Selects and applies interventions to support treatment plan as evidenced by goal achievement. Consults with physical therapist regarding referrals for other services needed, as well as patient status.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Associate degree as a Physical Therapist Assistant from an accredited school

• Licensed as a Physical Therapy Assistant in the State of Texas

• BLS Certification

• One (1) or more years of previous experience working with a variety of patients of all ages is preferred; previous experience with a variety of physical disabilities is preferred

ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provides age-appropriate therapeutic interventions.

• Documents the course of patient care.

• Informs physical therapist of patient’s progress and possible discharge from services.

• Participates in continuing educational/professional development activities.

• Performs all aspects of patient care in an environment that optimizes patient safety and reduces the likelihood of medical/health care errors.

• Supports and maintains a culture of safety and quality.

• Coordinates and directs patient care to ensure patients’ needs are met and hospital policy is followed.

• Ensures that patient changes are accurate and entered on a timely basis.

• Maintains records pertinent to the staff and operation of the department.

• Interacts professionally with patient/family and involves patient/family in the formation of the plan of care.

• Communicates appropriately and clearly to physicians, staff and administrative team.

• Manages and operates equipment safely and correctly. Maintains department cleanliness and safety.

• Demonstrates an ability to be flexible, organized and function in stressful situations.  Works effectively with others.

• Maintains a good working relationship both within the department and with other departments.

• Consults other departments, as appropriate, to collaborate in patient care and performance improvement activities.

• Meets current documentation standards and policies.

• Ensures that patient charges are accurate and entered on a timely basis.

• Functions as a resource for and provides team members with in-service cross-training on physical therapy knowledge and skills areas.

• Participates in educational programs and fulfillment of departmental requirements relating to hospital-wide in-services such as BLS, fire/safety, and infection control.

• Contributes to the development of improved efficiency and productivity of rehab services such as positive suggestions/solutions, quality improvement, offering to assist team functions, cost-effective provision of services and maintaining equipment.

• Performs other duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS 

• Support CMH’s mission, vision, core values and customer service philosophy

• Adhere to the CMH Compliance Program

• Assures/maintains compliance with all accreditations, statutory and regulatory standards at the local, state, and federal levels      

• Maintains in status, licenses/certifications, and memberships in applicable professional organizations

• Participates in department meetings by attending team business meetings and offering ideas/solutions in problem solving situations/activities

• Comply with all organizational policies. 

• Demonstrate outstanding customer service/advocacy, professionalism, and integrity

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Strong organizational and interpersonal skills including the ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing

• Strong reasoning/critical thinking skills

• Excellent time management, collaboration, prioritization and problem-solving skills

• Proficiency with computer skills including Microsoft Office applications. 

• Willingness to adapt to change and support new technologies as well as policies and procedures in a positive manner

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

• High-stress environment

• Exposure to blood and body fluids, communicable diseases, chemicals, radiation, and repetitive motions

• Pushing and pulling heavy objects

• Full range of body motion including handling and lifting patients

• Position requires moderate to heavy lifting of 50+lbs. 

• Position requires reaching, bending, stooping, and handling objects with hands and/or fingers, talking and/or hearing, and seeing

• Mental demands include  alertness, analytic ability, memory, concentration, judgment, initiative, precision, creativity and communication.