Physical Therapist Aide how-to

How to Guide Assigned Exercises

Aides help patients follow plans.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Aides help patients follow plans. In short: check; set; demonstrate, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Check the exercise sheet.

  2. Set up equipment.

  3. Demonstrate if allowed.

  4. Count reps.

  5. Watch for pain.

  6. Tell the PT about concerns.

Safety reminders for physical therapist aides

  • Check skin with hot and cold packs
  • Use safe lifting
  • Follow infection control
  • Report concerns to the PT

Hot pack · Cold pack · Treatment table · Exercise flow sheet · Gait belt · Transfer: see the full physical therapist aide glossary.

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