Physical Therapist Assistant / PTA

As a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) at Ochsner Rehabilitation Hospital, your core responsibilities include assisting licensed Physical Therapists in carrying out therapeutic plans for patients. You'll also manage supportive staff, communicate effectively with PTs regarding patient progress and needs, and engage in patient education. The goal is to ensure patients receive high-quality care tailored to their rehabilitation goals.

To apply for the Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) position at Ochsner Rehabilitation Hospital, you must hold current state licensure or be eligible for licensure. Additionally, candidates need to be certified in Basic Life Support (BLS) within their first 90 days of employment. Experience in a clinical setting is preferred, especially for home care requirements.

The pay range for a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) at Ochsner Rehabilitation Hospital is competitive, offering between $25.00 to $38.00 per hour, depending on your years of experience. This rate reflects our commitment to providing a rewarding compensation package for skilled professionals.

At Ochsner Rehabilitation Hospital, Physical Therapist Assistants benefit from a comprehensive package that includes health, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, extended illness days, and tuition reimbursement for continuing education. You’ll also have access to a 401(k) retirement plan and a supportive work environment that values diversity and professional growth.

If you're interested in the Physical Therapist Assistant position at Ochsner Rehabilitation Hospital but want to learn more before applying, you can easily schedule a call with our Sr. Regional Recruiter, Elizabeth. This is a great opportunity to ask questions and understand more about the role, the team, and the culture at Ochsner.

When dealing with difficult patients, I focus on active listening to understand their concerns and building rapport with them. I try to empathize with their situation and work collaboratively with the supervising PT to adjust treatment plans that better suit their comfort and willingness to participate.

At my previous job, there was an instance where a patient required a multifaceted approach due to complex needs. I collaborated closely with my supervising PT and other healthcare professionals to implement an integrated care plan, ensuring that everyone involved was aligned, which ultimately benefited the patient’s recovery process.

Motivating patients can sometimes be challenging, so I use positive reinforcement and set achievable goals to encourage them. I constantly celebrate small victories with them during therapy, and I remain enthusiastic about their progress, reminding them of the bigger picture of regaining their independence.

I believe in clear, straightforward communication. I take the time to explain the rehabilitation process, setting expectations based on the patient’s condition. I provide informational resources and encourage questions, ensuring that both patients and families feel informed and confident about their roles in the process.

Staying current in physical therapy is vital, so I regularly attend workshops, read industry-related literature, and participate in professional organizations. I also value peer discussions as a way to learn from my colleagues' experiences and implement best practices in my work.

I have comprehensive experience using electronic medical records systems to document patient progress and interventions. I find EMRs essential for ensuring accurate, organized, and accessible patient information, which is crucial for effective communication and care coordination within the healthcare team.

One challenge I faced was managing patients’ expectations during their recovery process. I addressed this by fostering open communication, setting realistic short-term goals, and providing continuous support and encouragement, ensuring they remained engaged and hopeful throughout their rehabilitation.

I prioritize tasks based on patient needs and scheduled appointments. Time management is key in our field, so I create a daily checklist that allows me to ensure all patients receive the attention they require while balancing administrative responsibilities efficiently.

Compassion is an integral part of being a Physical Therapist Assistant. It helps me connect with patients on a personal level, understand their struggles, and provide care that’s not only physical therapeutic but also emotionally supportive, fostering an environment that encourages healing.

I admire Ochsner Rehabilitation Hospital's commitment to high-quality patient care and the comprehensive support they provide to their staff. The focus on professional growth and a diverse work environment aligns with my career goals and values, making it a place I’m excited to contribute to.