Physical Therapy Assistant

Description

General Description:  

          Primarily responsible for direct patient care under the supervision of the Certified Therapist.  Additional duties of  administrative nature as assigned.

Essential Job Functions:

1. Provides clinical services to appropriate residents under physician’s order.
2. Reports to Therapist information relating to patients’ progress, complication, and/or response to treatment.
3. Assists Therapist in performing procedures, tests, and complex treatments to ensure the safe, effective evaluation and treatment of the patient.
4. Maintains confidentiality of all patient-, facility-, and physician-related information.
5. Maintains accurate billing information in accordance with daily procedures.
6. Attends and participates in interdisciplinary meetings as appropriate.
7. Attends and participates in family meetings as appropriate.
8. Adheres to documentation requirements of Rehab department and the facility.
9. Reviews and follows policies and procedures outlined by the facility.

10. Perform any other duties as directed by supervisor.

Key Characteristics:

1. Demonstrates neatness, accuracy and dependability.
2. Contributes, develops and carries out new ideas.
3. Demonstrates an ability to work with others.
4. Ability to work independently.
5. Ability to work in cost and time efficient manner.
6. Teaches skills and knowledge to new staff.
7. Wears appropriate clothing/uniform.  Appearance is neat and well kept.
8. Relates well with residents; is friendly and pleasant.
9. Demonstrates good safety habits­—uses equipment appropriately.
10. Attendance/punctuality—comes to work when scheduled and on time.
11. Attends required in-services.

Equipment to be used:         

          Computer            printer                   fax                        copier

          Therapy equipment as provided in department.

Key Accountabilities (with or without reasonable accommodation):       

1. Complete, accurate, thorough, and timely documentation and billing procedures.  Proficient in entering all required data on computer system accurately and timely with a complete understanding of computer programs, such as (but not limited to) MDS and CREMS or other Rehabilitation documentation/outcome systems.
2. Performs complete, accurate, thorough and timely evaluations of residents and establishing safe and effective therapy  programs
3. Performs high quality, effective and safe therapies to patients while exhibiting professional behavior and attitude and respecting patient dignity and rights.
4. Properly trains patients and families in safe and effective rehabilitation techniques that will optimize their functional outcome while here and following discharge.
5. Effectively interacts and communicates with all interdisciplinary team members to discuss resident programs and limitations, including active participation in RCP and rehab. rounds.

Qualifications

Work Area and Working Conditions:

          Rehabilitation area, well-lighted, ventilated open work area, and around the facility.

Entry Level Qualifications:

1. Associates Degree in Therapy.
2. Current state license.
3. Excellent oral and written communication skills.
4. Knowledge of accreditation standards and compliance with state and federal regulations related to environment of treatment.
5. Able to cope with emotional stress associated with the job.
6. Must be alert, attentive to patients and work environment throughout the day.
7. Must be willing to work in an environment with risk of personal injury, exposure to infectious waste/materials, infectious diseases, and odors.

Physical Requirements:

1. Able to stand times (2) plus hours without interruptions or breaks.
2. Able to push, pull, move and or lift a minimum of 50 pounds to a minimum of 4 feet or carry 50 lbs. a minimum of 2 feet.
3. Must be able to perform all patient transfers, (including stand pivot, 2 person sliding board, Hoyer Lift, non-weight bearing) safely and effectively with or without mechanical devices.
4. Must be able to sit, stand, bend, lift, and move intermittently throughout the day.
5. Must be able to assist with the evacuation of residents during emergency situations.
6. Must pass Medical and Physical examination based on job qualifications, requirements and duties/responsibilities.