Physical Therapist Assistant

The Physical Therapist is responsible for performing initial patient evaluations, plans / implements treatment programs, monitors patient's progress towards treatment goals, directly communicates with referring physicians, and documents and completes daily charge tickets.

Job Relationships

Reports to the Director of Physical Therapy

Principal Responsibilities

Perform evaluation procedures including : range of motion, circumferential measurements of body parts, neurological and manual muscle testing, motor developmental assessment, and analysis of posture, gait, and functional activities.

Interpret evaluation results to determine the degree of impairment, aid in differential diagnoses, and assist in establishing and revising the specifics of treatment.

Plan treatment programs based upon the patient's complaint , physician referral, review of medical records, and evaluation results.

Set appropriate goals for treatment to relieve pain, restore function, and prevent disability.

Rule out contra-indications to treatment and recommend necessary changes.

Perform electrotherapy, hydrotherapy, cryotherapy, traction and massage techniques following established procedures and within limits set by patient condition and tolerance.

Administer therapeutic exercises to improve posture, strength, range of motion, coordination, and endurance.

Provide fitting and application of recommended orthotic devices.

Instruct patients in the use of assistive devices and physical therapy procedures to be continued at home.

Monitor the effects of treatment and modify techniques to achieve maximum benefit.

Document initial evaluation and progress report for patient's medical record.

Verbally report progress or changes in the patient's condition to the referring physician as appropriate.

Validate treatment given for accurate completion of the charge ticket.

Provide input or timely scheduling for patients.

Provide direction and supervision of Physical Therapy Assistants and other supportive personnel.

Maintain professional mannerism.

Maintain clean, neat, orderly work environment.

Attempt to provide for patient comfort and modesty.

Communicate tactfully in person or by telephone.

Economically utilize supplies.

Help to maintain equipment and notify the Director of problems.

Demonstrate knowledge of emergency procedures codes.

File incident reports for any event in which the individual or facility might be subject to liability.

Notify the Director of any situation, which warrants consideration beyond the Staff Physical Therapist's duties and responsibilities.

Perform other job duties as assigned.

Comply with the Springfield Clinic incident reporting policy and procedures.

Adhere to all OSHA and Springfield Clinic training & accomplishments as required per policy.

Provide excellent customer service and adhere to SC Way customer service philosophy.

Education / Experience

Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy.

Licenses / Certificates

Licensed by the State of Illinois.

Preferred to be a member of the American Physical Therapy Association but is not required.

CPR certification per American Heart Association guidelines required within 30 days of hire.

Working Environment

Extensive walking, standing, kneeling and heavy lifting.

PHI / Privacy Level

HIPAA1