JOB SUMMARY: Implements physical therapy plans and provides related services to program participants, under the guidance of a physical therapist.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
· Contributes to the physical therapist’s effectiveness by recommending options and courses of action and implementing physical therapy directives.
· Gathers information about participant health through interviews, observations and therapy histories.
· Communicates changes in participant status to interdisciplinary team members in person or by phone, noting changes in health records.
· Helps participants develop or regain physical and mental functioning.
· Helps participants adjust to disabilities by instructing, encouraging and assisting them with physical exercise and activities.
· Implements treatment programs that include ambulatory function and non-manual exercise.
· Instructs and coaches participants and caregivers in the use of assistive and supportive devices such as crutches, canes, prostheses and wheelchairs.
· Administers physical therapy treatments such as massage, traction, applying physical agents, moist packs, ultraviolet and infrared lamps, ultrasound and electrical stimulation.
· Promotes maximum participant independence by providing therapies according to individual capacity, intelligence and interest.
· Instructs participants, families and caregivers about home exercise programs.
· Assists in the management of home-bound participants through visits.
· Visits participants in the home as directed to initiate or modify adaptations and treatment.
· Participates in family conferences, team meetings, committees and work groups as required.
· Adheres to infection control policies and procedures.
· Ensures operation of equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements, following manufacturer’s instructions, troubleshooting malfunctions and calling for repairs.
· Participates in the coordination of a 24-hour care delivery system.
· Completes all documentation in the medical record as required.
· Acts within the scope of his or her professional certification.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
· Oral and written communication skills
· Interpersonal skills
· Computer skills
· Organizational skills
· Problem solving skills
· Record keeping and reporting skills SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: None. QUALIFICATIONS:
Graduate of a PTA curriculum approved by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education.
Licensed as a Physical Therapist Assistant by the Virginia Board of Physical Therapy.
One or more years of experience with a geriatric population.
Valid driver’s license, auto insurance and reliable transportation.
Demonstrated clinical competency with an elderly and disabled population. Must work well as part of a team.
Medically cleared for communicable diseases with up-to-date immunizations before participant contact. Criminal history records check at hire.
Drug screen at hire.
WORK SCHEDULE: This is a PRN position. Work hours will be established based on the needs of PACE participants with a particular focus on providing care to individuals in their homes. May include early morning, evening, or weekend hours as needed.