Detailed Overview
Under the direction of a Physiotherapist and / or Occupational Therapist, the Rehabilitation Assistant implements rehabilitative treatment plans and programs and assists the therapist in monitoring and evaluating patient progression.
Responsibilities Carries out designated components of a rehabilitative treatment plan / program, such as activities of daily living, mobility, and strengthening and balancing exercises.
Observes and reports cognitive and functional changes in patient ability or behaviour that may warrant a progression or regression of the treatment;
progresses treatment plan within the parameters established by the therapist; documents for the health record according to established procedures.
As part of a multidisciplinary team and in consultation with the therapist, provides input into the planning, implementation, modification, and evaluation of the rehabilitative treatment plan / program.
Performs various tests as assigned such as Berg Balance, Timed Up and Go (TUG), and six-minute walk test. Records and reports relevant data for interpretation by the therapist.
Prepares and applies therapeutic treatment modalities as assigned such as transcutaneous electrical stimulation (TENS), neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES), hot packs, ice, and wax treatments.
Provides functional skills training to patients and families in activities of daily living, mobility and communication; demonstrates the use of assistive devices.
Assists with power and manual wheelchair mobility training. Assists in the fabrication and modifications of splints, seating and exercise devices, mobility and assistive devices.
Sets up and adapts equipment such as changing wheelchair backs and adjusting wheelchair height. Maintains therapy equipment and supplies by methods such as cleaning equipment and maintaining inventories;
provides input regarding purchase of new equipment and supplies, general maintenance and repair of equipment. Performs other related duties as assigned.
Qualifications Education and Experience Completion of a Rehabilitation Assistant Program or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.
Skills and Abilities Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. Ability to deal with others effectively.
Physical ability to carry out the duties of the position. Ability to organize work. Ability to operate related equipment.