PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONAL COMPETENCIES:

Demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to provide service/care appropriate to the age of the patients served, in accordance with Hawarden Regional Healthcare standards. Maintains a working knowledge of applicable Federal, State and local laws and regulations, the Compliance Accountability Program, Code of Ethics, and HRH policies and procedures, including all provisions of the Health Insurance Portability Act of 1996 (HIPAA). In order to ensure adherence in a manner that reflects honest, ethical and professional behavior by implementing the organizational vision, values, and mission.

2.

Performs and interprets the results of selected measurement procedures (e.g., tests for joint range of motion and gross strength of muscle groups and measurement of length and girth of body parts) in consultation with the evaluating PT.

3.

Reviews the patient’s EHR and obtains current information (prior to each treatment session when needed) and recognizes information that may require alteration of physical therapy treatment for less frequently referred diagnoses. Incorporates new information into the treatment session. Participates in co-treat & G-code requirements with Staff PT according to therapy policy and procedures.

4.

Modifies or adjusts treatment within the limits of the plan of care based on the patient’s reactions. Informs evaluating therapist immediately when unexpected responses to treatment occur. Seeks guidance when necessary. Assists Staff PT in interpreting subjective and objective information, and provides suggestions for treatment when requested.

5.

Recognizes abnormal physiological changes and reports them to the evaluating therapist and other appropriate personnel. Seeks guidance for questionable situations from evaluating PT, documents appropriately and initiates immediate intervention.

6.

Instructs patient, nursing staff, and family regarding patient’s participation in PT programs and involves patient and family as appropriate in treatment and discharge planning. Participates in individual patient care conferences, team conferences, clinics, and rounds, giving input into the patient’s plan of care.

7.

Makes recommendations for discharge, assesses community resources available to the patient, and educates the family and patient regarding these resources. Recommends equipment that may help meet the patient’s needs. Assists in obtaining the most appropriate and cost-effective materials for the patient.

8.

Uses appropriate modalities that include but are not limited to heat, cold, light, water, sound, and electricity and uses therapeutic exercise as well as exercise equipment.

9.

Independently organizes a schedule to reflect patient care priorities and overall department needs and responsibilities and carries a caseload that reflects the unit’s productive standards.

10.

Is responsible for legible, accurate written or electronic documentation that includes but is not limited to progress notes, home program instructions, statistical reporting, charge forms, and interagency forms.

11.

Is responsible to check that equipment is in working condition and meets departmental standards prior to patient treatment. Reports defective equipment to supervisor promptly, and initiates repair when requested.

12.

Participates in orienting, teaching, guiding and providing feedback in evaluating the performance of volunteers, students, and physical therapy technicians.

13.

Recognizes and communicates issues/occurrences utilizing established lines of authority, and assists in identifying ways to resolve variances or unacceptable outcomes.

14.

Must have a general working knowledge of computers and department specific software (i.e. Healthstream, internet, etc.)

15.

Actively participates in departmental meetings, committees, conferences, and in services. Is knowledgeable of and complies with Safety and Infection Control Policies & Procedures. Participates in Continuous Quality Improvement activities as requested. Keeps up to date on new procedures and research. Maintains confidentiality of information pertaining to clients, physicians, employees and HRH business.

16.

Completes all mandatory training such as Healthstream, The Patient Experience, Safe Choices, Crucial Conversations and any other training as designated by Administration.

17.

Performs other duties and responsibilities as assigned.