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Form of workWorks under the administrative direction of the Director of Rehab Services and the direct supervision of the Supervisor of Physical Therapy. Provides physical therapy treatments to patients under the clinical supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist. Provides education to hospital personnel and the community on physical therapy issues. These duties are to be performed in accordance to the Mission of Mercy Hospital and Medical Center: providing a high quality of care, patient satisfaction, and compassion toward all patients, personnel, professional staff, volunteers, and guests. The Physical Therapist Assistant provides care appropriate to the age of the patient defined by the following: Children and adolescents
(8-18 years); Adult (19-60 years); Geriatric adult (61 years to the end of life.
Performs but does not interpret selected measurement procedures such as joint range of motion, gross strength of muscle groups, and length and girth of body parts. Assess general mental, emotional, and cognitive status in frequently referred diagnoses. Obtains general subjective information to assist in evaluation.
Assists in the provision of patient treatment:
Upon completion of the initial evaluation by a supervising PT, initiates treatment according to the prescribed plan of care. Alters treatment only after approval by the supervising PT.
Utilizes subjective and objective results supplied by supervising PT to guide treatment approach.
Reviews chart and/or obtains current information prior to treatment session and identifies information which may necessitate modification of PT treatment. Modifies treatment procedure if indicated by patient response and within the limits of the plan of care. Seeks guidance from supervising PT if plan of care needs to be changed.
Assesses patient response to treatment and reports unexpected responses to supervising PT. Documents incidences with assistance.
Instructs patient, nursing, and family regarding the importance of participation in PT program.
Involves patient and family, as appropriate, in treatment and discharge planning.
Recommends (for use while in the hospital and/or at discharge) necessary durable medical equipment or other therapeutic devices that promotes optimal functioning and patient safety. Seeks guidance from supervising PT for equipment selection and most cost effective materials.
Utilizes appropriate modalities that include but are not limited to heat, cold, light, water, sound and electricity. Utilizes exercise equipment, general strengthening and range of motion exercises.
Is able to present rationale for selection of a particular procedure.
Participates in patient care and team conferences, clinics, and rounds for the purpose of coordinating patient care. Makes a verbal/written report regarding patient’s status when requested.
Incorporates safety, infection control and emergency procedures into treatment.
Charts and authenticates progress notes and treatment summaries in a timely manner.
Administrative and Organizational Duties:
Has a thorough knowledge of policies and procedures. Frequently refers to Policy & Procedure Manual in carrying out job responsibilities
With occasional guidance, organizes own schedule to reflect a “Patient 1st” philosophy. Rearranges schedule, coordinates with peers, asks for assistance when necessary.
Carries a patient load that reflects the productivity standard of the unit.
Demonstrates appropriate written communication.
Is responsible for written documentation that includes but is not limited to progress notes, home programs, discharge summaries, statistical reporting, charges and interdisciplinary forms.
All documentation is to be legible, inclusive, concise, accurate and grammatically correct.
Maintains timely and accurate department records according to departmental policies and procedures. Informs supervisor if paperwork gets behind.
Documentation meets the standards of the department, outside regulatory agencies and insurance agencies.
With assistance, completes variance reports.
Participates in performance improvement:
Participates in process to review current clinical procedures, protocols, and forms.
Utilizes department clinical procedures, protocols and forms.
Completes clinical competencies as determined by the unit.
May participate as a member of a quality improvement team.
Participates in departmental administration:
Attends unit and departmental meetings unless formally excused. Reports to meetings on a timely basis.
