What are the responsibilities and job description for the PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT position at OAA Orthopaedic Specialists?
Summary: The Physical Therapist Assistant will provide the highest level of care by administering physical therapy treatment to patients, working under the direction of and as an assistant to the Physical Therapist.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following.
• Administers active and passive manual techniques.
• Instructs, motivates and assists patients to learn and improve functional activity.
• Observes patients during treatments and compiles and evaluates data on patients’ responses to treatments and progress and reports orally or in writing to Physical Therapist.
• Fits patients for, adjusts, and trains patients in use and care of orthopaedic braces, prostheses, and supportive devices such as crutches, canes, walkers, and wheelchairs.
• Confers with members of Physical Therapy staff and other health team members to evaluate patient information and coordinating treatment programs.
• Provides orientation to new Physical Therapy Assistants.
• Directs and offers instruction to Physical Therapy Aides.
• Performs clerical duties as assigned including taking inventory, ordering supplies, answering telephone, taking messages, and completing forms.
• Measures patient’s range-of-joint motion, length, and girth of body parts, and vital signs to determine effects of specific treatments or to assist Physical Therapist to compile data for patient evaluations.
• Other duties may be assigned.
Education and/or Experience:
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations
Must be licensed by the State Board of Physical Therapy. Maintain current CPR and AED certification.
New Grads will be considered.
Skills and Abilities:
- Ability to multitask
- Flexible team player
- Computer database software and Internet software
- Problem-solving skills
- Ability to communicate effectively and develop and maintain effective relationships
- Manual therapy skills
- Prior customer service helpful
- Bi-lingual/Spanish skills for interpreting a plus
- Must be able to assist patients on tables and equipment