Physical Therapist Assistant

Chenega Corporation•San Antonio, TX

27d•Onsite

About The Position

The Physical Therapist Assistant will carry out a program of corrective exercise and treatment for assigned patients, as directed by the Physical Therapist. Under supervision, administer such treatment as exercise, gait training, massage, whirlpool, hot packs, diathermy, ultrasound, paraffin, ice packs and traction. Instruct patients on segments of the program including proper use of wheelchairs, crutches, braces, and prosthetic appliances and devices.

Requirements

Associates Degree from a college or university accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)
Minimum two (2) years experience providing direct patient care in physical therapy in the United States
Possess and maintain a valid, unrestricted license-certification during the length of the contract to practice as a Physical Therapy Assistant.
Possess and maintain valid Basic Life Support (BLS)
Ability to analyze and interpret abstract and concrete data, evaluate outcomes and problem-solve within scope.
Ability to read and interpret Doctor's daily notes from medical rounds.
Knowledge of acute medical conditions and how these conditions could affect patient mobility.

Nice To Haves

Experience and proficiency in outpatient orthopedic physical therapy, sport physical therapy and/or acute inpatient physical therapy

Responsibilities

Work effectively with flexibility and proficiency in patient management in a busy and rapidly changing environment.
React quickly to changes in complex patient presentation to ensure the safety of the patient in all situations.
Prioritize and optimally dose specific interventions to improve function and safe mobility to prepare the patient for discharge.
Administer traction to relieve neck and back pain, using intermittent and static traction equipment.
Instruct, motivate, and assist patients to learn and improve functional activities.
Observe patients during treatments and compile and evaluate data on patients' responses to treatments and progress and report orally or in writing to the physical therapist.
Fit patients for, adjust, and train patients in the use and care of orthopedic braces, prostheses, and supportive devices, such as crutches, canes, walkers, and wheelchairs.
Confer with members of the physical therapy staff and other health team members, individually and in conference, to exchange, discuss, and evaluate patient information for planning, modifying, and coordinating treatment programs.
Coordinate with other departments and the clinic staff to provide complete care to patients.
Provide required service within the rules and regulations of the Texas State board of Physical Therapy.
Perform all duties in such a manner that they meet all Joint Commission (JC) standards.
Educate patients, families or healthcare professionals in the rationale and techniques for the prescribed physical therapy treatment program.
Assist in conducting in-service educational programs for peers, subordinates, other healthcare providers and members of the military and civilian communities.
Carry out treatment plans designed by the military or civilian physical therapist. Includes execution of the full range of treatment procedures using therapeutic exercise, gait and balance training, manual muscle testing, and therapeutic modalities including but not limited to moist heat, ultrasound, traction, and electrical stimulation.
Establish and maintain full competency with the treatment procedures and exercise programs utilized in the section of assignment.
Interact effectively with patients and healthcare professionals to improve the quality of healthcare. This includes consultation with the physical therapist when patient(s) fail to respond or demonstrate adverse reactions to the treatment plan.
Serves as clinical instructor in full compliance with the guidelines established by the Texas chapter of the American Physical Therapy Association for the mastery and assessments of clinical skills or according to other guidelines established by the physical therapist assistant school of affiliating student.
Prepare any additional records or description of care if and when required, on the behalf of the MTF, the medical Command, the Military Health System, the Department of the Army, the Department of Defense.
Ensure that all treatments are clearly documented in patient records.
Complete and finalize assigned opening /closing clinical task according to established procedures. These may include but are not limited to end of the day close out in appointment systems, patient data collection, maintaining supplies, linen and performing infection control procedures.
May be required to travel with patients on rehabilitation and community integration activities. Such trips will be conducted during the traditional duty day, with Government-owned and Government-operated vehicles.
Examinations will encompass the full spectrum of physical therapist examination skills to adequately diagnose the cause of the patient's complaint.
Other duties as assigned