Physical Therapist Assistant

Video tutorial on the Rehabilitation Reference Center created by EBSCO Publishing.

Of all the health care disciplines, physical therapy may require the widest range of talents and interests. This program profiles the jobs of physical therapy assistant and aide, detailing their responsibilities, essential skills, and differences. The video explores the duties the assistant and aide must perform—such as helping patients under the supervision of a physical therapist, performing treatments according to customized programs, observing and reporting patient behavior, and providing physical and emotional encouragement. The skill set outlined in the video includes an in-depth knowledge of human anatomy as well as the ability to work with ill and disabled people, collaborate with and serve under other health professionals, and maintain one’s own physical fitness, motivation, and organization. Educational requirements are also addressed—most importantly, graduating from an APTA-accredited program. A viewable/printable instructor’s guide containing additional material—including student activities, discussion questions, vocabulary terms, and fast facts—is available online. Correlates to national and state board certification standards. A Meridian Production. (23 minutes)