Under direct supervision of physical therapist, delivers prescribed physical therapy treatments, services and home instruction to patients to restore function, prevent disability following disease, injury or loss of a body part, and help patients reach maximum functional performance levels. Utilizes physical exercise, massage, heat, and prosthetic and orthopedic devices. Records and reports on patient progress.
Administers physical therapy care, or portions of programs, as directed by a licensed physical therapist. Recognizes and recommends changes for improvement in program content. Assists therapist during patient testing, evaluations and complex procedures.
Monitors patient condition levels; reports changes to appropriate individuals. Documents patient care efficiently, timely and effectively in the electronic medical record. Provides instruction in therapeutic procedures to be continued by patient and/or family/caregiver.
Conducts or participates in training medical and other personnel in therapy techniques and objectives. Attends patient care staffing, conferences and other related meetings; coordinates with other service areas to ensure proper patient care. Demonstrates sensitivity to patient comfort and privacy.
Adheres to TMCH organizational and department-specific safety, confidentiality, values, policies and standards. Performs related duties as assigned.
Associate’s degree or equivalent from a two-year college, or technical school required.
Acute Therapy: None required. One (1) – two (2) years of experience preferred. Will consider exceptional new graduate candidates.
LICENSURE OR CERTIFICATION : Certification as a PT Assistant required. Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification required. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES : Knowledge of the types of physical therapy programs used to assist in the restoration of function in a patient, or prevent a disability.
Skill in the ability to demonstrate, or lead a patient in the performance of a therapy regimen. Skill in following directions and reporting back any issues, or concerns the patient may be encountering.