Physical Therapy Assistant

The Fayetteville, NC Coastal VA Health Care System has an opening for one Physical Therapy Assistants to work within the Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Service.

PTAs at this level apply advanced practice skills to treat complex patients. PTAs possess an advanced level of clinical competence and serve as a SME in specialty practice areas. They serve as a subject matter expert in a rehabilitation program such as, but not limited to, geriatrics, amputee, brain injury, cardiac rehabilitation, orthopedics, neurological, safe patient handing, or any other functional debilitative conditions. They possess advanced practice skills and experience with a wide range of patient complexity. They apply advanced methodologies to a vast array of functional impairments and patients. They independently recommend and apply evidence-based treatment approaches within the plan of care. Functions of Scope of Assigned Duties: The PTA serves as an active member of the multidisciplinary treatment team for assigned patients. Monitors individual patient's medical condition through chart review, interviews of patient/family and physical signs and symptoms. Implements a comprehensive treatment plan and routinely charts progress towards goals. Measures and records patient's joint range of motion, muscle strength and length/girth of body parts. Monitors vital signs to determine the effects of specific treatments and to compile data for therapist review. Observes patients during treatments and compiles data on their response to treatments. Reports patient responses to treatment and changes in the patient's condition both orally and in writing to the appropriate physical therapist. Administers physical therapist's plan of care to patients under the direction of a physical therapist. Works with a high degree of independence implementing the plan of care. Treatment procedures are varied with many being specialized and complex in nature. Treatment provided by the PTA includes but is not limited to gait training, peripheral joint mobilization, therapeutic exercise, massage, all electrical modalities, traction, TENS, and patient/family education. Instructs and assists patients in learning and improving functional activities such as pre ambulation, transfers and daily living skills. In collaboration with physical therapist, uses sound judgment, displays a high level of quality performance, depth of understanding and the ability to adapt treatment procedures to the individual patient's needs. Recognizes significant adverse reactions to treatment and makes necessary changes as required under the guidance of the physical therapist. Modifies treatment approaches within the scope of the established treatment plan to reflect the patient's need for services. Patients often have complex medical problems, some with psychiatric overlay that require close monitoring. Services a variety of (in & out-patients) in need of physical therapy. Patients may be critically ill, requiring that incumbent pay close attention and monitors vital signs for incremental changes in the patient's condition. Assumes responsibility for the proper order of the treatment area, such as sanitation, safe use of mechanical equipment and its proper working order. Inventories supplies of the PT clinic and submits supply orders to purchasing agent, as required. Maintains clinical competence through giving and receiving continuing education at the service and medical center level. Assist patients in scheduling for treatment, according to patient's plan of care. Coordinates schedules with other members of the treatment team. Occasionally assists with fitting orthotic/prosthetic items if fitter is not available. ALL OTHER DUTIES ASSIGNED. Work Schedule: Monday - Friday; 8:00a.m - 4:30p.m, alternate schedules will be considered Telework: Ad-hoc Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 000000 Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized

You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job. Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959. Must be proficient in written and spoken English. Subject to background/security investigation. Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process. Acceptable form(s) of identification will be required to complete pre-employment requirements (https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents). Effective May 7, 2025, driver's licenses or state-issued identification cards that are not REAL ID compliant cannot be utilized as an acceptable form of identification for employment. Must pass pre-employment physical examination. Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). Complete all application requirements detailed in the "Required Documents" section of this announcement. As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you will be required to serve a 1 or 2-year trial period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider: your performance and conduct; the needs and interests of the agency; whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service. Upon completion of your trial period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.