Summary:

Under the direction and supervision of the physical therapy manager, the Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) will provide residents with exercise, massage, gait and balance training, aquatic therapy, and other therapeutic interventions in accordance with all applicable state licensure and regulatory requirements including compliance to the Washington State Physical Therapy Act. The PTA is also responsible for overseeing therapy equipment, therapy pool, and therapy building.

Essential Functions

• Provides physical therapy treatments, including aquatic therapy, according to the provider approved therapy plan of care.
• Communicates and collaborates with the physical therapy manager and other team members regarding resident progress, safety concerns, and any equipment or program needs.
• Provides pertinent, approved training to all caregivers regarding proper body mechanics or resident specific physical therapy needs. Acts as a resource and mentor to the Restorative Aid.
• Recognizes and responds appropriately to urgent/emergent situations per policies and procedures.
• Documents all treatment notes in the electronic medical record. Completes billing documents in an accurate and timely manner.
• Supports all physical therapy related equipment for safety and adjustments.
• Supports and coordinates all aquatic therapy appointments.
• Collaborates with the maintenance technician to monitor the therapy pool as appropriate.
• Monitors the physical therapy building for supply needs and maintenance.
• Adheres to all policies and procedures, including but not limited to standards for safety, attendance, punctuality and personal appearance.
• Adheres to HIPAA and all state and federal medical privacy laws. 
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills and Abilities

• Operational; ability to adhere to the role’s professional standards of practice and provide services consistent with the mission.
• Independent Judgment; ability to practice independently in the delivery of care within scope of practice. Ability to assess changes in resident health status; determine when to take corrective action and when to make referrals. High degree of initiative and accountability in decision making and follow through.
• Leadership; foster a highly reliable, respectful and professional environment with co-workers. Ability to work in teams and coordinate care with other healthcare professionals. High degree of initiative and accountability in decision making and follow through.
• Physical Stamina; ability to stand on your feet and walk for long periods of time.
• Detail oriented and organized; ability to organize workload, prioritize, and follow through on tasks in a timely manner.
• Communication and interpersonal skills; ability to communicate effectively and with active listening. Ability to read, write, and speak English clearly.
• Emotional Stability; patience and calm demeanor. Ability to manage emotions and maintain caring nature while administering resident's care.
• Confidentiality; adherence to organization’s policies, procedures, infection prevention, safety, confidentiality policies and procedures; HIPAA and all state and federal medical privacy laws.
• Cultural Competency; ability to demonstrate sensitivity and respect to community members from multiple cultures, and to individuals who experience disabilities.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Completion of an accredited Physical Therapist Assistant program.
• Current Washington State Physical Therapist Assistant license.
• One year as a Physical Therapy Assistant or comparable internship.
• 1-year experience working with children.
• Proficient in computer and MS 365.
• Current Aquatic Facility Operator Certification or ability to complete certification within 90 days of hire
• Must successfully pass a color vision test to ensure accurate color perception upon hire
• Must pass a State and Federal Background Check, including fingerprints
• Valid State Driver’s License
• Must maintain current vehicle insurance
• Current Healthcare Provider BLS/CPR
• Current Food Handler’s Permit or within 30 days of hire
• Proof of licensing required vaccinations
• Abuse Prevention Systems Sexual Abuse Awareness Training within 90 days of hire
• DDA Developmental Disabilities Specialty Training within 90 days of hire
• DOH In Home Services Orientation Class within 90 days of hire
• DSHA Adult Family Home Administrator Training within one year of hire
• Behavior Management Training within 60 days of hire
• Must acquire and provide proof of 30 hours of CEUs per year

Work Environment

This position is inclusive of all resident care programs of Pope’s Place. The position requires flexibility as hours of work are subject to operational needs. The environment may include exposure to communicable diseases, bodily fluids, and other potential hazards. Must wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as required and follow strict guidelines to protect self and residents from infectious disease; use proper lifting techniques at all times and pursue help as needed.

Physical Demands

This position requires full range of motion and eye-hand coordination. Must be able to walk, bend, stretch, lift and stand. Must be able to distinguish between smells and colors, hear audible sounds. The position may require lifting and moving residents. Must be able to lift 40 lbs. and always use proper lifting techniques; pursue assistance with lifting as needed.

Travel

Out of town travel is not required for this position.

Pay: $31.26 - $37.64 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person