Overview
Assists the Physical Therapist in administering physical therapy treatment in the home setting for patients suffering from injuries, neurological conditions, developmental delays, or muscle, nerve, joint and bone disease, to restore function and prevent disability by performing the following duties:
Responsibilities
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Administers active and passive manual therapeutic exercises, balance and proprioceptive training, therapeutic massage, mobilization of tissue and joints, traction, and heat, light, sound, water, and electrical modality treatments such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, ultraviolet, infrared, and hot and cold packs.
- Instructs, motivates, and assists patients to learn and improve functional activities such as perambulation, transfer, ambulation, and daily living activities.
- Observes patients during treatments and compiles and evaluates data on patients' responses to treatments and progress and reports orally or in writing to Physical Therapist.
- Fits patients for, adjusts, and trains patients in use and care of orthopedic braces, prostheses, and supportive devices such as crutches, canes, walkers, and wheelchairs.
- Confers with members of physical therapy staff and other health team members, individually and in conference, to exchange, discuss, and evaluate patient information for planning, modifying, and coordinating treatment programs.
- Assists with orientation to new Physical Therapist Assistants.
- Measures patient's range-of-joint motion, length and girth of body parts, and vital signs to determine effects of specific treatments or to assist Physical Therapist to compile data for patient evaluations.
- Completes thorough and timely electronic documentation
- Participates in the PI and CQI process through committees as needed
Culture of Excellence Behavior Expectations
To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following behavior expectations:
Quality - Follows policies and procedures; adapts to and manages changes in the environment; Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness giving attention to details; Looks for ways to improve and promote quality; Applies feedback to improve performance; Manages time and prioritizes effectively to achieve organizational goals. Service - Responds promptly to requests for service and assistance; Follows the Mercyhealth Critical Moments of service; Meets commitments; Abides by MH confidentiality and security agreement; Shows respect and sensitivity for cultural differences; and effectively communicates information to partners; Thinks system wide regarding processes and functions. Partnering - Shows commitment to the Mission of Mercyhealth and Culture of Excellence through all words and actions; Exhibits objectivity and openness to other's views; Demonstrates a high level of participation and engagement in day-to-day work; Gives and welcomes feedback; Generates suggestions for improving work: Embraces teamwork, supports and encourages positive change while giving value to individuals. Cost - Conserves organization resources; Understands fiscal responsibility; Works within approved budget; Develops and implements cost saving measures; contributes to profits and revenue.
Education and Experience
Associate's degree (A. A.) or equivalent from two-year College or technical school Minimum of two years' experience as PTA Minimum of one year Home Health experience.
Certification and Licensure
License to practice Physical Therapy Assistant in the state of Wisconsin and/or Illinois as required Approved CPR or BLS certification required within 90 days of hire
For those driving Mercyhealth vehicles: Maintain a valid driver's license. Have and maintain an acceptable driving record per Mercyhealth's HR.100 Fleet and Driver Safety policy.
For those driving their personal vehicles: Maintain a valid driver's license and reliable transportation with proof of vehicle insurance when requested. Have and maintain an acceptable driving record per Mercyhealth's HR.100 Fleet and Driver Safety policy.
Skills and Abilities
Special Physical Demands
The Special Physical Demands are considered Essential Job Functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodations. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms, and talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to sit, stoop, walk, and stand. The employee is occasionally required to kneel, crouch, crawl, climb or balance. The employee must regularly lift and /or move up to 10 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, peripheral vision and ability to adjust focus.
Level of Supervision
Some independent judgment is required, but alternatives are limited by standard practices or procedures.
Supervises
No supervisory responsibilities
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