Working as a Physiotherapy Assistant in Ireland
Original Editors - Claire Adams as part of the UCD Final Year Project: What Next? Top Contributors - Admin, Kim Jackson and Claire Adams
Role[edit | edit source]
Works under the supervision of a physiotherapist; works in close contact with patients to help them implement their treatment programmes achieve goals set for them.
Activities[edit | edit source]
- Instructing patients in exercise therapy and the use of mobility aids
- Offering advice and encouragement with a planned treatment programme
- Preparing patients for therapy
- Setting up equipment
- Monitoring the progress of patients and reporting back to the physiotherapist.
- Record keeping and administration duties.
- Keeping the treatment area’s clean and tidy.
Qualification:[edit | edit source]
1 year full time course.
FETAC level 5 major award in Health Service Skills DHSSX.
Location: Cork, Dublin, Galway.
Course Content[edit | edit source]
- Care support
- Communications
- Workplace statutory policies
- Work experience
- Infection prevention and control
- Physiotherapy assistant theory and practise
- Rehabilitation support
- Human Growth and development.
Entry[edit | edit source]
- Direct application to the college
- No point requirements
Grading[edit | edit source]
- 50%- Practical examination
- 50% - written assignment
Other Requirements[edit | edit source]
- Students will have been certified with Irish Heart Foundation level 3 heart saver CPR.
- In New Zealand, physiotherapy assistant also works in occupational and speech and language departments.
- Can often be voluntary work.
Benefits For a Trained Physiotherapist[edit | edit source]
- Working within a physiotherapy department
- Make contacts for the future.
- Able to continue CPD.