Home Health Physical Therapy Assistant

DUTIES

Provide skilled Physical Therapy services, on an intermittent basis, to patients, in their homes, under direction from the Registered Physical Therapist.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Under the direction of a Registered Physical Therapist (PT), provide patient services, which have been delegated by the PT.

Under the supervision of the physical therapist, assist in evaluation and development of a rehabilitative plan of care and in periodic re-evaluation, as required.

Participate in the preparation of clinical and daily progress notes; all notes are reviewed by the PT and submitted, within 48 hours. Also prepares periodic summary reports.

As directed, perform routine strengthening, and therapeutic, exercises and assist the patient with the use of self-help devices.

Together with the PT, instruct the patient, and family, and assist in teaching exercise programs, to the patient and family.

Identify possible ineffective drug therapy, or adverse reactions, significant side effects, drug allergies, and contra-indicated medication and reports same to the PT.

Observe, and record, activities, and findings, in the clinical record, and reports to the PT and the physician the patient's reaction to treatment and any changes in the patient's condition.

Consult with PT, regarding the outcome of home visits and report physical findings, in written form.

Under the supervision of the Physical Therapist, assist in evaluation, and development, of the rehabilitative plan of care and in periodic re-evaluation, as indicated.

Instruct other health team personnel including, as appropriate, Home Health Aides, as well as family members, with respect to certain phases of physical therapy, so that they may work with the patient.

Attend rehabilitation department staff meetings and case conferences.

Participate with staff, patients, and physicians in discharge activities and assist the Physical Therapist in completing the Physical Therapy Discharge Summary.

Confirm, on a weekly basis, the scheduling of visits with the Supervisor/ Clinical Manager in order to coordinate Agency visits.

Assume responsibility for self-development by continually striving to improve his/her health care knowledge through educational programs, attendance at workshops and conferences, active participation in professional and related organizations, and individual research and reading.

Assume other duties, deemed appropriate and necessary, by the PT, and as designated by Registered Nurse Case Management and the Nursing Supervisor.

ASSISTS IN THE AGENCY ADMISSION PROCESS

Obtain a medical history, particularly as it relates to the present condition.

Evaluate the patient, the patient’s significant other(s), and the home situation to determine what instruction will be required, what assistance will be available from the family in caring for the patient, and what other Agency and community services will be required.

Ensure that the physician’s orders are appropriate and discuss necessary changes.