POSITION TITLE: Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)
Location: Hospital (Inpatient)
Status: FT Non-Exempt
Position Summary: The physical therapist assistant will progress and administer physical therapy treatment for patients suffering from injuries, muscle, nerve, joint, and bone diseases to restore function, relieve pain, and prevent disability.
Essential Functions
- The physical therapist assistant sets up monitors for treatment of patients which may include heat, ice, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, traction, etc., as specified by the physical therapist. This may include assisting patient to treatment table and assistance with dressing/undressing.
- The physical therapist assistant observes patients prior to treatment and monitors patient status and reaction to treatment. Reports to therapist as necessary.
- The physical therapist assistant assists the Physical therapist as needed with monitoring exercise programs (isokinetic, free weights, pulleys, and mat exercises) established by therapist. Reports to therapist patient reaction to exercises. Also assists therapists with positioning, transferring, or gait training with patient. Must be able to safely demonstrate proper body mechanics, exercises, and equipment techniques.
- The physical therapist assistant administers massage, manual therapy, and exercises to Improve and maintain functions. Instructs, motivates, and assists patient to perform various physical activities such as exercises, ambulation, AOL's, and in use of supportive devices, i.e., crutches, canes, and braces.
- Records treatment, responses to treatment, subjective remarks, and progress in patients' charts. Writes progress notes using appropriate S.OAP. format. All daily notes must be accurate and done by the end of the day (shift).
- Instructs (and gives written copy) patient and family in treatment procedures to be continued at home. Reviews family's and patient's competency of procedures.
- Communicates with physicians and their staff by phone or in writing to obtain additional patient information. Suggests revisions in treatment per therapist order. Reports inconsistencies/problems about patient treatment program with co-workers and does utilization and review of patient charts as necessary.
- Takes action/perceives reaction when patient is in distress. Must be able to monitor responses such as appearance, color, temperature, respiratory rate, and palpate pulse. Capable of verbal and/or written communication with patients, co-workers, and patient families.
- Tours students, observers and volunteers through the department explaining routines and equipment within their areas of expertise, including training in the use of the whirlpool, disinfection system, wrapping a hot/cold pack, transporting a patient, and assisting a patient into the treatment rooms when instructed by the department Chief Physical Therapist/designee.
- Notifies designee of the need to order supplies or special purchase items.
- Directs and assists outpatients through treatment area and assists with undressing or dressing activities, and if necessary, educates the patient on proper way to perform this task.
- Actively participates in the quality improvement process and creates changes or suggests improvements.
- Helps promote a friendly atmosphere that fosters effective patient care and professionalism.
- Utilizes effective communication skills with physicians, patients, families, insurance carriers, case workers, and co-workers. Orients, instructs, and directs the work activities of technicians and students.
Qualifications - Associate degree in Physical Therapy from an accredited program
- Current physical therapy assistant licensure to practice in Florida
- Individual must possess current physical and mental abilities to perform physical labor, which includes up to 8 hours of ambulation, assisting patients from wheelchairs, application of physical agents, and cognitive insight to think quickly and constructively
- Ability to read and write fluently in English
- Must be Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certified.
- Hospital Experience Preferred
If you are interested in interviewing for this role, please go to to apply directly from our website.
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Compensation details: 25-30
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