Physical Therapist Assistant

KEY JOB RESPONSIBILITIES: Provide skilled Physical Therapy services on an intermittent basis to patients in their homes under the direction from the Registered Physical Therapist.

Additionally, the Physical Therapist Assistant will:

• Under the direction of a Registered Physical Therapist (PT) provide patient services which have been delegated by the PT.
• Under the supervision of the physical therapist, assist in evaluation and development of a rehabilitation plan of care and in periodic re-evaluation as required.
• Participate in the preparation of clinical and daily progress notes, all notes are reviewed by the PT and submitted weekly, also prepares periodic summary reports.
• As directed, perform routine strengthening and therapeutic exercises and assists the patient with the use of self-help devices.
• Together with the PT, instruct the patient and family and assists in teaching exercise programs to the patient and family.
• Identify possible ineffective drug therapy or adverse reactions, significant side effects, drug allergies, and contra-indicated medication and reports same to the PT.
• Observe and record activities and findings in the clinical record and reports to the PT and the physician the patient’s reaction to treatment and any changes in the patient’s condition.
• Consult with PT regarding the outcome of home visits and reports physical findings in written form.
• Under the supervision of the Physical Therapist, assist in evaluation and development of the rehabilitative plan of care in periodic re-evaluation as indicated.
• Instruct other health team personnel including, as appropriate, Home Health Aides, as well as family members with respect to certain phases of physical therapy, so that they may work with the patient.
• Write daily progress notes on patients, submit same weekly, and prepare periodic summary reports as indicated.
• Attend rehabilitation department staff meetings and case conferences.
• Participate with staff, patients, and physicians in discharge activities and assists the Physical Therapist in completing the Physical Therapy Discharge Summary.
• Confirm, on a weekly basis, the scheduling of visits with the Supervisor/Director of Nursing to coordinate Agency visits.
• Assume responsibility for self-development by continually striving to improve his/her health care knowledge through educational programs, attendance at workshops and conferences, active participation in professional and related organizations and individual research and reading.
• Assume other duties deemed appropriate and necessary by the PT and as designated by Registered Nurse Case Management and the Nursing Supervisor.
• Obtain a medical history, particularly as it relates to the present condition.
• Evaluate the patient, the patient’s significant other(s) and the home situation to determine what instruction will be required, what assistance will be available from the family in caring for the patient, and what other Agency and community services will be required.
• Assure that the physician’s orders are appropriate and discusses necessary changes.
• Help optimize the capital structure and support strategic initiatives.
• Maintains the agency’s mission, philosophy and core values.
• Ensures compliance with agency policies and procedures regarding operations/processes, including but not limited to those regarding patient care, patient complaints, incidents, safety and emergency management.
• Ensures compliance with policies and procedures regarding infection prevention, control, standard precautions, and infection identification reporting.
• The clinical record shall contain notes for each service provided. A clinical note will be completed for each visit made to a patient’s home (including private residence, assisted living facility, group homes or skilled nursing facility) within 48 hours of the visit.
• Always maintains patient confidentiality, including all HIPAA regulations.

Regulatory Requirements

• Licensed or registered in the State of Michigan.
• Must pass a criminal background check & MVR check.
• Completed health statement acknowledging ability to perform the duties of the position.
• Valid state driver’s license.
• Proof of current automobile insurance.
• Current CPR card; On-line CPR certification accepted; Hands-on CPR certification preferred.
• TB testing per agency policy; (1 or 2 step TB skin test within 12 months of hire & annual TB symptom screening thereafter).