JOB SUMMARY:

Assists with physical therapy programs to restore function in patients with disabilities, disorders, and injuries. Carries out treatment plans for a variety of patient diagnoses as per the Physical Therapists, making recommendations or changes when appropriate. Supports research programs involving physical therapy.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:

• Successful completion of two year college program for Physical Therapy Assistants approved by the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA).
• One year of previous experience as a Physical Therapy Assistant preferred.

LICENSURE, CERTIFICATION, and/or REGISTRATION:

• Current license in the State of North Carolina to practice as a Physical Therapy Assistant.
• CPR/BLS certification from the American Heart Association

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Carries out physical therapy programs as planned and directed by the physical therapist in clinical and research applications. This involves training patients in exercises, ambulation, and activities of daily living.

2. Collects clinical assessment scores, radiographic scores and assessments, and health related quality of life information.

3. Performs a wide range of tests and evaluations in a clinical or research setting. This involves evaluation of developmental levels and functions, gross and fine motor skills, neurological-reflex testing, equilibrium, coordination, protective responses, muscle strength, muscle tone, joint range of motion, daily living skills and activities, and perceptual motor skills and defects. Screens for orthopaedic and physical defects, genetic anomalies, or idiopathic.

4. Maintains supplies and equipment.

5. Assists with research protocol and treatment development; ensures quality control of data. Develops and writes educational materials.

6. Participates in staff meetings, forums, committees, and in-service training activities.

7. Performs other related duties incidental to the work described herein.

SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS:

• Good physical strength and condition
• Research experience
• Ability to work with infant, pediatric, adolescent, adult and older adult patients

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Exposure to hazardous substances, infectious diseases, body fluids
• Subject to many interruptions
• Contact with patients, family members, visitors, coworkers and medical staff under a wide variety of circumstances