Physical Therapy Assistant - PTA - Outpatient

Geisinger•Wilkes-Barre, PA

6d•Onsite

About The Position

Works under the direction and supervision of a licensed physical therapist to aid in the total rehabilitation of patients through various modalities, therapeutic exercise, gait training, and functional activities. The position performs treatment programs developed by the physical therapist and progresses patients safely and competently. It prepares and positions patients for treatment, administers modalities, assists with exercises and functional activities, and performs selected measurements. The assistant also fits and adjusts assistive devices, instructs patients and families in equipment use and home programs, monitors patient status, supports discharge planning, and completes required documentation. Work is typically performed in a clinical environment. The role is accountable for meeting job-specific obligations and complying with organizational policies and procedures. Additional competencies and skills outlined in department-specific orientation are considered essential to performing the role.

Requirements

Graduate from a specialty training program.
Must be licensed as a Physical Therapist Assistant in Pennsylvania.

Responsibilities

Perform treatment programs developed by the physical therapist and progress patients through them safely and competently.
Explain the treatment process and position patients for comfort, safety, and optimal treatment response.
Administer treatment modalities safely and appropriately.
Use active and passive therapeutic exercise programs and equipment, including range-of-motion, strengthening, stretching, and isokinetic training.
Perform gait training, transfer training, and other functional activities.
Perform selected measurements consistently and accurately, including joint range of motion, gross muscle strength, body-part length and girth, and vital signs.
Fit patients for and adjust assistive devices such as canes, walkers, crutches, and wheelchairs according to the patient's diagnosis.
Instruct and train patients in the proper use and care of orthoses, prostheses, and assistive devices.
Modify treatment procedures in response to the patient within the treatment plan's limits and discuss changes with the supervising physical therapist.
Provide patient and family instruction tailored to the patient's needs and treatment program.
Keep the physical therapist informed about patient status and problems that arise.
Perform discharge planning activities promptly and effectively as a rehabilitation team member and as directed by the physical therapist.
Provide for patient equipment needs when applicable.
Teach patients and families home exercise programs, safe mobility skills, and safe equipment use and operation.
Complete patient-care documentation legibly and in compliance with departmental policy.

Benefits

Health, dental, and vision benefits starting on day one.
Three medical plan choices, including an expanded network for out-of-area employees and dependents.
Pre-tax healthcare and dependent-care flexible spending accounts and a health savings account.
Company-paid life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverage.
401(k) plan with automatic Geisinger contributions.
Paid time off plan with accrual.
Tuition reimbursement of up to $5,000 per calendar year.
MyHealth Rewards wellness program with a financial incentive.
Adoption and fertility assistance.
Parental leave pay and military leave pay.
Free Care.com membership with discounted backup care.
Employee Assistance Program, including referrals for childcare, eldercare, and pet care; legal guidance; mental health visits; work-life support; and digital self-help tools.
Voluntary benefits including accident, critical illness, hospital indemnity, identity theft protection, universal life, pet, and legal insurance.