Physical Therapist Assistant
Spokane of Cascadia LLC·Spokane Valley, Washington
Spokane of Cascadia LLC·Spokane Valley, Washington
The Physical Therapist Assistant works under a licensed Physical Therapist to help patients regain movement and control pain through stretching and strength training. They are responsible for implementing therapy plans, documenting patient care, and assisting with daily living activities.
A Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) works under the direction of a licensed Physical Therapist to help residents/patients with physical injuries or illnesses to regain range of movement and control their pain. PTAs follow plans created by physical therapists that involve stretching, strength training, exercises, and physical manipulation to help residents/patients recover.
Essential Functions Helps residents with ambulation (walking, moving out of their wheelchairs, etc.).
Contributes to patients physical therapist's effectiveness by identifying patient care issues; providing information and commentary; recommending options and courses of action; implementing physical therapy directives.
Assesses patient health by interviewing patients; performing physical examinations; obtaining, updating, and studying therapy histories.
Assesses abnormal conditions by reviewing physical therapist's interpretations of patient evaluations and test results.
Documents patient care services by charting in patient and department records.
Performs therapeutic procedures by administering manual exercises; instructing, encouraging, and assisting residents/patients in performing physical activities, such as non-manual exercises, ambulatory functional activities, and daily-living activities; and in using supportive devices, such as crutches, canes, and prostheses.
Instructs and counsels patients by describing therapeutic regimens; giving normal growth and development information; promoting wellness and health maintenance.
Provides continuity of care implementing patient management plan.
Maintains safe and clean working environment by complying with procedures, rules, and regulations; adhering to infection-control policies and protocols.
Maintains production objectives by noting current treatment trends; monitoring actual physical therapy services rendered to production objectives Ensures punctuality and regular attendance for assigned shifts.
Other Functions Maintains legal and accreditation compliance by adhering to policy positions concerning federal, state, and local regulations; anticipating emerging issues. Updates job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities; reading professional publications; maintaining personal networks; participating in professional organizations. Performs other duties as assigned.
Education: Graduate of an accredited Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) program. Licenses/Certification: Current state PTA licensure. Valid CPR certification.
Six months experience in a long-term care environment preferred.
Market context
Physical Therapist Assistant openings in Washington are often competitive because clinics and rehab settings need licensed support staff who can work with patients across recovery plans. New graduates and experienced PTAs may both be considered, but employers usually look for candidates who can show readiness for licensure, patient care skills, and dependable teamwork. Review the Washington license pathway and compare the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time before applying.
