Physical Therapist Assistant

Title: PHYSICAL THERAPY AST

Last Updated: 12/20

Job Code: 3621

Group: UAW-Technical

Pay grade: 12

Department #: 7204

Department Name: REHAB UNIT THERAPY

Overtime Status: Non-Exempt

Position reports directly to: Supervisor & Manager, Rehabilitation Unit

Age of Population Served:

N/A

All

Neonate (birth to 1 month)

Pediatric (infant to 17 years)

Adult (18 to 64 years)

Geriatric (65 years and up)

General Purpose of Job:

Performs physical therapy services under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist. Keeps treatment skills updated through continuing education, evidence based research and program development. Performs job responsibilities in accordance with the program's strategic objectives and goals to carry out organizational strategic objectives.

Essential Duties:

This job description is intended to cover the minimum essential duties assigned on a regular basis. Associates may be asked to perform additional duties as assigned by their leader. Leadership has the right to alter or modify the duties of the position.

• Provide prescribed physical therapy treatment to patients under the supervision of the physical therapist. Such areas of treatment include range of motion, strength, tone, posture, gait, orthotic or prosthetic fit, sensorimotor function, massage, joint mobilization, exercises etc.
• Employ principles of teaching and learning to educate patients and their families in the knowledge and skills that promote functional restoration of mobility.
• Document all care given, and the patient response in the patient's medical record.
• Collaborate with the interdisciplinary team in assessing, planning, implementing, and evaluating the patient's care, rehabilitation programs, and related rehabilitation activities.
• Maintain professional standards by participating in inservices and hospital / department requirements.
• Delegates, directs, and supervises implementation of care to PCT, and physical therapy assistant students.
• Act as a resource to other disciplines in proper body mechanics, positioning techniques, early mobility, and transfer techniques.
• Provides verbal and/or written feedback to the physical therapist regarding all significant observations or changes in the patient's condition, reaction and response to treatment.
• Assists the physical therapist in determining equipment and supply needs and may participate in the acquisition and inventory of these items.
• Document patient's status and progress according to established internal/external time standards and adherence to reimbursement guidelines.
• Meets or exceeds program productivity standards.
• Provides discipline specific coverage (following cross training) within Sparrow Health System as requested.

Required Responsibilities of the Associate:

• Demonstrates knowledge and maintains and respects patient right to privacy by following the HIPAA Privacy and Security policies and procedures.
• Adheres to ICARE values and standards of behavior (Innovation, Compassion, Accountability, Respect, Excellence).
• Role model behaviors that value the diversity of our associates, patients and customers and supports creating an environment that is inclusive, welcoming and respectful.
• Communicates with patients, families and customers using AIDET (Acknowledge, Introduce, Duration, Explanation, Thank).
• Works in a safe manner and promptly reports any hazards identified in the work environment or related to assigned responsibilities.
• Contributes to quality improvement by identifying problems and seeking solutions.
• Promotes patient/family satisfaction where possible.
• Participates in departmental efforts to monitor and report customer service.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience Required:

Education:

• Associate Degree from an accredited Physical Therapy Assistant Program.

License / Certification:

• State of Michigan PTA licensure.
• Possess and maintain CPR certification to meet department/program protocol (within 6 months of hire).

Skills & Abilities:

• Effective written and verbal communication skills, strong interpersonal skills, ability to perform multiple tasks and adapt to changing work situations.
• Able to demonstrate the knowledge and skill necessary to provide care based on physical, psycho/social, educational, safety and related criteria, appropriate to the age of the patients serviced in his/her assigned service area as related to the principle duties and responsibilities of the position. The skills and knowledge needed to provide such care might be gained through education, training and experience.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience Preferred:

• Two-years' experience in inpatient rehabilitation.
• Experience in physical disabilities.

Physical Aspects of this Position:

Work Environment:

• Usually work as part of a team under the direction of a supervisor and/or manager. May supervise physical therapy assistant students, volunteers and rehab support staff. Physical Therapist Assistants often work with physicians, nurses, social workers, physical/occupational/speech therapists and other specialists.
• Physical Therapist Assistants experience the sights, sounds, odors, and patient behaviors typically found in places that treat the sick and injured.
• May be subject to emotional lability of medical guests and/or family members.
• Usually work indoors in well-lighted, comfortable, well-equipped surroundings.
• The job can be physically and mentally exhausting.
• In addition to standing for long periods, must move equipment and help patients turn, stand, or walk. Some exercise techniques are tiring for both the patient and the Therapist.
• Typically, Therapists work an 8-hour day, 40-hour week.
• Occasional travel (for community outings)
• Variable hours according to clinic hours.