Physical Therapy Aide

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Physical Therapy Aides assist physical therapists and physical therapy assistants to set up and maintain treatment areas, organize equipment and assist patients to prepare for treatment in recovering from injuries and improving mobility.

Work EnvironmentCourse OutlineStudent Supplies
Physical Therapy Aides require a moderate amount of strength because of the physical demands of the position: Lifting, kneeling, stooping, bending and standing for long periods of time are all part of the day. The hours and days physical therapy aides work vary according to the facility they work in allowing some to work in part time shifts. Many offices have evening and weekend hours to coincide with patient schedules.
  • History of Physical Therapy
  • Body Mechanics
  • Set up and maintain treatment area
  • Workplace Safety
  • Anatomy and Physiology
  • Communication Skills
  • Assisting with Ambulation and Gait Training
  • Range of Motion
  • Transferring and Transporting of Patients
  • Infection Control
  • Law and Ethics
  • Customer Service
  • Common physical disorders and treatment
  • Therapy treatments and exercise
  • Mobility training
  • CPR
  • Physical Agents and Modalities
  • Vital Signs
  • Growth & Development

Helpful Preparatory Courses
Biology
Medical Terminology

1. V-neck top
2. Draw string pants
3. White rubber soled leather shoes or sneakers
4. White crew socks or stockings
5. White crew neck tee shirt
6. Name tag
*Check with teacher for scrubs/uniform specifications and supplies.

CTE Endorsement

Students must successfully meet the academic and attendance criteria for a two-year Wilson Tech Certificate of Completion, be High School diploma eligible, and pass the following national certification exam: NOCTI – Health Assisting.

About the instructor

Megan Pettit has a master’s degree in physical therapy from Arcadia University (PA). She is a licensed physical therapist who has worked for more than 14 years in the clinical setting as a staff and supervising therapist. She has experience treating patients with neurological, musculoskeletal and orthopedic conditions, including the pediatric population.