If you have an interest and passion to help others, pursuing a career as a physical therapist assistant (PTA) could be something worth considering. Physical therapist assistants can work with athletes, the elderly, and people with disabilities. PTA is not only a rewarding, in-demand career, but also an intriguing chance to help improve the lives of people in need of rehabilitative care, those recovering from traumatic injuries or illness, and elderly citizens in need of long-term supportive care.
Florida National University offers two PTA programs:
- Bachelor of Science Degree in Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)
- Associate of Science Degree in Physical Therapist Assistant
Today’s health care system is in desperate need of PTAs in health care support programs. The demand for physical therapy services is expanding rapidly in all parts of the United States. If you’re intrigued by helping someone recover physically, you should consider Florida National University’s PTA programs. But what does a physical therapist do all day? Here is how a typical day in a PTA’s work looks like.
Preparing for the Day
Physical therapist assistant jobs are an integral part of America’s robust healthcare system. PTAs have flexible work schedules depending on their field of employment.
They offer services in a wide variety of medical procedures and facilities ranging from hospitals and convalescent homes to outpatient clinics. All physical therapist assistants have common duties despite working in diverse health care amenities.
Reviewing recommendations by the physical therapist or supervising physician
It is worth mentioning that a PTA’s job is not part of emergency treatment. And so, a PTA does not face unexpected shifts or overtime. Every PTA starts the day by reviewing documentation from the therapist to understand any special instructions and therapy that must be performed on a specific patient.
Evaluating new patients
PTAs play an essential role in the patients’ evaluation team. They work directly with therapists to develop a long-term treatment physical therapy course for each specific patient. Physical therapist assistants are always responsible for evaluating the effectiveness of the proposed physical therapy.
The Most Common Therapy Sessions in a PTA’s Day
A physical therapist assistant’s day involves various therapy sessions with different patients. These sessions vary from patient to patient because of differences in treatment strategies. These sessions could include:
- Transfer training
This is the most common therapy for most mobility impairments. PTAs spend time teaching and helping patients move from one place to another. The transfer training program also incorporates family members and other caregivers who will continue helping the patient safely move from the wheelchair to other places once discharged. - Therapeutic exercise
Therapeutic exercise is the most common routine program used to help patients to get back their strength after a long stay in hospital beds. The program helps the patient regain their coordination and endurance. PTAs working in nursing homes use this therapy to assist the elderly to enhance their mental and physical capabilities. - Gait training
Physical therapist assistants use this therapy on patients like soldiers who have suffered traumatic injuries. Gait training involves helping patients walk again, especially after being bed-bound for a long period. - Physical therapy after losing a limb
Another important physical therapy activity includes training patients who have lost a limb on how to effectively use a prosthetic arm or leg.
Finishing the Busy Day
A physical therapist assistant files reports after providing vital care thought the day. The records of every therapy session help the therapists keep track of the patients’ progress.
Are you interested in learning more about Florida National University’s Physical Therapist Assistant programs? Get more information on FNU’s Physical Therapist Assistant program by requesting information or calling FNU at 305-821-3333.
