Position Summary Under the supervision of a Physical Therapist, performs treatments and provides exercise instruction and demonstration for patients.  Assists the Physical Therapist during patient testing, evaluations, and complex procedures.  Carries out a program of corrective exercise and treatment for assigned patients, as determined by evaluation by a Physical Therapist.  Instructs patients on segments of the program, including proper use of wheelchairs, crutches, canes, braces, and prosthetic appliances and devices.  Conducts services in a variety of Med Center Health settings including acute care, outpatient, home health, skilled nursing facility, etc. Minimum Qualifications Work Experience Healthcare experience preferred.
Education Successful completion of a physical therapy assistant program at a school of physical therapy approved by the American Physical Therapy Association or the Council on Medical Education and Hospitals of the American Medical Association required.
Certifications/Licensure Licensed Physical Therapy Assistant (active or temporary) in the Commonwealth of Kentucky required. Job Specific Performance Standards The duties listed below are a summary of the major essential functions of this position. The position may require other duties, both major and minor, that are not mentioned, and specific functions may change from time to time.
  Administers medically prescribed physical therapy treatment for patients to restore function, relieve pain, and prevent disability under the direction of a physical therapist. Administers treatment to patients as prescribed such as exercises, modalities, electrical stimulation, etc. Instructs, motivates, and assists patients to improve functional activities, such as ambulation, transfers, and activities of daily living, etc. Monitors patients during treatment and reports progress in writing to physical therapist. Documents treatment, response, and progress in patient’s chart or enters information in computer. Instructs patient and family in treatment procedures to be conducted. Evaluates, fits, and adjusts prosthetic and orthotic devices and recommends modification. Confers with physician and other practitioners to obtain additional patient information, suggest revisions in treatment program, and integrate physical therapy treatment with other aspects of patient’s health care. Orients, instructs, and directs work activities of new assistants, aides, technicians, and students.