Physical Therapy Aide

PURPOSE
The Physical Therapy Aide credential documents the essential competencies for performing the tasks safely and effectively of the physical therapy aide under the direct supervision of a physical therapist.

AUDIENCE
This credential is appropriate for any medical assistant (clinical or administrative) working in a physical therapy or rehabilitative capacity.

JOB/CAREER REQUIREMENTS
Credentials in Physical Therapy signify earners' understanding is generally responsible for carrying out the non-technical duties of physical therapy, such as preparing treatment areas, ordering devices and supplies, and transporting patients working under the direction of the physical therapist. Physical therapy aides, under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist, assist with specific components of treatment interventions. Their duties may include assisting with a variety of modalities including therapeutic exercises, functional training in both self-care and work reintegration, and the use of adaptive equipment. Physical therapy aides may also perform non-technical duties such as preparing treatment areas, ordering devices and supplies, performing clerical duties and transporting patients.

PHYSICAL THERAPY AIDE WORKPLACE TASKS

• Assist physical therapists and patients with a variety of modalities and exercises  
• Assist in patient education and in teaching patients self-care activities  
• Assist patients with using adaptive equipment 
• Prepare treatment areas  
• Clean treatment areas and equipment 
• Order devices and supplies
• Maintain supplies inventory 
• Performing clerical duties  
• Transporting patients in healthcare facilities to and from the physical therapy department

EXAM STRUCTURE OVERVIEW
Number of Questions in Exam: 150
Total Time: 100 minutes
Overall Passing Score: 70%
(All sections require an individual passing score of 70%)