Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in Ball Ground, Georgia at Avanta Care LLC

Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)

Job Title: Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)
Department: Physical Therapy / Rehabilitation Services
Reports To: Physical Therapist (PT) / Rehabilitation Director
Employment Type: Full-Time / Part-Time / PRN

Job Summary

The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) provides physical therapy services to patients under the supervision and direction of a licensed Physical Therapist (PT). The PTA assists patients with therapeutic exercises, mobility training, rehabilitation activities, and other treatment interventions designed to improve strength, balance, coordination, mobility, and overall physical function.

The Physical Therapist Assistant works closely with the Physical Therapist, healthcare team, patients, and families to support individualized treatment plans, promote patient safety, encourage independence, and improve the patient's quality of life.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Assist the Physical Therapist in implementing individualized treatment plans and rehabilitation programs.

Provide therapeutic exercises and activities as directed by the supervising Physical Therapist.

Assist patients with walking, transfers, positioning, balance, coordination, and mobility training.

Help patients improve strength, flexibility, endurance, and functional independence.

Provide appropriate assistance with mobility equipment, including walkers, wheelchairs, and other adaptive devices.

Monitor patients during therapy sessions and observe their response to treatment.

Report changes in patient condition, pain levels, mobility, or physical abilities to the supervising Physical Therapist.

Educate patients and caregivers on prescribed exercises, safe mobility techniques, and proper use of assistive devices as directed.

Maintain a safe, clean, and organized therapy environment.

Follow established infection prevention, safety, and patient care procedures.

Document therapy sessions, patient progress, treatment activities, and responses according to organizational policies.

Communicate effectively with Physical Therapists, healthcare professionals, patients, and family members.

Encourage patient participation, motivation, and adherence to prescribed rehabilitation programs.

Assist with preparing therapy equipment and maintaining supplies.

Follow all applicable healthcare regulations, professional standards, and organizational policies.

Perform other related duties as assigned within the scope of practice.

Qualifications and Requirements

Associate degree from an accredited Physical Therapist Assistant program.

Current and valid Physical Therapist Assistant license or required state authorization.

CPR and Basic Life Support (BLS) certification, as required.

Knowledge of physical therapy techniques, rehabilitation exercises, mobility assistance, and patient safety.

Ability to follow treatment instructions and work under the supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist.

Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.

Ability to work effectively with patients of different ages, backgrounds, and physical abilities.

Ability to maintain accurate documentation and patient confidentiality.

Physical ability to assist patients with mobility, transfers, positioning, and therapeutic activities.

Previous experience in physical therapy, rehabilitation, home healthcare, or a clinical setting is preferred.

Required Skills and Competencies

Patient-centered care and compassion.

Effective communication and teamwork.

Patient mobility and transfer assistance.

Therapeutic exercise implementation.

Observation and reporting of patient progress.

Time management and organization.

Attention to detail and accurate documentation.

Professionalism and accountability.

Knowledge of infection control and safety practices.

Ability to follow instructions and maintain appropriate professional boundaries.

Work Environment

The Physical Therapist Assistant may work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, skilled nursing facilities, assisted living communities, or home healthcare settings.

The position may require standing, walking, bending, lifting, assisting patients with transfers, and supporting individuals with varying levels of physical mobility.

Work schedules may include weekdays, evenings, weekends, or flexible hours depending on organizational needs.

Physical Requirements

Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.

Ability to assist patients with transfers, positioning, and mobility activities.

Ability to lift, push, pull, or support patients and equipment within established safety guidelines.

Ability to perform repetitive therapeutic movements and exercises.

Ability to respond appropriately to patient safety concerns and changes in condition.

Professional Responsibilities

The Physical Therapist Assistant must maintain patient confidentiality, demonstrate professional conduct, follow the supervising Physical Therapist's instructions, and provide services within the legally authorized scope of practice.

The PTA must not independently evaluate patients, establish or modify treatment plans, or perform duties outside the scope of practice permitted by applicable regulations.

General Disclaimer

This job description is intended to provide a general overview of the Physical Therapist Assistant position and its typical responsibilities. Duties and requirements may vary depending on the healthcare setting, patient population, organizational policies, and applicable state or local regulations.

The employee may be required to perform additional duties related to the position as assigned, provided such duties are consistent with applicable professional standards and the authorized scope of practice.