What is the role of the Physical Therapist Assistant and where are they employed?
The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) is a skilled healthcare worker who implements treatment programs under the direction and delegation of the Physical Therapist. These treatment programs are concerned with health promotion, the prevention of physical disabilities and with the treatment and rehabilitation of persons ill, injured and/or born with disabilities. Some duties of the PTA include reading patients’ charts; transferring patients; assisting the patient in exercise and ambulation; applying physical agents such as heat, cold and electrical stimulation to specific muscles; instructing the patient and care giver in functional skills; and observing and reporting changes in a patient’s condition to the Physical Therapist. Physical Therapist Assistants work in settings where Physical Therapists are employed. These include hospitals, outpatient clinics, private practices, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, school systems and other qualified agencies.
Related Questions
- Can the periodic reevaluation requirement be satisfied by the physical therapist assistant having a conference or discussion with the physical therapist about the patients condition?
- Are the individuals providing physical therapy care required to identify themselves as a physical therapist, physical therapist assistant, and/or physical therapy aide?
- What is the role of the Physical Therapist Assistant and where are they employed?
