Performs routine physical therapy treatments according to patient treatment plans under the direction of a licensed physical therapist
Documents findings, progress and instruction to patients and caregivers
Supervises rehabilitation technicians with regard to individual patient care
May assist with program development
May provide training and guidance to students and interns
Implements a physical therapy treatment program as described by a physical therapist’s written plan of care
Provides physical therapy services under the supervision of the PT, and treatments are modified only as allowed by the plan of care
Monitors patient’s condition and progress towards treatment goals
Motivates and instructs patient/caregiver using appropriate methods
Communicates effectively with the supervising physical therapist, patient/caregiver and other professional colleagues to include physicians and insurance companies
Manages time effectively
Documents appropriately in the medical record and completes other documentation duties accurately and efficiently
May serve as a clinical resource to colleagues, other health care professionals, or to the community in general
May serve as Clinical Instructor for PTA interns
Presents relevant special topics in professional literature at clinic meetings, grand rounds, conferences, university settings and meetings as delegated or requested by faculty
Ensures safe care of patients by adhering to policies, procedures and standards, within budgetary specifications
Requirements
Graduate of an accredited physical therapist assistant or a physical therapist program
Current or temporary license to practice as a Physical Therapy Assistant by the Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners or by the Physical Therapy Compact Commission
Current certification of Basic Life Support
Requires occasional/frequent lifting up to 75/100 pounds and carrying of up to 30 pounds
Prolonged standing; frequent walking, stooping and squatting
Fine hand dexterity, eye-hand coordination, the ability to receive oral and written communication, and to communicate verbally and in writing
Visual ability to monitor instruments, computers and equipment, recognize alphanumeric characters, distinguish colors and observe physical characteristics