EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Completion of a Physical Therapy Assistant program accredited by the APTA
• Licensed by the Physical Therapy Board of California as a Physical Therapy Assistant
• Current CPR or Basic Life Support certification

QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS:

• Strong communication skills with staff, physicians and patients
• Experience with outpatient orthopedic physical therapy
• Good analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to prioritize work flow in a fast-paced environment

RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:

1. Accountable for participation in direct patient care and performing patient treatments under the general supervision of a Physical Therapist

• Performs treatment in accordance with the physical therapist’s assessment and treatment plan
• Performs treatment in a safe and timely manner while recognizing and addressing the needs of the patient
• Individualizes teaching based on the learning needs and abilities of the patient and assures the understanding of instructions for self or home care
• Recognizes, reports and corrects unsafe patient practices
• Independently utilizes complex equipment
• Provides appropriate documentation in the patient’s medical record of each physical therapy visit
• Assists in adjusting schedules to accommodate changes in department caseload
• Maintains open communication with the physical therapists regarding the patients’ progress and status

1. Accountable for ensuring maintenance and care of the department as an orderly, clean and safe work environment

• Maintains operation and cleanliness of physical therapy equipment according to safety and infection control standards
• Plans, communicates and cooperates with other department personnel in maintaining an orderly, clean, safe work area
• Reports any defective equipment to the PT director
• Maintains proper levels of supplies and equipment in designated areas
• Completes additional job tasks as assigned by the PT Director

1. Accountable for participating in quality review programs

• Attends department in-services, meetings and educational sessions
• Works with staff in development of professional skills and new programs to improve patient care outcomes