Physical Therapy Aide

Job DetailsJob Location: Klickitat Valley Health - GOLDENDALE, WA 98620Position Type: Full Time 32 hours/wkSalary Range: $19.23 - $23.43 HourlyJob Shift: DaysAt Klickitat Valley Health, we believe healing happens through teamwork, compassion, and meaningful patient connections. We are seeking a dedicated and dependable Physical Therapy Aide to join our rehabilitation team and help support patients on their journey toward improved mobility, strength, and independence. In this role, you will work alongside skilled Physical Therapists to assist with patient care activities, prepare treatment areas and equipment, and help create a safe, welcoming, and encouraging environment for patients and families alike. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys working directly with people, thrives in a collaborative healthcare setting, and is passionate about making a positive difference in others' lives. The ideal candidate is compassionate, motivated, detail-oriented, and committed to providing outstanding customer service while supporting high-quality patient care in a professional and team-focused environment.   General Summary: The Physical Therapy Aide (P.T. Aide) supports the physical therapy care provided to the patient under the direction of a Physical Therapist, and based on the orders given by a provider, within his/her scope of practice (RCW 18.74.010). The PT Aide assists the Physical Therapist in preparing the patient and the care area for the therapy or treatment to be provided. The PT Aide demonstrates excellence in customer service during interactions with patients, families, and other customers, and works collaboratively with colleagues and departments throughout the organization to provide optimal patient outcomes in a compassionate, professional, ethical, and knowledgeable manner. May provide necessary routine clerical support for the Physical Therapy Unit, if needed. The PT Aide is aware of the potential exposure to internal and external hazardous materials, including but not limited to: blood and blood-borne pathogens, infectious/communicable diseases, and potential physical injury while caring for patients. Maintains a safe, clean environment for patient care.   QualificationsQUALIFICATIONS: Minimum Education, Training & Experience (includes licenses or certifications): Safety Sensitive per WASB5123: No Education / Licensure: High school diploma or GED required. Current BLS certification required. Knowledge/comprehension of basic personal care processes given to patients is required.   Experience: At least one (1) year of recent full-time experience providing direct patient care in an outpatient physical therapy department, either as part of a hospital or an independent physical therapy business/clinic, is required.     ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS / RESPONSIBILITIES (but not limited to): Supports the organization's mission, vision, and values. Prepares the treatment room/area for the patient by following prescribed procedures and protocols; ensures patient privacy during treatment in the department; and supplies the patient with blankets, pillows, etc., for the patient’s comfort, as needed. Prepares patient for physical therapy treatment by welcoming the patient, assisting the patient into the care area, providing and/or assisting the patient into PT apparel or using PT equipment, and comforting the patient as needed based on condition/limitations. Provides information to the patient by answering questions and requests to determine patient needs, or allay concerns/fears, or anxieties. Helps treat patients by applying heat packs and paraffin dips; assisting patients into whirlpool baths; helping patients use various exercise equipment; and performing various physical activities, such as walking/bending/reaching, and lifting. Educates/instructs the patient by demonstrating proper use of equipment and prescribed exercise routines; clarifies the patient’s understanding of PT care being ordered/given. Provides equipment and supplies by delivering to the treatment care area; positions equipment for Physical Therapists' access; may assist with patient positioning as needed. Provides care appropriate to the patient's condition and age, including pediatric, geriatric, and general populations, and maintains awareness of the patient's needs based on age-specific factors, including physical and psychosocial needs. Reports any changes in patient status or condition to the supervising Physical Therapist, to ensure patient comfort and safety, or if the patient complains of pain and discomfort. Maintains department supply levels; checks stock to determine inventory levels, processes requests to purchasing for supply orders; verifies receipt of supplies. Ensures operation of PT equipment; may perform preventative maintenance, reports to supervisor any malfunction or repair needs. Performs all aspects of patient care in an environment that optimizes patient safety and maintains a safe, clean working environment. Provides clerical assistance to the physical therapy department as needed, including answering phones, scheduling appointments, entering orders/patient demographics, etc. Complies with all hospital policy and procedures, while upholding the high expectations of KVH. Attends various staff meetings and mandatory in-services as required. Performs other miscellaneous duties as assigned.