Definition
Performs therapeutic work at a sub-professional level in the treatment and prevention of physical disability through use of physical therapy techniques, methods, and equipment; performs related work as required.
Work Examples
- Treats patients using standard therapeutic methods and techniques including use of massage, hot packs, paraffin baths, whirlpool baths, or weight tractions as assigned by a supervising therapist.
- Observes patients closely during treatment to assure safety and to note conditions and progress for reporting to supervising therapist.
- Lifts patients using mechanical or manual means; assists patients from wheelchairs or crutches onto tables, mats, or therapy equipment as required for treatment.
- Prepares patients for treatment; helps them disrobe, positions patients, may set up or adjust equipment or explain treatments to patients as instructed by supervising therapist.
- Cleans and sterilizes facilities and equipment used in therapy treatments as necessary between uses.
- Conveys ambulatory and nonambulatory patients to and from treatment area for appointments as necessary.
- Compiles records of treatment on a daily, weekly, and or monthly basis for reports to the supervising therapist.
Competencies Required
Knowledge of basic patient/resident care practices and principles.
Knowledge of the problems, attitudes, and needs of patients requiring therapeutic treatment.
Knowledge of precautions to be taken when performing strenuous physical tasks.
Ability to learn and perform therapeutic tasks required.
Ability to treat patients with respect, kindness, and consideration, and to secure patient cooperation and confidence.
Ability to perform physical tasks required in providing treatment.
Ability to adjust equipment and appliances as necessary for treatments.
Ability to follow oral and written instructions in conjunction with the provision of treatment services.
Ability to read and write the English language.
Displays high standards of ethical conduct. Refrains from dishonest behavior.
Works and communicates with all clients and customers providing professional service.
Displays a high level of initiative, effort, attention to detail and commitment by completing assignments efficiently with minimal supervision.
Follows policy and cooperates with supervisors.
Fosters and facilitates cooperation, pride, trust, and group identity and team spirit throughout the organization.
- Exchanges information with individuals or groups effectively by listening and responding appropriately.
Education, Experience, and Special Requirements
The equivalent of one year of full-time experience as a nursing assistant or therapy aide (e.g., Activities Aide, Occupational Therapy Assistant, Education Aide in a health care facility;
OR
any equivalent combination of the required experience and post high school education in a physical therapy, practical nursing, child care, geriatric care, mental health, or intellectual disability curriculum may be substituted on the basis that thirty semester hours or the equivalent equals one year of experience.
Notes
At the time of interview, applicants referred to Glenwood and Woodward State Hospital-Schools will be assessed to determine if they meet federal government employment requirements as published in the Federal Register, Section 20-CFR-405.1101.