Job Summary: PTA's work as part of a team to provide physical therapy services under the direction and supervision of the Physical Therapist. PTA’s implement selected components of patient/client interventions and treatments, obtains data related to the treatments provided, and makes modifications in selected treatments either to progress the patient/client as directed by the Physical Therapist or to ensure patient/client safety and comfort. PTA’s assist the Physical Therapist in the treatment of individuals of all ages, from newborns to the elderly who have medical problems or other health-related conditions that limit their ability to move and perform functional activities in their daily lives.

The Physical Therapist is responsible for the services provided by the PTA. The PTA administers treatments and physical agents as directed by the Physical Therapist, after the physical therapist has evaluated the patient. The Physical Therapy Assistant assists with restoration of patient functioning to prevent disability following injury, disease or physical disability. Assists patients to reach their maximum performance and level of functioning, while learning to live within the limits of their capabilities.

The Physical Therapy Assistant participates in operational aspects of the department, maintains performance improvement activities within the department and participates in CQI activities. Participates in all infection control, departmental equipment training, organizational safety and fire safety programs.

Regulatory Requirements:

• Holds current CPR certification.
• Must be a graduate of a CAPTE-accredited PTA program with an Associate’s Degree.
• Must have a current licensure from the Arizona State Board of Physical Therapy.

Language Skills:

• Ability to read and communicate effectively in English.
• Additional languages preferred.
• Strong computer skills, plus written and verbal skills.

Skills:

• Good computer knowledge.
• Good knowledge of physical medicine, physical therapy modalities, anatomy and physiology.
• Good knowledge of physical therapy machine operation, maintenance and repairs of same.

Physical Demands:

• For physical demands of position, including vision, hearing, repetitive motion and environment, see following description.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position without compromising client care.

I have received, read and understand the Position Description/Performance Evaluation above.