Physical Therapy Assistant

GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES:  Applies physical therapy treatments to patients* or assists in their application in a health care facility under the supervision of a qualified Physical Therapist; does related work as required.

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: This is a skilled sub-professional position involving responsibility for assisting a Physical Therapist with the treatment and prevention of neuromuscular or musculoskeletal disabilities by the application of direct physical therapy procedures to patients.  The work is performed under the supervision of a qualified Physical Therapist who evaluates the patient, develops the treatment plan and designates specific responsibility to the assistant.  A Physical Therapist is readily available at all times for direction and assistance.  Supervision may be exercised over one or more Physical Therapy Aides.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES:

• Applies heat, cold, electricity, light, water treatments, massage, therapeutic exercises, training in phases of ambulation and other activities of daily living according to the Physical Therapist’s direction;
• Observes, records and reports patients’ reactions to treatments and programs;
• Prepares, sets up and maintains physical therapy treatment areas and equipment;
• Assists with therapeutic activity programs in the Residential Health Care Facility;
• Provides for an observes safety precautions during all phases of treatment;
• Confers periodically with the Physical Therapist regarding all facets of patient care and related activities;
• Participates with other personnel in the formulation of the patients’ total health care plans when appropriate;
• Inventories, cleans, stores and otherwise maintains supplies and equipment;
• Supervises Physical Therapy Aides as directed by the Physical Therapist;
• Performs record keeping functions related to maintenance and execution of the physical therapy program.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS:

Working knowledge of the principles, techniques and terminology of physical therapy; working knowledge of the operation and maintenance of apparatus and equipment used in physical therapy; working knowledge of human anatomy and physiology; working knowledge of the concepts and scope and limitations of physical therapy; sufficient physical strength to support and lift adult patients; ability to follow oral and written instructions; ability to plan and supervise the work of aides; skill in observing and recording patients’ responses to treatments; physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:  Either:

1. Graduation from an associate degree program for Physical Therapy Assistants registered by the New York State Education Department; or
2. Completion of a Physical Therapy Assistant program approved by the New York State Health Department.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ACCEPTANCE OF APPLICATIONS:

Certification and current registration by the New York State Education Department as a Physical Therapy Assistant.