The Physical Therapy Assistant, under the supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist, performs patient testing and/or procedures, administers a program of therapeutic exercise/treatment, and provides instruction and demonstration for patients. Additionally, the Assistant maintains accurate documentation on patient progress. May supervise PTA students.

Education :

Graduate of accredited physical therapy assistant program.

Special Skills :

Good interpersonal/human relations skills. Good oral/written communication skills. Good teamwork skills. Good critical thinking/decision making skills. Superior organizational skills.

Licensure/Cert:

Current Louisiana State licensed as Physical Therapy Assistant (temporary licensure allowed); BLS Certification Patient Care The Physical Therapy Assistant, under the supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist, performs patient testing and/or procedures, administers a program of therapeutic exercise/treatment, and provides instruction and demonstration for patients. Maintains accurate documentation on patient progress. May supervise PTA students. Demonstrates understanding of physical therapy evaluation and follows treatment plan as outlined by the P.T. Competently and safely carries out all assigned physical therapy treatment. Collects and documents objective data under direction of P.T. Accurately documents treatment record and progress notes according to hospital and department documentation procedures. Conducts patient and family education concerning treatment, safe use of equipment and home programs as identified in the physical therapist's plan of care. Notifies the physical therapist of new physician's orders and requests P.T. assessment before proceeding with treatment. Notifies physical therapist and requests reassessment and modification of treatment plan at least every 6th treatment day and when goals have expired. Effectively performs schedule board functions by promptly scheduling patients for treatment and effectively scheduling staff for maximum productivity and fair distribution of work. Notifies Physical Therapist of changes in patient's medical or functional condition. Regulatory/Quality Utilizes time to accomplish work in an efficient manner by consistently demonstrating direct patient care contact at a productivity level of at least 75% (24 billable units per day). Assumes personal responsibility for completing and maintaining competencies in all areas of department practice and takes initiative to enhance professional growth through educational programs, professional literature, in-services and workshops. Continuously engages in improving work processes that will facilitate the improvement of patient care. Interdisciplinary Teamwork Communicates effectively and maintains professional, cooperative relationships with all members of the healthcare team. Shows initiative in assisting co-workers. Knows and uses the designated chain of command to: a) Communicate work related concerns/questions b) Present solutions/options for department concerns. Participates on committees as assigned and consults with department Director concerning department input and effects of committee decisions on department function and budget. Other Duties as Assigned Effectively performs schedule board functions by promptly scheduling patients for treatment and effectively and scheduling staff for maximum productivity and fair distribution of work. Assists physical therapists in clinical education of physical therapist assistant students, providing mentoring and feedback on clinical performance. Demonstrates problem solving and good judgement. Accepts additional work assignments as assigned by Director, Team Leader, or other staff therapists. Consistently performs 12 organizational Service Standards focused on Values, Service and Quality.