The Physical Therapist Assistant is a licensed professional whom provides physical therapy services to the patient as prescribed by the ordering physician and determined by the evaluating Physical Therapist.

Licensure/Certification/Registry:

• Illinois licensed/licensure eligible as a Physical Therapist Assistant
• Certified in BLS CPR or complete certification within 30 days of employment

Experience:

Previous PTA experience preferred.

Other Knowledge/Skills/Abilities/Working Conditions-Physical Requirements & Atmosphere:

• Ability to work professionally, effectively, and efficiently in a team environment with customers, management, co-workers and physicians.
• Strong organizational skills a must.
• Strong verbal communication skills
• Must be able to multi-task effectively.
• General office, health care setting – exposure to infectious disease.
• Requires moderately heavy physical exertion on a regular and reoccurring basis such as assisting patients in transfer activities (wheelchair to bed, to tub, to commodes) and providing substantial support to individuals in ambulation therapy.
• Frequently required to stand, walk, reach with hands and arms, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
• Occasionally required to sit.
• Occasionally lift and/or move over 100 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities include close, peripheral, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

1. Carry out a program of treatment and education as determined by the evaluating Physical Therapist for assigned patients

1. Instruct patients on the segments of program including proper use of wheelchairs, crutches, canes, braces, prosthetic appliances and devices

1. Completes timely and accurate clinical documentation to include therapeutic approach as well as administrative/billing documentation

1. Treats patients and their families with respect and dignity

1. Identifies and addresses psychosocial, cultural, ethnic, and religious/spiritual needs of patients and their families/care givers

1. The clinician will need to demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to ages specific to the patient population for the clinician. This could include the following groups:  infants (0-12months), children (1 year – 12 years), adolescents (13 years -18 years), adult (18 years-65 years), older adults (65 years +). 

1. Assists in maintaining department policies, procedures, objectives, quality assurance, safety, environmental, and infection control programs

1. Assist in care and maintenance of department equipment and supplies

1. Attend and participates in meetings as required

1. Enhance professional development through participation in continuing education programs and in-service meetings

1. Meets productivity and utilization expectations as established by the facility.

1. May supervise rehabilitation aides, volunteers, and students in regards to patient care techniques and needs

1. Performs other related work as required or requested.

The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by incumbents of this job.  Incumbents may be requested to perform tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.