Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)

Job Description

Job DescriptionPhysical Therapist Assistant (PTA) – Long-Term Care Facility

Position Title: Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)
Department: Rehabilitation Services
Reports To: Physical Therapist (PT) / Director of Rehabilitation

Employment Type: Full-Time

Position Summary

The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) provides physical therapy services under the direction and supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist in a long-term care facility. The PTA assists residents in improving mobility, strength, balance, endurance, and functional independence while promoting safety and quality of life. The PTA works closely with residents, families, nursing staff, and the interdisciplinary care team to achieve rehabilitation goals.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Implement treatment plans developed by the supervising Physical Therapist.
• Provide therapeutic exercises, gait training, transfer training, balance activities, and mobility interventions.
• Assist residents with improving strength, coordination, range of motion, and functional mobility.
• Monitor resident responses to treatment and report progress or concerns to the supervising Physical Therapist.
• Document treatments, resident responses, and progress accurately and timely according to facility policies and regulatory requirements.
• Educate residents, families, and caregivers on prescribed exercises, mobility techniques, and safety measures.
• Assist with wheelchair positioning, adaptive equipment training, and use of assistive devices.
• Participate in interdisciplinary care conferences and team meetings as needed.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe therapy environment.
• Adhere to Medicare, Medicaid, state, federal, and facility regulations.
• Support fall prevention programs and resident mobility initiatives throughout the facility.
• Communicate effectively with nursing staff and other healthcare professionals regarding resident care.

Qualifications

• Graduate of an accredited Physical Therapist Assistant program.
• Current Physical Therapist Assistant license in the state of employment.
• CPR certification preferred.
• Previous experience in long-term care, skilled nursing, rehabilitation, or geriatric care preferred.
• Knowledge of physical therapy techniques, treatment procedures, and safety standards.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, kneel, and assist residents throughout the workday.
• Ability to transfer, position, and assist residents with mobility activities.
• Ability to frequently lift up to 50 pounds and occasionally more with assistance.
• Ability to work in a physically demanding healthcare environment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Understanding of geriatric rehabilitation and long-term care practices.
• Ability to follow treatment plans and clinical instructions provided by the Physical Therapist.
• Strong observation and documentation skills.
• Effective time management and organizational abilities.
• Ability to establish positive relationships with residents, families, and staff.
• Commitment to resident-centered care and maintaining resident dignity.

Work Environment

• Long-term care facility, skilled nursing facility, or rehabilitation center.
• Frequent interaction with elderly residents and healthcare professionals.
• Exposure to healthcare-related risks, including communicable diseases and bodily fluids.
• Fast-paced environment requiring flexibility and teamwork.

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