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.

Links[edit | edit source]

Portobello Institute.