The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) works directly under the direct supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist assigned to the case and under the overall supervision of the Rehabilitation Supervisor. After the initial visit has been made by the licensed PT, the PTA will provide ongoing therapy services in accordance with the established plan. The PTA may contribute to the review of the plan of treatment, pre-discharge planning, and preparation of the discharge summary.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
The essential functions include, but are not limited to the following:
- Provides exceptional care to patients by providing therapeutic exercises as planned, delegated, and supervised by Physical Therapist
- Effectively communicates with the patient’s care team and follows instructions given by the assigned Physical Therapist
- Performs ongoing therapy services, which may include but are not limited to the application of heat and cold, massage, gait training, assistance and training in cardiopulmonary exercise, mobilization, assistance and training with ambulation, range of motion exercises, patient transfer, strengthening techniques, prosthetic training, and adaptive equipment
- Accurately documents care and patient’s progress promptly by meeting established deadlines, communicating regularly with other caregivers regarding case(s) documenting interdisciplinary communication, and by meeting regulatory agency and pay source requirements
- At least every 30 days, the PTA will conference with the licensed PT and document the meeting in the patient’s clinical record; this meeting includes a review of the current patient care plan and any appropriate modifications to the treatment regime
- Attends meetings such as regular team meetings, in-services, and ad-hoc informational or educational meetings
- Perform other duties as assigned
Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities)
- Graduate of a Physical Therapy Assistant Program, accredited by the American Physical Therapy Association or equivalent program
- Current and valid Connecticut Physical Therapist Assistant license (required)
- Recent work experience in home health (preferred)
- Driver’s License, Car Insurance and Car Registration
- Reliable transportation and the ability to drive in all types of weather conditions
- Ability and willingness to follow agency policies and procedures and work as a team member
- Strong interpersonal skills and good judgment
- A desire for further education to keep up with the ever-changing medical advances
Physical Demands and Work Environment
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the functions. While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to use hands or fingers, and handle or feel objects, tools, or controls. The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this position include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus. The noise level in the work environment is usually low to moderate.
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