Physical Therapy Assistant

Schuylkill • Quakertown, PA

3d • Onsite

About The Position

Provides care under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist. Teaches patients exercises for mobility, strength, and coordination; trains them in activities such as walking with crutches, canes, or walkers; teaches massage; and demonstrates the use of physical agents and electrotherapy, including ultrasound and electrical stimulation. Measures changes in patient performance resulting from physical therapy. The position is onsite at the Health Center at Quakertown, 99 N West End Blvd. The work shift is days, with a variable schedule between Monday–Thursday, 7 a.m.–7 p.m., and Friday, 7 a.m.–5 p.m.

Requirements

• Associate’s degree in physical therapy assisting.
• Ability to train and mentor others.
• Ability to work at various locations per diem.
• Ability to provide safe, compassionate, and competent physical therapy treatments.
• American Heart Association Basic Life Support certification for the State of Pennsylvania, required upon hire.
• Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) credential for the State of Pennsylvania, required upon hire.
• Ability to lift and carry 40–50 pounds; job examples include pushing/pulling patients on beds or stretchers (29 pounds of push force) and lateral transfers involving up to 50 pounds of the patient's weight.
• Frequent to continuous standing and walking; patient transporters may walk 8–10 miles per shift.
• May be required to kneel, bend, squat, and perform CPR, as applicable to the role.

Nice To Haves

• Successful completion of clinical affiliations required for completion of the PTA curriculum.

Responsibilities

• Provide physical therapy treatment consistent with the plan of care and the patient's condition to restore function, prevent disability, and help patients reach their maximum performance level.
• Instruct patients, families, and/or staff in exercise or mobility techniques and equipment use, using appropriate teaching methods and materials.
• Recommend modifications to existing physical therapy treatment plans to achieve maximum results.
• Apply modalities as indicated to aid recovery and/or provide pain relief.
• Provide cost-effective care in accordance with departmental billing guidelines.
• Complete and submit documentation according to policies, standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Communicate regularly with the supervising physical therapist about patient concerns and progress.
• Select and fit appropriate assistive devices for gait training and instruct patients in their proper use.
• Measure changes in patient performance resulting from physical therapy.

What This Job Offers

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