Physical Therapist Assistant

This position provides physical therapy services, under the supervision of a Physical Therapist, to a pediatric population, from infant through adolescence/young adulthood. Performs treatment of patients using modalities including exercise, neuromuscular reeducation, mobilization, heat/cold, taping, electrical stimulation, and ultrasound, specific to age and developmental/functional level determined by assessment of the supervising Physical Therapist.

Position Duties

• Provide Physical Therapy Services

  • Promotes and maintains health by providing physical therapy services under the supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist as outlined by the APTA in their Standards of Practice, and Phoenix Children's Policies & Procedures Manual.
  • Contributes to the physical therapist’s effectiveness by reviewing physical therapist’s interpretations of patient evaluations and test results, and implementing physical therapy plan of care; identifying patient care issues; providing information and feedback; recommending options and courses of action.
  • Monitors patient health by interviewing patients/families and reviewing patient history. Works closely and communicates directly with supervising Physical Therapist. Provides treatment according to the Physical Therapist’s plan of care and communicates immediately when patient shows changes that may require a re-evaluation from the PT.
  • Treats patients with a wide range of diagnoses including but not limited to: neurological, sensorimotor, musculoskeletal disorders/delays, complex medical conditions, and trauma. Demonstrates knowledge of typical development and possesses skills necessary to provide age-appropriate services. Uses pediatric-based behavior management strategies and matches therapeutic interventions to age/ability of the child, using a framework of family-centered care. Implements patient’s plan of care established by the supervising PT using treatment modalities including but not limited to: exercise, neuromuscular re-education, mobilization, heat/cold, taping, electrical stimulation, and ultrasound as prescribed by a physician. This may include education in use of durable medical equipment to maximize function.
  • Performs patient/family education for maximizing function within the home/community through implementation of home program. Maintains mutual agreement upon discussion with family/guardian.

• Documentation and Safety

  • Maintains appropriate and timely documentation in compliance with current accreditation standards, state/federal guidelines, and CARF standards, including participation in Total Quality Management.
  • Maintains safe and clean working environment by complying with procedures, rules, and regulations; adhering to infection-control policies and procedures.

• Collaboration and Continuing Education

  • Organizes, coordinates, and collaborates with other disciplines within the hospital and resources within the community to maximize value and effectiveness of plan of care. Builds and maintains rapport within the department, hospital, and community, while professionally interacting with physicians, families, and hospital/community personnel. Supervises and directs rehab technician, providing input into their performance evaluations.
  • Updates job knowledge by meeting requirements for continuing education and demonstrating commitment to learning; including preparation and participation in in-service training programs. Enhances physical therapy and hospital reputation by accepting ownership for accomplishing new and different requests; exploring opportunities to add value to job accomplishments.

• Performs miscellaneous job related duties as requested.

Phoenix Children's Mission, Vision, & Values

Mission

To advance hope, healing and the best healthcare for children and their families

Vision

Phoenix Children's will be the leading pediatric health system in the Southwest, nationally recognized for exceptional care, innovative research and advanced medical education.

We realize this vision by:

• Offering the most comprehensive care across ages, communities and specialties
• Investing in innovative research, including emerging treatments, tools and technologies
• Advancing education and training to shape the next generation of clinical leaders
• Advocating for the health and well-being of children and families

Values

• We place children and families at the center of all we do
• We deliver exceptional care, every day and in every way
• We collaborate with colleagues, partners and communities to amplify our impact
• We set the standards of pediatric healthcare today, and innovate for the future
• We are accountable for making the highest quality care accessible and affordable