Title of Job: Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)
Status/FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Reports to: Director of Physical Therapy
Location: Mason District Hospital – Physical Therapy Department
Date: March 2025
Primary Function:
The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) is responsible for implementing physical therapy treatment plans under the supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist. The PTA delivers skilled therapeutic interventions to patients across the lifespan—from pediatrics to geriatrics—in various care settings including inpatient, outpatient, swing-bed, and home health. The PTA assists in patient education, documentation, and interdisciplinary communication to support optimal patient outcomes and uphold departmental and regulatory standards.
Responsibilities:
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Deliver physical therapy interventions according to the established plan of care, including therapeutic exercises, gait training, functional mobility training, and physical agent modalities.
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Instruct patients, caregivers, and families in home exercise programs, safety techniques, and rehabilitation goals to encourage carryover and active participation.
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Accurately document patient progress, interventions, and observations in SOAP format, adhering to departmental policies, legal standards, and approved medical abbreviations.
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Communicate effectively with Physical Therapists, nursing staff, and interdisciplinary team members regarding patient progress, concerns, or changes in condition.
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Assist with the training of support staff, students, and new employees, and provide instruction to home health aides or other personnel involved in patient care.
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Follow all safety protocols and infection control procedures; identify and report any hazards, equipment malfunctions, or suspected communicable conditions.
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Demonstrate sound judgment, maintain patient confidentiality, and adhere to hospital policies regarding attendance, dress code, and ethical behavior.
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Participate in departmental quality assessment and improvement activities, including completing QA tools and offering constructive feedback on care delivery systems.
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Adjust to changes in patient volume, schedules, and therapy needs; resolve problems related to care delivery, equipment, or environmental factors.
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Maintain current CPR certification, attend all mandatory in-services, and engage in continuing education to stay current with professional standards and state licensure requirements.
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Maintain professionalism in all patient and staff interactions, embodying the values of the Rehabilitation Services Department.
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Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
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Licensed as a Physical Therapist Assistant by the State of Illinois or eligible for licensure as a new graduate.
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Experience working with diverse patient populations preferred (pediatric, adult, geriatric).
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Proficient in documentation, computer systems, and therapy-related equipment.
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Must hold current CPR certification.
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Valid Illinois Driver’s License, reliable transportation, and insurance for home health responsibilities.
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Demonstrated professionalism, independence, and teamwork.
Physical Demands / Work Environment:
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Frequent standing (60%), walking (40%), and sitting (40%)
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Ability to lift up to 80 lbs., carry up to 60 lbs., and push up to 80 lbs.
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Reaching and handling (40%), with occasional stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, climbing, and balancing (5%)
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Speaking and hearing (60%); vision adequate to read print and handwriting; color vision required
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Primarily indoors (99%); temperature range 60–90°F, humidity 30–60%
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Occasional outdoor work (1%) in temperature extremes (-10 to 110°F)
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Exposure to typical clinical equipment and environmental conditions
