Physical Therapist Assistant - Outpatient - Ortho

Cleveland Clinic • Fort Gratiot Charter Township, MI

6d • Onsite

About The Position

The Physical Therapist Assistant works under the direct supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist to implement patient treatment. The role includes teaching exercises to improve patients’ mobility, strength, and coordination, and training patients to use crutches, canes, and walkers. Some assistants may also be trained in massage. The position serves a wide variety of patients and provides multidisciplinary exposure and learning opportunities.

The caregiver works staggered hours four days per week, with shifts varying between 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. and 8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. The role requires following standard precautions and using personal protective equipment as required.

Requirements

• Associate's degree or certificate.
• Graduate of a Physical Therapy Assistant Program accredited by the American Physical Therapy Association.
• State licensure as a Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA).
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification through the American Heart Association (AHA) or the American Red Cross.
• Ability to walk and climb stairs without an assistive device and maintain balance despite sudden load to support a patient from falling.
• Ability to meet physical demands characterized at the heavy level defined by 1993 Leonard Matheson and Ministry of Labor.
• Ability to lift and reach with arms sufficiently to lift a patient's arm and leg during therapeutic treatment.
• Touch sensation and manual dexterity to palpate muscle tension or monitor a patient's pulse.
• Visual acuity to observe patients' gross and fine motor movements and read patient monitors.
• Ability to speak clearly enough to instruct patients and families.
• Ability to hear at a conversational level to understand patients' descriptions of symptoms and responses to treatment.

Nice To Haves

• Five years of prior experience in an outpatient orthopedic environment.

Responsibilities

• Administer patient-centered Physical Therapy treatment using evidence-based practice and skilled techniques to achieve optimal functional outcomes under the supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist.
• Observe, communicate, and document patient progress and response to treatment.
• Plan, organize, and implement individualized therapeutic programs with patients and families, incorporating evidence-based practice.
• Provide education on Physical Therapy-related subjects to patients, clients, caregivers, hospital personnel, and the community.
• Act as a clinical instructor or participate in the education and evaluation of students.
• Serve as a resource for volunteers and observers.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: Associate degree