Are Physical Therapist Assistants Satisfied with their Work?

Physical therapist assistants (PTAs) can be considered as the right-hand people of physical therapists. As a PTA you will work under the direct supervision of a qualified physical therapist to help individuals regain motion and heal muscle injuries.

Your job description as a physical therapist generally is outlined by the physical therapist who, upon the completion of examining a patient, draws up a treatment program plan. More often than not, the therapy entails different components that usually are usually targeted to prevent disability, restore mobility, alleviate pain, and re-establish physical functionality. It is in the implementation of these subsets of the treatment regimen that you as a PTA come deem fit by the physical therapist.

But do PTAs find their jobs satisfying? Let's take a look. 

Work Setting of a Physical Therapist Assistant

As a PTA you will always be on the move and on your feet setting up therapeutic rooms as well as taking care of patients. According to the American Physical Therapy Association, (APTA) 72% of PTAs work in a hospital setting. The remaining percentage being distributed in schools, home health, rehabilitation centers, research centers and fitness centers, just but to mention a few.

This active pace keeps PTAs fit, an important aspect of their work in keeping others mobile. 

The Making of A Physical Therapist Assistant

To cut out a niche in this profession, you will be required to obtain an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Physical Therapist Assisting from an accredited institution. The accreditation of these facilities is overseen by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).

Joining the ranks of practicing PTAs upon graduation is subject to passing the national licensure examination as stipulated by the law. The examinations are proctored by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT). To enhance quality and competence, each state has its own physical therapy board that may stipulate additional qualifications.

By ensuring their licensure and training is up to date, PTAs help patients regain their independence and autonomy. 

Desirable Soft Skills for PTA

The above are the essential quantifiable qualities that you need to demonstrate to earn your practicing badge. Nevertheless, possessing the below listed soft skills will go a long way in ensuring a seamless practice:

• Communication skills: active listening and passing information to your patient are key attributes towards achieving the desirable clinical outcome.
• Interpersonal skills: getting along well with clients is the first step in building a fruitful therapeutic session.
• Physical stamina: a lot of therapeutic skill will require energy dispensation. From bending to moving around immobile clients to working while standing dictates that you are comfortable with physical activities.
• Compassion: the people who come to see you might be dealing with all kinds of wounds, physical and mental. Having patience with a frustrated client or encouragement one who lacks confidence can make a world of difference.
• Dexterity: physical therapy is a hands-on type of job. You will be required to use your hands to carry out the therapeutic sessions.

Job Satisfaction for PTAs

As you can see, the work of a PTA may be extensive, but is often well worth it. You'll deal almost exclusively with patients on the mend--getting to see their progress and help lift their spirits is work that most PTAs find very satisfying. 

Are you interested in becoming a physical therapist assistant? With this much demand, there’s no time like the present to see if this wonderful path is for you! To learn more information about earning an Associate of Applied Science in Physical Therapist Assisting from ECPI University, connect with one of our friendly admissions advisors today.

It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!

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