What are the responsibilities and job description for the Physical Therapy Assistant position at Nexus Health Systems Ltd?
Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) – PRN
Nexus Children's Hospital – Shenandoah | Shenandoah, TX
PRN | As Needed (Flexible Schedule)
Reports to: Director of Rehabilitation
About Nexus Children's Hospital – Shenandoah
Nexus Children's Hospital – Shenandoah is a 50-bed specialty inpatient hospital in north Houston providing advanced care for children and adults with complex medical and behavioral health needs.
Our campus includes:
16-bed ICU/Medical-Surgical Unit providing high-acuity medical care and recovery support.
34-bed Medical-Behavioral Unit serving patients with co-occurring medical and psychiatric conditions.
We specialize in treating brain and spinal cord injuries, chronic illnesses, neurobehavioral disorders, and adolescents with complex co-occurring diagnoses.
At Nexus Health Systems, we bridge medical and behavioral care so that no person falls through the cracks. Our programs deliver holistic, specialty-driven treatment that helps individuals achieve recovery, independence, and long-term success.
Position Summary
The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) provides direct therapeutic services under the supervision of a Licensed Physical Therapist (PT) to help patients regain mobility, balance, and independence.
As a PRN team member, the PTA supports the Nexus Rehabilitation Department by providing exceptional care to both pediatric and adult patients, ensuring continuity of services during periods of increased census, coverage needs, or patient demand.
This role blends hands-on therapy with compassionate, family-centered care — helping patients achieve their highest functional potential.
Key Responsibilities
Administer physical therapy treatments and interventions according to individualized care plans and PT supervision.
Deliver age- and diagnosis-appropriate therapy focused on functional mobility, strength, and safety.
Observe, document, and report changes in patient condition to the supervising PT, nursing staff, or Director of Rehabilitation.
Educate patients and families on home exercises, safe transfers, and adaptive equipment use to support continued progress after discharge.
Maintain strict compliance with all infection control, safety, and HIPAA policies.
Operate and maintain rehabilitation equipment, including ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and exercise devices.
Participate in interdisciplinary team meetings and discharge planning to ensure comprehensive patient care.
Accurately document treatment sessions, progress notes, and billing within the electronic health record (EHR).
Assist in obtaining durable medical equipment (DME) and adaptive aids for patient needs.
Supervise Rehabilitation Technicians and support therapy workflow as needed.
Serve as a clinical preceptor for PTA students from accredited programs when assigned.
Maintain department productivity standards while providing quality, individualized care.
Qualifications
Education
Graduate of an accredited Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program recognized by the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)
Experience
Minimum 6 months of clinical experience in a hospital or rehabilitation setting preferred
Pediatric experience strongly preferred
Licensure & Certifications
Current Texas Physical Therapist Assistant License – required
CPR / BLS Certification (AHA) – required
De-escalation or behavioral management training (SAMA, ABA, or PIP) – preferred
Must complete facility-required behavioral management and de-escalation training within 30 days of hire
Skills & Competencies
Strong knowledge of rehabilitation techniques, exercise protocols, and equipment use
Ability to deliver safe, effective interventions under licensed PT supervision
Excellent communication and observation skills within a multidisciplinary team environment
Empathy, patience, and professionalism when working with both pediatric and adult patients
Competent in clinical documentation and EHR use
Commitment to trauma-informed, patient-centered, and collaborative care
Our Core Values: GOPTIC
At Nexus, GOPTIC defines how we care for patients, families, and each other:
Genuine – We act with honesty, integrity, and empathy.
Ownership – We take responsibility for our actions and celebrate shared success.
Positivity – We create a hopeful, encouraging environment for every patient and family.
Teamwork – We collaborate across disciplines to achieve the best outcomes.
Innovation – We seek creative, evidence-based ways to promote healing and growth.
Compassion – We put our patients first, leading with kindness and understanding.
Before You Apply
Ask yourself:
Do you enjoy helping patients of all ages regain strength, mobility, and confidence?
Are you looking for a flexible PRN opportunity to make a meaningful impact?
Can you work collaboratively with therapists, nurses, and physicians?
Do you live the GOPTIC values every day?
If your answer is YES, we invite you to apply today and join the Nexus Children's Hospital – Shenandoah team — where we're mending minds, restoring movement, and empowering independence every day.