Physical Therapy Assistant (Modesto McHenry Specialty)

The Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) is responsible for implementing physical therapy services within the parameters of a treatment plan, provided by and with supervision of the Physical Therapist. The PTA will assist with modification of treatment techniques in accordance with patient responses to treatment.

This position will work at our McHenry Specialty Clinic in Modesto. This schedule is Monday - Friday, working 8:00am - 5:00pm.

• Direct and assist patients in the performance of activities related to development of strength, range of motion, endurance, activities of daily living, and motor skills; including therapeutic exercises, transfer training, prosthetic training, splinting and goniometric measurement

• Instruct and supervise patients in the use of assistive devices and equipment as indicated by the Physical Therapist

• Apply therapeutic modalities such as hydrotherapy, heat therapy, and electrotherapy as directed by Physical Therapist as indicated and authorized

• Monitor patient progress and suggest modifications to treatment plans and communicate to Physical Therapist

• Maintain accurate records of patient treatment; observe and record the reactions of patients to treatment; observe patients for contraindications to treatment

• Demonstrates effective communication and problem solving skills.

• Supports the mission, vision, values and strategy of Golden Valley Health Centers by providing excellent patient-centered treatment, care, and services.

• Executes physical therapy programs tailored to each patients needs.

• Under the direction of the Physical Therapist implements the individualized plan of care to decrease or eliminate disability, increase or maintain capability for independence, and develop function to a maximum level.

• Guide patients and caregivers in the use of adaptive devices and therapeutic, creative and self-care activities for improving function.

• Evaluate the effectiveness of treatment and makes recommendations to modify goals as necessary.

• Attend clinics, case conferences, staff meetings, and in-service trainings; provide in-service training to nursing and educational personnel and other services as required

• Record and sign treatments in the patient's health record.

• Assists the Physical Therapist to ensure that required equipment and supplies for the physical therapy program are available or ordered as needed.

• Maintain and follow established departmental policies and procedures, objectives, quality assurance program, safety, environmental and infection control standards.

• Perform other related duties as assigned or requested to assist with daily Rehab operations.

• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds. Moving, lifting or transferring patients may involve lifting or pushing greater than 30 pounds, should be done with assistance as appropriate.

• Ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull or carry patients.

• Must be able to hear staff/clients on the phone and those who are served in-person, and speak clearly in order to communicate information to clients and staff.

• Must have vision with or without lenses that is adequate to read memos, a computer screen, personnel forms and clinical and administrative documents.

• Must be able to reach above the shoulder level to work, must be able to bend, squat and sit, stand, stoop, crouching, reaching, kneeling, twisting/turning, fingering and feeling

• The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet to moderate, but may at times be noisy and crowded

• Valid CA Driver’s License, acceptable driving record, and vehicle insurance.

• Only acts within the scope of his or her authority to practice.

• Medical terminology, basic principles, methods, materials, and equipment used in Physical Therapy

• Awareness of possible reactions of and hazards to patients during treatment, and precautionary and remedial measures

• Anatomy and physiology and growth and development principles relevant to the pediatric and adolescent patient population

• Possession of a current valid license as an Physical Therapy Assistant issued by the State of California Board of Physical Therapy in California.