Physical Therapist Assistant

Job Summary

The Physical Therapist Assistant will help Physical Therapists provide physical therapy treatments and procedures. In accordance with state laws, they may assist in the development of treatment plans, carry out routine functions, document progress, and modify treatments within the scope of plans established by a physical therapist.

• Instruct, motivate, safeguard, and assist patients as they practice exercises or functional activities.
• Observe patients during treatments to compile and evaluate data on their responses and progress, providing results to the physical therapist via notes or in person.
• Collaborate with physical therapy staff and others to discuss and evaluate patient information for planning, modifying, and coordinating treatment. Communicate with caregivers and family members about patient therapeutic activities and treatment plans.
• Transport patients to and from treatment areas, lift and transfer them according to positioning requirements, and secure patients onto therapy equipment.
• Administer active and passive manual therapeutic exercises, therapeutic massage, aquatic physical therapy, and heat, light, sound, and electrical modality treatments such as ultrasound.
• Measure patients’ range of joint motion, body parts, and vital signs to determine effects of treatments or for patient evaluations.
• Monitor operation of equipment and record use of equipment and administration of treatment in a timely manner.
• Fit patients for orthopedic braces, prostheses, and supportive devices such as assistive devices.

• Knowledge and skills to care for patient needs of the SNF population.
• Problem‑solving skills to successfully perform the job.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong customer service orientation.
• Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with other employees, patients, and family members.
• Ability to travel as needed to perform the job.

• Associate’s degree from an accredited physical therapy program.
• Current license from the state Board of Physical Therapy Examiners.
• Proficiency with all applicable state, federal, and professional standards.

• Prolonged periods of standing and walking.
• Requires lifting, positioning, pushing, and/or transferring patients.
• Frequent reaching, stooping, bending, kneeling, and crouching.