Physical Therapy Assistant

Performs delegated treatment procedures such as therapeutic exercises to maintain and restore strength, endurance, coordination, and range of motion; gait training and functional training for transferring and wheelchair activities; manual techniques; and treatment procedures involving the use of therapeutic equipment, machines, and assistive or supporti Applies modalities such as hot and cold packs, paraffin, pool, infrared, diathermy, ultrasound, ultra-violet, and electrical stimulation to relieve pain or promote healing. Encourages and motivates patients to participate in the treatment program by discussing and explaining their treatment goals and objectives. Progresses patient through treatment program, deciding when to advance the patient to more difficult or strenuous activities, when to decrease to less difficult level of activity, or when to interrupt the treatment based upon patient's reaction and response to the treatment program. Demonstrates, trains, and directs patients in the use and care of wheelchairs, braces, canes, crutches, and other special equipment. Observes and assists with tests, under the guidance of a Registered Physical Therapist, to determine patient's functional level in performing activities of daily living. Observes reactions and responses of patients to physical therapy treatment and reports observations to Registered Physical Therapists, physicians, and allied health personnel in rounds and staff or discharge planning conferences. Writes progress notes in patients' physical therapy records noting reaction and response to the therapy treatment. Maintains accurate records of therapy treatments performed and the duration and frequency of treatments, which are reviewed and countersigned by the Registered Physical Therapist. Instructs members of other health disciplines in standard methods of performing such tasks as transfers, ambulation, and positioning of patients. Closely communicates and collaborates with a licensed physical therapist. Participates in educational programs and in-service meetings. Maintains established policies and procedures, objectives, quality assurance program, safety, environmental, and infection control standards.

WAGE: $23.63 - $29.28