Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA)

Quick Facts

• Role: Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA)

• Setting: Outpatient and long-term care

Description

Provide supervised physical therapy treatment to promote prevention, remediation, and rehabilitation of acute and chronic physical and psychosocial dysfunction. Implement basic treatment programs based on the Physical Therapist’s evaluation and goals, administer therapeutic exercise and physical agent modalities, and adjust interventions based on patient response. Document treatment and progress while supporting a clean, safe environment.

Responsibilities

• Receive and interpret procedure requests from the Physical Therapist; plan and implement basic treatment programs

• Consult with the licensed Physical Therapist regarding complex or special problem cases

• Independently develop and modify therapeutic exercise regimens based on patient response

• Review patient data (including medical history) and assist in/implement treatment plans in consultation with the Physical Therapist

• Assist in development of specialized treatment plans, including long- and short-term goals

• Motivate Veterans and family members to participate in treatment and comply with indicated regimens and post-discharge activities

• Administer treatment procedures, including heat, cold, sound, electricity, and massage; provide complex therapeutic exercise

• Fit, adjust, and instruct patients on orthoses, prostheses, wheelchairs, and other mobility devices

• Vary procedures/positions and modify intervention environment, tools, and activities based on the patient’s response

• With prior approval, adapt technical procedures and approaches involving new or unusual treatment objectives

• Prepare written and oral reports for Physical Therapists and other professionals

• Complete required computerized documentation

• Maintain clean and safe work environment; perform safety checks, cleaning, stocking, and non-technical equipment maintenance

• Follow infection control and all other safety procedures

• Maintain competence through continuing education; assist with clinical education and supervision of student PTAs, volunteers, and other practitioners

• Attend department meetings and present inservice program or journal club information as required

• Perform other related duties to support the Physical Therapy department mission

Benefits

A career with the U.S. government provides a comprehensive benefits package. Eligibility depends on the type of position and work schedule.