Physical Therapy Assistant- Acute Care (Ortho Service Line)

Major Responsibilities:
Patient Assessment
Acts as an assistant to the Physical Therapist during the performance of assessments.

Consults with a licensed PT in interpreting the results of reassessments as necessary according to the complexity of the case.

Provision of Patient Care
Plans appropriate treatment programs under the supervision of a PT, for patients of all ages (depending on area of assignment), based on physician referral, evaluation results, patient/family goals and interests, sound clinical judgment and other pertinent available information.

Administers daily treatment for patients ensuring that the treatment plan is age-appropriate and adjusted as necessary under the direction of the PT in order to meet the changing needs of the patient. Responsible for maintaining a productive schedule, with an average of 6.0 out of 8 hours per day scheduled for direct clinical care. Informs coordinator of openings and/or cancellations in their daily schedule.

Successfully completes all competency assessments pertaining to provision of patient care.

Determines the need for appropriate supplemental group therapy and requests that it be scheduled accordingly.

Communicates with team members, other professionals, family members and caregivers for the purpose of sharing information that will assist in achieving optimum care for the patient. Establishes effective rapport with patients of all ages depending on assignment.

Selects appropriate assistive devices for patients and provides appropriate instruction in the maintenance and use of such equipment.

Patient/Family/Community Education

Provides education to the patient and family, or significant others based on patient needs. Identifies and addresses learning readiness, preferences and learning barriers.

2 May be required to participate in community education programs.

Discharge Planning

Consults with other team members to determine when the patient will be ready for discharge.

Recognizes the need for termination of treatment and effectively plans discharge which may include establishing home treatment plans, arranging for equipment or devices, and/or arranging for continued services.

Documentation
Completes all documentation according to departmental policy.

Daily Operations
Performs other duties such as billing for all services rendered on the day delivered, maintaining a clean work environment, and serving on departmental committees and in program development efforts as appropriate.

Promotes patient safety by reporting issues through established channels and participating in safety initiatives as requested.

Participates in the continuous quality improvement projects.

Follows appropriate safety and infection control measures pertaining to patient care, equipment and the general working environment. Promptly reports any problems to their coordinator, and follows appropriate Advocate policies and procedures.

Actively participates in departmental meetings, committees, in-services and continuing education programs.

Delegates patients to assistive personnel with direction from the supervising Physical Therapist.

Supervises physical therapy assistant interns at the request of the supervisor after completing one year of clinical experience.

Complies with organizational and departmental patient satisfaction initiatives. Routinely meets the needs and expectations of patients and their families.

Upholds the policies and procedures of Advocate Health Care / Advocate Christ Medical Center.

Licensure:
Physical Therapist Assistant

Education/Experience Required:
• Associates degree from an accredited program for physical therapy assistants

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required:
• Good interpersonal and communication skills • Basic knowledge of treatment skills
• Eligible for licensure to practice in Illinois • CPR Certification BCLS

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:
• May be exposed to hazardous materials and life-threatening diseases; direct contact with body fluid. •Pushing, pulling, lifting, transferring patients. Ability to perform heavy lifting(lifting 50 to 100 pounds occasionally and 25 to 50 pounds frequently and 10 to 20 pounds constantly). • Ability to assist, escort, transfer, and respond to patient needs for extended periods of time. • Required to work approximately 1 weekend per month and/ or evenings. Required to work a minimum of one of the 6 observed holidays or the day prior to or after the holiday per calendar year.

This job description indicates the general nature and level of work expected of the incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the incumbent. Incumbent may be required to perform other related duties.