PHYSICAL THERAPY AIDE 22380

 

(Labor - County)

 

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS

 

 

The work involves responsibility for performing routine tasks in support of a physical therapy program in a health care facility or program and assists in preparing and transporting patients* for treatment. This is non‑technical work involving the performance of routine housekeeping and helper tasks. The position is similar to other non‑professional positions in the health care field such as Occupational Therapy Aide, but is concerned entirely with functions in the physical therapy area. The work is performed under the instruction and supervision of a qualified Physical Therapist and depending on staffing patterns of the facility, a Physical Therapy Assistant. Incumbents receive on‑the‑job training in routine physical therapy related duties and procedures. Supervision of subordinates is not exercised by employees in this class. Does related work as required.

 

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES

 

Prepares patients for treatment and transports or accompanies them to treatment areas.

As assigned, transports and adjusts physical therapy equipment.

Assists patients with exercise movements or in changing position during treatment.

Assists a Physical Therapist or Physical Therapy Assistant in restorative and rehabilitative movements.

Helps patients in carrying out their maintenance programs as directed by a Physical Therapist.

Observes patients for safety and comfort and notifies Physical Therapist or Assistant of any changes in patients' conditions.

Cleans, repairs and stores physical therapy equipment and supplies.

Prepares, cleans and maintains physical therapy and supportive areas.

Assists in maintaining inventory of physical therapy supplies and equipment

Prepares and maintains simple non‑medical records and reports as required.

 

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

 

Ability to acquire a working knowledge of basic principles and terminology of physical therapy in a health care facility.

Ability to acquire a working knowledge of the care and storage of apparatus and equipment used in physical therapy.

Ability to acquire a working knowledge of the problems and attitudes of ill, aged and handicapped persons.

Ability to learn to carry out assigned duties.

Ability to prepare and maintain simple non‑medical forms and reports.

Ability to follow oral and written instructions.

Sufficient physical strength to support and lift adult patients.

Physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

 

Successful completion of an approved course in physical therapy with certification as a Physical Therapy Aide.

 

The term "Patient" should be changed to "resident" when position is used in health related facilities. Agreed to by Municipal Service Division and State Health Department, July, 1976. Based on New York State Hospital Code.

 

5/83 Revised

 

Review Date: