Physical Therapist Assistant

**Title of Job:**Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)

Status/FLSA Status:Full-time/Non-Exempt

**Reports to:**Director of Physical Therapy

**Location:**Mason District Hospital – Physical Therapy Department

**Date:**August 2026

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:

• Deliver physical therapy interventions according to the established plan of care, including therapeutic exercises, gait training, functional mobility training, and physical agent modalities.
• Instruct patients, caregivers, and families in home exercise programs, safety techniques, and rehabilitation goals to encourage carryover and active participation.
• Accurately document patient progress, interventions, and observations in SOAP format, adhering to departmental policies, legal standards, and approved medical abbreviations.
• Communicate effectively with Physical Therapists, nursing staff, and interdisciplinary team members regarding patient progress, concerns, or changes in condition.
• 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.
• Follow all safety protocols and infection control procedures; identify and report any hazards, equipment malfunctions, or suspected communicable conditions.
• Demonstrate sound judgment, maintain patient confidentiality, and adhere to hospital policies regarding attendance, dress code, and ethical behavior.
• Participate in departmental quality assessment and improvement activities, including completing QA tools and offering constructive feedback on care delivery systems.
• Adjust to changes in patient volume, schedules, and therapy needs; resolve problems related to care delivery, equipment, or environmental factors.
• Maintain current CPR certification, attend all mandatory in-services, and engage in continuing education to stay current with professional standards and state licensure requirements.
• Foster a professional and confidential relationship with staff and patients, encouraging open communication, trust, and a high standard of professionalism within the department and the hospital.
• Performs other related duties as assigned to meet the needs of the organization.

Qualifications:

• Licensed as a Physical Therapist Assistant by the State of Illinois or eligible for licensure as a new graduate.
• Experience working with diverse patient populations preferred (pediatric, adult, geriatric).
• Proficient in documentation, computer systems, and therapy-related equipment.
• Must hold current BLS certification.
• Valid Illinois Driver’s License, reliable transportation, and insurance for home health responsibilities.
• Demonstrated professionalism, independence, and teamwork.

Physical Demands / Work Environment:

• Frequent standing (60%), walking (40%), and sitting (40%)
• Ability to lift up to 80 lbs., carry up to 60 lbs., and push up to 80 lbs.
• Reaching and handling (40%), with occasional stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, climbing, and balancing (5%)
• Speaking and hearing (60%); vision adequate to read print and handwriting; color vision required
• Primarily indoors (99%); temperature range 60–90°F, humidity 30–60%
• Occasional outdoor work (1%) in temperature extremes (-10 to 110°F)
• Exposure to typical clinical equipment and environmental conditions