Provides physical therapy and program assistance services to clients.
Positions in this class may function at a higher level by providing professional physical therapy duties by interpreting physical therapist’s evaluations for common and less common diagnoses and participating in patient care teams. Positions may also function at a lower level by providing paraprofessional physical therapy duties by assisting in the evaluation of treatment and assisting physical therapists in determining and providing the appropriate therapy. Some positions provide supervision to subordinate staff.
Assists in the evaluation of patients referred for treatment through routine measurements of injured parts for strength, grip, dexterity, coordination, swelling, and range of motion. Assists therapists with conducting perceptual-motor and behavioral programs and reporting progress. Records progress notes in patients' charts. Instructs patients in activities of daily living such as moving from bed to chair and from chair to walker. Operates and supervises the operation of a wide variety of equipment including ultrasonic machines, massage units, knee exercisers, electrical stimulation, cold-laser, and related equipment. Instructs patients, their families, and other health care providers in the appropriate therapy program. Participates in individual patient care and team conferences, clinics, and rounds. Provides input into patients’ plans of care.
Knowledge of physical therapy principles, techniques, methods, modalities, and their proper application. Knowledge of administration of routine to complex physical therapy treatments. Knowledge of functional anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics. Knowledge of possible hazards to patients during treatment and of precautionary and remedial measures. Ability to report patient progress through oral and written communication. Ability to instruct other staff in physical therapy treatments. Ability to work effectively with patients, families, and health care professionals.
Licensure as a Physical Therapist Assistant by the South Carolina Board of Physical Therapy. Some positions require current CPR certification.
An associate degree in physical therapy.