Physical Therapist Assistant

Appalachian Regional Healthcare, Inc.•Hazard, KY

About The Position

The Physical Therapist Assistant performs prescribed physical therapy treatments for patients under the direction and supervision of a Physical Therapist and provides clinical direction to physical therapy workers. The role may be based in a medical facility or a patient’s home and involves carrying out an established treatment plan, monitoring patient responses, documenting care, and supporting the physical therapy department.

Requirements

Successful completion of a two-year accredited program leading to an Associate Degree in Physical Therapy.
Current Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) licensure in the state of practice.
Knowledge of physical therapy principles, techniques, and treatment procedures.
Ability to provide physical therapy treatments under the direction and supervision of a Physical Therapist.
Ability to instruct patients in therapeutic exercises, ambulation, transfers, and use of assistive devices.
Ability to observe, assess, and report patient responses to treatment.
Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to accurately document treatments and patient progress in the medical record.
Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary healthcare team.
Knowledge of patient safety, infection prevention, and rehabilitation practices.

Nice To Haves

Minimum of one year of experience in a Physical Therapy department preferred.

Responsibilities

Provide physical therapy treatments in a medical facility or patient’s home under the direction and supervision of a Physical Therapist and in accordance with an established treatment plan.
Administer prescribed therapeutic interventions, including exercise, massage, heat, light, sound, water, electrical stimulation, infrared treatments, and hot or cold packs.
Instruct and assist patients in improving mobility, ambulation, transfers, and functional movement.
Educate patients in the proper use and care of assistive devices and prosthetic equipment, including artificial limbs, braces, crutches, canes, walkers, and wheelchairs.
Observe patients during treatment sessions and report progress, responses, and concerns to the supervising Physical Therapist.
Provide clinical direction and guidance to Physical Therapy support personnel as assigned.
Document treatments provided and patient responses accurately and promptly in the medical record.
Maintain required patient records, documentation, and statistical reports.
Assist in developing and presenting in-service education programs for hospital personnel.
Assist with cleaning, maintaining, and organizing physical therapy equipment and departmental areas.
Assist with patient transportation as needed.
Perform other related duties as assigned.