Physical Therapy Aide

Status: PRN Physical Therapy Aide
Job Description/Summary
PRIMARY FUNCTION
The Rehab Aide is a non-professional, non-licensed worker who has completed an on-the-job training
program. The Aide’s primary functions are to: (1) assist with patient related activities which are
predetermined for each patient and assigned by a Licensed Therapist, and (2) conduct
department-related activities which are necessary for the routine operation of the service.
RESPONSIBLE FOR
1. Safety of patient while he/she is receiving rehab services.
2. Transportation of patients when necessary.
3. Keeping a clean Therapy Department by changing linen on treatment tables, returning
equipment to its proper storage area, and light housekeeping (i.e., cleaning mats, tables, and
equipment).
4. Maintenance hydrotherapy (whirlpool).
5. Performing specific patient treatments under the supervision of a Licensed Therapist.
6. Performs related duties as assigned.
Special Demands: Must be able to accept responsibility and respect authority. Demonstrates good
judgement and common sense. Willingness to work under pressure. Must be able to accept
constructive criticism. Has a preference for working with people. Must be able to hold in
confidence all matters of a personal nature regarding the patient and/or his family coming to
his/her knowledge and to disclose such information only when it is in the best interest of the
patient. Must be able to work with individuals of all ages from neonates to geriatrics.
Physical Demands: Stands, turns, bends, stoops, lifts, climbs, and uses a great majority of physical
motion in performing day to day activities of work. Must be able to stand for extended periods of
time and do a great deal of walking without experiencing extreme fatigue. Lifting and carrying
equipment supplies, and materials up to 50 lbs. without help; over 50 lbs. with the help of
mechanical devices or other personnel.
QUALIFICATIONS
EDUCATION: Must have completed twelfth grade level of school and in-servicing training program.
EXPERIENCE: Experience is not required, but highly desirable.
WORK PERFORMED
AUTHORITY: Has authority to perform Rehab Aide duties. Works under the supervision of a
Licensed Therapist and Licensed Assistant.
PRIMARY DUTIES
1. The Rehab Aide shall not interpret the physicians, referrals, perform evaluative procedures,
assume responsibility for patient care, nor write periodic progress notes. He/she shall not initiate
treatment unless specifically directed to do so by a Therapist or Therapist Assistant.
2. Carries out treatment programs commensurate with his training for patients delegated to
him/her by a Physical Therapist or Therapist Assistant.
3. Under the supervision of a Therapist or Therapist Assistant, performs the following treatment
modalities:
a. Hydrocollator Packs
b. Ultrasound
c. Paraffin
d. Massage
e. Electrical Stimulation
f. Whirlpool
4. Assists Therapist or Therapist Assistant with performance of other treatment modalities as
needed.
5. Assists patients in safe practice of activities related to development of strength and endurance.
6. Assists patients in ambulatory training procedures.
7. Assists with transfers of patients as needed.
8. Assists in preparation of treatment:
a. Assist patient to undress and dress.
b. Assist patient with braces or splints.
c. Assembling equipment and accessories for treatment and return them to
their proper place.
9. Performs housekeeping duties including:
a. Procure and maintain supplies.
b. Keep department tidy by changing sheets and pillowcases.
c. Keep equipment clean and in proper placement in preparation for
treatment.
10. Assists with clerical duties including:
a. Assist in telephone answering.
b. Assist in reception.
c. Assist in filing.
11. All other duties as assigned.
GENERAL
SOURCE OF WORKERS: Recruited from Nurses Aides or Attendants within the medical field
or experience as a Physical Therapy Aide in another facility.