Physical Therapist Assistant - Outpatient

Overview

The Physical Therapist Assistant treats patients primarily in the outpatient physical therapy setting following an established plan set by the physical therapist. Provides advice and education to patient, family and caregivers. Regularly assesses patients clinical signs and symptoms to determine effectiveness of treatment as well as need to modify goals or treatment or plan discharge in conjunction with physical therapist. Provides accurate and timely documentation and coordinates care with other health care professionals. Effectively participates in clinical site education through in-services and clinical education of assigned students.

Responsibilities

Utilizes clinical reasoning to determine course of action within a specific context and with the ability to anticipate outcomes guided by a framework of previous experience and knowledge of best practices. Provides comprehensive clinical care to patients using a human movement system framework. 

 

Identifies and documents patient’s current functional limitations  that are necessary for self-maintenance, learning, work, and other similar meaningful activities. Communicates patient status with physical therapist and notifies of change in patient status, plateau in progress or achievement of rehab goals.

 

Completes all required documentation including daily notes in a timely manner in compliance with department standards. 

 

Effectively communicates with all members of the interprofessional medical team as well as patients and families utilizing strategies to clearly  and accurately disseminate  and receive information that considers situational needs and results in intended outcomes.

 

Quality improvement - Performs routine chart review and provides appropriate staff education in conjunction with findings.  Participates in department Performance Improvement Project.

 

Attends staff meetings, employee forums and participates in surveys and committees as requested. 

 

Effective participation in clinical site education through in-services and clinical education with PTA students as assigned. Contributes to continuing education of other staff members by developing and delivering in-service presentations after attending a CEU based learning

opportunity.

 

Actively participate in community outreach including participation in lectures, classes and in-services. Serves as a resource in community based education.

Qualifications

Education: Graduate from an accredited Physical Therapy Assistant programExperience: One to two years related experienceLicenses & Certifications: Current California State License, Current BLS Certification, professional association membership a plus Required Skills & Knowledge: Position requires excellent written and verbal communication skills, strong organizational, problem solving, and analytical skills, strong management and interpersonal skills, ability to manage priorities and workflow, flexibility and a willingness to work with constantly changing priorities with enthusiasm.  Ability to understand and adhere to established policies, procedures, and protocols, Commitment to excellence and high standards. Good judgment with the ability to make timely and sound decisions,  Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions, Able to work collaboratively with multiple health professionals in a busy and complex environment using tact, diplomacy, and discipline, Strong charting/documentation skills,  Ability to effectively communicate with a diverse population; Bilingual in English and Spanish is required.

Compensation

Actual compensation takes into account several factors including but not limited to a candidate’s experience, education, skills, licensure and certifications, department equity, training and organizational needs. Eligible roles also qualify for a comprehensive benefits package.

Minimum:

USD $33.38

Maximum:

USD $45.89