notes and conference notes, which will be incorporated into the patient's clinical record in prescribed time frames.

8. Participates in organization home care team members meetings and organization in-service education program.

9. Performs other duties as assigned.

The above statements are only meant to be a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by the employee of this job. The employee may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those stated in this description.

Job requirements (education, experience, knowledge, skills & abilities):

1. A PT assistant must be licensed where the HHA is located if licensure is required.

2. Must have graduated from a PT assistant program approved by CAPTE and have passed a national examination for PT assistants. Possesses and maintains current CPR certification.

3. The ability to drive and/or have access to transportation for agency related travel (e.g. community partners, patients, etc.) is an essential function of the job. Must have and maintain a valid driver's license, maintain automobile insurance coverage and have access to an automobile.

The employer for this position is The Pennant Group, Inc., a holding company of independent operating subsidiaries that provide healthcare services through home health and hospice agencies and senior living communities located throughout the US.