Human Resources

Physical Therapist Assistant

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: This is a skilled sub professional position involved with the treatment and prevention of neuromuscular or musculoskeletal disabilities by the application of direct physical therapy procedures to patients.  It involves the use of physical agents such as heat, cold, electricity, water, light and neuromuscular procedures.  The work is performed under the supervision of a physical therapist who evaluates patient needs, develops a treatment plan, and assigns specific treatment tasks to the assistant.  A physical therapist is readily available at all times for advice and assistance.  Supervision may be exercised over the work of subordinate employees as delegated by the physical therapist.  Does related work, as required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES:
Applies heat, cold, electricity, light, and water treatments, massage, therapeutic exercise, training in phases of ambulation, and other activities of normal daily  living, according to the physical therapist's direction;
Provides for and observes safety precautions during all phases of treatment;
Observes, records, and reports patients' reactions to treatments and programs;
Prepares, sets up, and maintains treatment areas and equipment;
Inventories, cleans, stores, and otherwise maintains, supplies and equipment;
Performs clerical functions related to maintenance and execution of the physical  therapy programs.

The above examples of duties are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed.  The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them for from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment of the position.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND/OR PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS:  Good knowledge of the principles, techniques and terminology of physical therapy; good knowledge of the operation and maintenance of apparatus and equipment used in physical therapy; working knowledge of human anatomy and physiology; working knowledge of the concepts and scope and limitations of physical therapy; skill in observing and recording patients' responses; sufficient physical strength to support or lift patients; ability to understand oral and written instructions; tact and sympathy in dealing with patients.                                                              

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential function of the job.

While performing the duties of the job, the employee is frequently required to sit, use hands to finger, handle, or fell objects, tools, or controls and reach with hands and arms.  The employee is required to walk, talk and hear.

The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.  Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus, and make visual observations.

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of the job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Possession of certification and current registration by the N.Y.S. Education Dept. as a Physical Therapist Assistant