Physical Therapist

Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) New Jersey

Risk of Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens: High

Position Summary:

The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) will work under the direct supervision and direction of a licensed Physical Therapist in accordance with New Jersey State Board of Physical Therapy Examiners regulations. The PTA will assist in implementing treatment plans developed by the Physical Therapist to help patients recovering from injuries and illnesses regain movement, manage pain, and improve overall function through therapeutic interventions such as exercise, manual therapy, gait and balance training.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide physical therapy interventions as delegated by the supervising Physical Therapist.
• Promote and maintain health and functional independence by delivering safe and effective physical therapy services.
• Contribute to the Physical Therapist's plan of care by reporting observations and identifying patient care issues.
• Administer established treatment programs, including therapeutic exercises, functional training, and manual techniques, as instructed by the Physical Therapist.
• Document patient care services and interventions in medical records per facility and regulatory standards.
• Assist patients in using assistive devices such as crutches, canes, and prosthetics under the guidance of the Physical Therapist.
• Instruct and counsel patients and families on exercises and home management programs developed by the supervising Physical Therapist.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and compliant clinical environment by adhering to infection control and facility safety standards.
• Participate in quality improvement initiatives and compliance activities related to federal, state, and JCAHO regulations.
• Support clinic operations by assisting with inventory management and supply ordering when needed.
• Maintain patient confidentiality and comply with HIPAA standards at all times.

Job Conditions:

• Must have a valid driver's license and reliable transportation to travel to patient homes if applicable; some locations may not be wheelchair accessible.
• Must possess sufficient physical ability (including hearing, vision, and dexterity) to assess and assist patient care needs.
• Physical requirements may include lifting and moving patients weighing up to 250 pounds, and lifting/carrying up to 30 pounds.
• Must be able to effectively communicate verbally and in writing in English.

Qualifications and Skills:

• Strong knowledge of physiological principles and therapeutic practices.
• Commitment to promoting wellness and maintaining patient safety.
• Ability to effectively motivate, instruct, and support patients.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and documentation skills.
• Professional demeanor and commitment to maintaining a high standard of patient care.

Education and Experience Requirements:

• Associate Degree from a CAPTE-accredited Physical Therapist Assistant program.
• Current New Jersey PTA license in good standing.
• Minimum of one (1) year of experience in a clinical or home health setting preferred.
• Current, hands-on CPR certification (online-only certifications are not accepted).
• Must successfully pass criminal background check.