Physical Therapist Assistant - Outpatient, Per Diem

• Assist the Physical Therapist in providing physical therapy treatments, in accordance with established policies and procedures.

• Administer Physical Therapy modalities of treatment as established under a Physical Therapist’s plan of care in an environment that optimizes patient safety and reduces the likelihood of medical/health care errors.

• Has skills in outpatient rehabilitation settings to effectively provide Physical Therapy treatments.

• Should at minimum be familiar with best practice and the latest evidence for common ambulatory clinic pathologies such as degenerative conditions, neurologic impairments, general orthopedics, and post-operative care.

• Should be proficient with rendering common treatment techniques such as, but not limited to; manual therapy, neuro rehab techniques, exercise modalities, gait and balance interventions, and use of functional activities to help patients reach maximum function.

• Specialty therapy certifications are not required however may enhance consideration.

• Must be flexible and responsive to providing care in alternative settings such as the inpatient unit for occasional cross-coverage and holiday coverage needs.

• Provides specific therapy services under direction of the Physical Therapist and in accordance with an established and written therapy plan of care based upon a physician’s order and the Physical Therapist’s assessment.

• Participates in, and assists the Physical Therapist in developing and reviewing the initial and comprehensive assessments of a patient’s needs and the individualized care plan

• Demonstrates an ability to consistently exercise appropriate judgment.

• Consults with the Physical Therapist and attending physician concerning therapy regimes and the patient’s progress.

• Administers treatments and therapeutic agents as prescribed by a referring physician and outlined in the Physical Therapy established plan of care plan in an effort to restore function and prevent disability following injury, disease or physical disability.

• Assists patients to reach their maximum performance and level of functioning, while learning to live within the limits of their capabilities.

• Observes treatment affect and recommends change to Physical therapist, if needed.

• Able to determine patient pain interfering with optimal level of function or participation in rehabilitation - makes appropriate Physical Therapist contact for intervention and management.

• Formulates a teaching plan based on identified learning needs; family/caregiver is included in teaching, as appropriate.

• Treats patients and their families with respect and dignity. Identifies and addresses psychosocial, cultural, ethnic and religious/spiritual needs of patients and their families.

• Manages and operates equipment safely and correctly. Maintains department cleanliness and safety.

• Interacts professionally with patient, family, and/or caregiver and involves them in the decision making process

• Communicates appropriately and clearly to physicians, staff and administrative team.

• Assists to coordinates patient care to ensure patients’ needs are met and hospital policy is followed.

• Consults other departments, as appropriate, to collaborate in patient care and performance improvement activities.

• Ensures that work/assignment areas are maintained in a clean and sanitary manner, and are in safe working order.

• Demonstrates to patients and personnel, as necessary, how to use medical appliances, such as wheelchairs, crutches, canes, braces, and prosthetic appliances and devices.

• Establishes trusting relationships with patients and family members by consistently demonstrating compassion, empathy, and respect.

• Records pertinent information in the resident’s medical record.

• Uses authorized abbreviations when recording information.

• Completes and dates all reports, forms, etc, and enters information in a clear, concise, and accurate manner, as appropriate.

• Uses supplies in an efficient and cost effective manner, and notifies the Director when supplies need to be replenished, or when not available.

• Ensures that patient charges are accurate and entered in a timely manner.