Physical Therapy Assistant

Job Summary

The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) provides physical therapy treatments to residents in a long-term care and skilled nursing facility under the direction and supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist. The PTA assists in implementing treatment plans designed to improve residents’ mobility, strength, balance, endurance, and functional independence while promoting safety and quality of life.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide physical therapy treatments to residents according to the treatment plan developed by the Physical Therapist.

• Assist residents with therapeutic exercises, mobility training, gait training, balance activities, and strengthening programs.

• Monitor resident response to treatment and report progress, concerns, or changes in condition to the supervising Physical Therapist.

• Document treatment sessions accurately and timely in accordance with facility policies and regulatory guidelines.

• Assist with resident transfers, ambulation training, and use of adaptive equipment.

• Educate residents, families, and caregivers on exercises, mobility techniques, and safety strategies as directed by the Physical Therapist.

• Maintain a safe and clean therapy environment.

• Participate in interdisciplinary team meetings and care planning as requested.

• Follow infection control procedures and facility safety policies.

• Assist in maintaining therapy equipment and treatment areas

Qualifications

• Graduate of an accredited Physical Therapist Assistant program.

• Current license as a Physical Therapist Assistant in the state of employment.

• Previous experience in long-term care or skilled nursing facility preferred but not required.

• Knowledge of rehabilitation techniques and therapy practices.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to work effectively as part of an interdisciplinary healthcare team.