Job Posting
PHYSICAL THERAPY ASSISTANT - Outpatient Clinic
Job Title: Physical Therapy Assistant
Department: Physical Therapy
Reports To: Physical Therapy Director
Summary:
The Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) is responsible for administering physical therapy intervention as indicated within a written plan of care (POC) and supervised by a licensed Physical Therapist in accordance with the Texas PT Practice Act. The PTA provides rehabilitative services to patients, assists in restoring functional abilities, prevents disability due to injury or disease, and helps patients achieve their maximum potential in physical function. The PTA works in both inpatient and outpatient settings, including the Swing Bed Program, while ensuring that patient safety is maintained.
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Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Patient Care:
Administers physical therapy treatments as appropriate established by the Physical Therapist or written PT POC.
Performs treatments on patients at scheduled times and ensures patient comfort.
Instructs and prepares patients for treatments, explaining the process and the expected outcomes.
Applies physical agents, therapeutic exercises, and ambulatory procedures, and monitors patients during treatments.
Records patient treatments and progress notes in the electronic health record (EHR).
Reports treatment results to the supervising Physical Therapist and provides feedback regarding patient progress.
Assists in patient transfers and transports patients to and from therapy sessions as directed.
Documentation & Reporting:
Maintains accurate treatment records, including the patient’s full name, medical record number, and date of treatment.
Reports the effectiveness of treatments and denoted progress via daily notes and to the supervising Physical Therapist as needed. The PTA cannot modify established PT POCs.
Assists in maintaining appointments, records, and patient charge documentation.
Educates the patient, family, or caregiver on the treatment plan, exercises, and progress.
Equipment and Supplies Management:
Monitors the stock levels of physical therapy supplies and orders as needed.
Ensures the proper maintenance and cleaning of equipment used during treatments.
Assists in the routine maintenance including appropriate documentation of physical therapy equipment.
Supervisory and Training Responsibilities:
Assists in the supervision and training of PTA students and support staff.
Ensures that patients receive high-quality care in accordance with the treatment plan.
Assists in the coordination of patient care, collaborating with other healthcare providers as necessary.
Other Duties and Requirements:
Maintains patient confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA and other regulatory requirements.
Adheres to infection control and safety protocols when handling patients or materials.
Follows all policies and procedures as established by the Physical Therapy Department and hospital.
Demonstrates a positive and professional demeanor when interacting with patients, families, and staff.
Participates in staff meetings, departmental training, and performance improvement activities.
Performs other duties as assigned by the supervisor or Physical Therapist.
Qualifications
Education and Experience:
Graduate of an accredited Physical Therapy Assistant program.
Current Texas Physical Therapy Assistant License
Current BLS (Basic Life Support) certification.
One year of experience as a licensed Physical Therapy Assistant preferred.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Prior experience working in inpatient, outpatient, and Swing Bed programs is a plus.
Skills and Competencies:
Proficiency in administering physical therapy treatments, such as therapeutic exercises, manual therapy techniques, and physical modalities (e.g., electrical stimulation, ultrasound).
Ability to assess patient pain, monitor responses to treatments, and modify treatments as needed in collaboration with the Physical Therapist.
Excellent communication and customer service skills.
Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
Physical Requirements:
Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, and lift patients as necessary (up to 50 pounds or more).
Ability to assist with patient transfers and mobility.
Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-stress environment with prolonged physical activity.
Language Skills:
Able to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing.
Additional languages preferred.
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Professional Standards:
Comply with organizational policies regarding ethics, confidentiality, safety, and compliance.
Works effectively with staff, administration, and patients.
Reports to work on time and completes assignments within designated timeframe.
Attend mandatory training, staff meetings, and maintain required certifications.
Represent the organization positively and professionally.
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Working Conditions:
Primarily works in both inpatient and outpatient settings, including the Swing Bed Program, with regular interaction with patients in rehabilitation areas.
Occasional exposure to biohazards and infectious agents during patient care activities. Strict adherence to infection control and safety protocols is required.
Typically works during regular office hours, but flexibility is required to accommodate patient needs, including on-call or extended hours if necessary.
Work is performed in an environment with varying noise levels, including equipment sounds and patient activity. Adequate lighting is provided, but dim lighting may be used for specific treatments.
Reasonable accommodations will be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions without compromising patient car
Additional Information
Position Type : Full Time
Shift : Day
Contact Information
Laci Elliott - HR Director
HR
Email: lelliott@cranememorial.org |
