Physical Therapy Assistants and Aides
Medical and scientific research has created the need for many rehabilitation services. Our population is growing older at a rate that will require the support of many health care personnel. These are just a few of the reasons that make the choice to pursue a career as a physical therapy assistant or aide a good decision.
Assistants work directly under the supervision
of physical therapists. The majority of their work involves direct patient
care. They work with patients to restore or improve mobility
or assist patients with pain management issues. They may use techniques
such as exercise, electrical stimulation, massage, hot and cold therapy,
ultrasound, or traction to achieve these results. Orthopedic procedures such
as hip and knee replacements are becoming increasingly more common. Assistants
will often provide rehabilitation
services to these clients. Individuals involved in trauma-related accidents also
require the services of physical therapy for recovery. The therapist sometimes
relies on assistants to offer to teach related to exercises
that can be performed at home or to deliver instructions on how to use crutches
or rolling walkers.
Physical therapist assistants are typically required to document and report
patient responses to treatments and patient progress.
Most states in the United States require an assistant to hold an associate
degree. In addition, some states require licensure. There are also an
additional 44 programs in development for this educational program. Completion
of a state or national examination may be required for licensing as a physical
therapy assistant as well.
Compensation and Duties
The average annual salary for assistants and aides
according to factors such as geography, company size, and type of employer can
effect wage indicators.
Many Aides work under the supervision of a
physical therapist or an assistant. Their job duties are varied. They
essentially are responsible for ensuring that
therapy sessions run smoothly. They may transfer patients to and from therapy
sessions. They maintain the therapy area with supplies and keep things clean
and organized.
Aides may also perform clerical duties such as scheduling appointments,
ordering supplies, and filling out insurance forms. They may assist patients
with dressing or undressing. An aide may weigh patients. Aides are not licensed
so they do not provide any type of physical therapy with
patients.
Educational requirements
for an aide are a high school diploma or GED. Many facilities provide on the
job-training for this position. Previous experience as a certified nursing
assistant or home health aide could be beneficial when searching for
this type of job.
Workplaces for physical therapy assistants and aides include acute care hospitals, long-term care
facilities, home health, schools, rehabilitation facilities, orthopedic clinics, and
physician offices. Some physical therapists have private practices so this is
another employment option. The working hours for these positions can vary a
great deal. Some weekend work and evening work may be required.
Individuals interested in pursuing
a career as a licensed physical therapist may find that beginning as an aide or
assistant can offer a great deal of experience that can be helpful in achieving
this goal. Working in the environment can help one feel comfortable with the terminology and
procedures involved with physical therapy. This will surely be of help with the
educational and clinical requirements of a physical therapy program.
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