The Physical Therapist Assistant I supports patient recovery by implementing physical therapy interventions as directed by a licensed physical therapist, helping patients improve mobility, manage pain, and achieve rehabilitation goals. This role ensures accurate documentation, maintains a safe and organized treatment environment, and upholds regulatory and ethical standards. Performs other duties as assigned. All job responsibilities are to be carried out in alignment with Kettering Health's mission, vision, values, and B Safe program.
Required Education:
- Associate degree from a physical therapist assistant program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).
Required Work Experience:
- Completion of clinical rotations as part of an accredited PTA program.
Required Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations:
- Current Physical Therapist Assistant license issued by the State of Ohio (must be obtained prior to start date). Successful completion of the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) for PTAs. Passing score on the Ohio jurisprudence exam. Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification or ability to obtain within orientation period and prior to patient care.
Skills:
- Knowledge of physical therapy techniques and modalities
- ability to follow treatment plans and instructions from supervising Physical Therapists
- effective verbal and written communication
- ability to document patient care accurately
- documentation and recordkeeping in an electronic health record (EHR) system
- patient education and engagement
- strong organizational and time management skills
- ability to collaborate with patients, families, and interdisciplinary teams
- critical thinking and observation
- ability to maintain patient confidentiality and comply with HIPAA regulations.
Competencies:
- For Inpatient Acute Care positions:
- Employee demonstrates patient identification at Point of Entry and Point of Care to policy.
- Employee demonstrates knowledge of Rehab Med Acute Care.
- Employee demonstrates consistent hand hygiene practices.
- For Inpatient Rehab positions:
- Employee demonstrates proper KHN restraint skills
- Employee demonstrates patient identification at Point of Entry and Point of Care to policy
- Employee has knowledge of Rehab Med Ranchos Levels and Interventions
- Employee demonstrates consistent hand hygiene practices
- Outpatient Therapy positions:
- Employee demonstrates patient identification at Point of Entry and Point of Care to policy
- Employee appropriately assesses pain levels
- Employee demonstrates understanding of motor learning strategies