Job Description

The Physical Therapy Assistant, under the supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist, performs patient testing and/or procedures, administers a program of therapeutic exercise/treatment, and provides instruction and demonstration for patients. Additionally, the Assistant maintains accurate documentation on patient progress. May supervise PTA students.

Patient Care

• The Physical Therapy Assistant, under the supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist, performs patient testing and/or procedures, administers a program of therapeutic exercise/treatment, and provides instruction and demonstration for patients.
• Maintains accurate documentation on patient progress.
• May supervise PTA students.
• Demonstrates understanding of physical therapy evaluation and follows treatment plan as outlined by the P.T.
• Competently and safely carries out all assigned physical therapy treatment.
• Collects and documents objective data under direction of P.T.
• Accurately documents treatment record and progress notes according to hospital and department documentation procedures.
• Conducts patient and family education concerning treatment, safe use of equipment and home programs as identified in the physical therapist's plan of care.
• Notifies the physical therapist of new physician's orders and requests P.T. assessment before proceeding with treatment.
• Notifies physical therapist and requests reassessment and modification of treatment plan at least every 6th treatment day and when goals have expired.
• Effectively performs schedule board functions by promptly scheduling patients for treatment and effectively scheduling staff for maximum productivity and fair distribution of work.
• Notifies Physical Therapist of changes in patient's medical or functional condition.

Regulatory/Quality

• Utilizes time to accomplish work in an efficient manner by consistently demonstrating direct patient care contact at a productivity level of at least 75% (24 billable units per day).
• Assumes personal responsibility for completing and maintaining competencies in all areas of department practice and takes initiative to enhance professional growth through educational programs, professional literature, in-services and workshops.
• Continuously engages in improving work processes that will facilitate the improvement of patient care.

Interdisciplinary Teamwork

• Communicates effectively and maintains professional, cooperative relationships with all members of the healthcare team.
• Shows initiative in assisting co-workers.
• Knows and uses the designated chain of command to: a) Communicate work related concerns/questions b) Present solutions/options for department concerns.
• Participates on committees as assigned and consults with department Director concerning department input and effects of committee decisions on department function and budget.

Other Duties as Assigned

• Effectively performs schedule board functions by promptly scheduling patients for treatment and effectively and scheduling staff for maximum productivity and fair distribution of work.
• Assists physical therapists in clinical education of physical therapist assistant students, providing mentoring and feedback on clinical performance.
• Demonstrates problem solving and good judgement.
• Accepts additional work assignments as assigned by Director, Team Leader, or other staff therapists.
• Consistently performs 12 organizational Service Standards focused on Values, Service and Quality.

Education Graduate of accredited physical therapy assistant program.

Special Skills

• Good interpersonal/human relations skills.
• Good oral/written communication skills.
• Good teamwork skills.
• Good critical thinking/decision making skills.
• Superior organizational skills.

Licensure/Cert: Current Louisiana State licensed as Physical Therapy Assistant (temporary licensure allowed); BLS Certification