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Physical Therapist Aides

SOC 31-2022.00Job Zone 2 · Some Preparationv.26.05

Context coveredThis framework covers physical therapist aide practice in outpatient rehabilitation clinics, hospital-based therapy departments, and inpatient rehabilitation units, spanning entry-level task execution through departmental leadership and team development.

Sources:O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.SkillsCrosswalkSkillsCrosswalk — O*NET enrichment + adjacency index. Opens in new tab.
Emerging
Entry / Apprentice
  1. Treatment area and therapy equipment — clean, disinfect, and organize following facility infection-control protocols after each patient session.
  2. Bed linens and pillow cases — replace and dispose of soiled materials under direct supervision in an outpatient or inpatient therapy setting.
  3. Patient safety straps and positioning supports — apply to secure patients onto therapy equipment under the close guidance of a licensed physical therapist.
  4. Wheelchair transport procedures — assist in moving patients to and from designated treatment areas while following safe-patient-handling guidelines.
  5. Basic therapy instructions — listen actively and follow verbal directions from supervising physical therapy staff during patient treatment sessions.
  6. Patient observation data — recognize and report visible changes in a patient's comfort or response to a supervising therapist during routine exercises.
  7. Simple therapeutic exercises — assist patients in completing assigned movements under step-by-step direction from licensed medical staff.
  8. Patient intake paperwork and schedule entries — read and interpret written instructions using office suite software to prepare for daily therapy assignments.
  9. Standing support techniques — provide physical assistance to patients transitioning between seated and upright positions under direct staff supervision.
  10. Therapy facility policies and safety protocols — demonstrate basic understanding and follow written procedures during the initial on-the-job training period.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Post-treatment equipment disinfection routines — perform independently and consistently across multiple therapy rooms in an outpatient rehabilitation clinic.
  2. Patient transfers and wheelchair transport — execute safely with minimal oversight, applying proper body mechanics and safe-patient-handling standards throughout a full workday.
  3. Therapeutic exercise sessions — instruct and motivate patients through prescribed exercise routines, monitoring for fatigue or pain responses in a supervised outpatient gym.
  4. Heat, light, and water modality setups — prepare and apply basic therapeutic modalities, such as hot packs or whirlpool baths, following the supervising therapist's written treatment plan.
  5. Patient progress observations — compile structured notes on patient responses during treatment and relay findings clearly to the physical therapist using departmental documentation forms.
  6. Treatment planning discussions — participate in brief interdisciplinary check-ins with physical therapy staff, contributing relevant patient observations to support care coordination.
  7. Therapeutic massage techniques — administer passive manual therapies as directed, adjusting pressure and positioning based on patient feedback within a familiar clinical setting.
  8. Electronic scheduling and patient records — update calendar and scheduling software entries and send routine email communications to coordinate therapy appointments.
  9. Patient linen and supply inventory — manage restocking of clean linens and disposable supplies between sessions to maintain uninterrupted clinic operations.
  10. Active learning from clinical feedback — incorporate corrections and technique adjustments from supervising therapists into ongoing patient care practice within a rehabilitation department.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. Full-scope aide responsibilities — execute all daily tasks autonomously, including equipment setup, patient transport, exercise instruction, and post-treatment cleanup, across a busy outpatient or hospital-based therapy department.
  2. Complex patient observation and reporting — evaluate and document nuanced changes in patient functional progress or adverse responses and communicate findings using structured written reports reviewed by the physical therapist.
  3. Adaptive exercise assistance — modify instructional approach and physical support techniques for patients with varied mobility limitations, behavioral challenges, or comorbidities in a non-routine clinical scenario.
  4. Therapeutic modality administration — apply a broad range of modalities, including ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and therapeutic massage, consistently and accurately according to individualized treatment plans.
  5. Patient-centered communication — use social perceptiveness and empathetic speaking skills to motivate patients experiencing pain or discouragement, sustaining engagement throughout the rehabilitation process.
  6. Multidisciplinary care coordination — confer regularly with physical therapists, nursing staff, and case managers to share patient data and contribute to modifications in treatment plans.
  7. Time management across high-volume caseloads — prioritize and sequence patient transport, treatment setup, and documentation tasks efficiently during peak clinic hours without compromising care quality.
  8. Safety incident recognition and escalation — identify early warning signs of patient distress or equipment malfunction and initiate the appropriate clinical response protocol in an inpatient rehabilitation unit.
  9. New aide orientation support — demonstrate correct procedures for equipment use, patient securing, and hygiene protocols to newly hired aides under the guidance of supervising therapists.
  10. Medical software utilization — accurately enter, retrieve, and cross-reference patient treatment data within departmental medical software to support continuity of care across shift changes.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Departmental workflow systems — design and implement standardized aide scheduling, supply management, and patient transport protocols that optimize throughput across a multi-room rehabilitation department.
  2. Aide team performance and development — coach and evaluate a team of physical therapist aides, providing structured feedback and facilitating skills development aligned with facility competency standards.
  3. Clinical quality improvement initiatives — lead data collection and analysis on aide-delivered treatment outcomes, presenting findings and recommending process changes to physical therapy leadership.
  4. Interdisciplinary collaboration strategy — serve as the primary liaison between aide staff and licensed therapy professionals, ensuring consistent information exchange and coordinated patient care planning.
  5. New staff training curriculum — develop and deliver onboarding programs covering therapeutic techniques, safety protocols, modality administration, and documentation practices for an entire rehabilitation support team.
  6. Technology integration and adoption — evaluate, recommend, and train staff on medical software, scheduling platforms, and electronic communication tools to improve departmental efficiency and record accuracy.
  7. Patient safety culture — champion and enforce adherence to safe-patient-handling standards, infection control practices, and equipment maintenance schedules across all aide staff in the facility.
  8. Regulatory and policy compliance — interpret updated healthcare regulations and translate requirements into operational procedures, ensuring the aide team meets accreditation and compliance standards.
  9. Mentorship and professional growth planning — identify high-potential aides and guide their development through targeted learning opportunities, supporting advancement within the healthcare support career pathway.
  10. Stakeholder reporting and administrative communication — prepare comprehensive written summaries of aide team activities, patient volume trends, and operational challenges for presentation to physical therapy directors and facility administrators.

AI-at-Work Competency Framework

Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Authoritative source data identified for 998 occupations

How a worker at each mastery level uses, directs, and evaluates AI tools in this occupation. Each statement cites its evidence inline; click a citation chip to verify the source.

Emerging
  1. Basic AI tool orientation — uses clinic-provided AI documentation tools to look up equipment cleaning protocols and disinfection schedules, following step-by-step on-screen guidance.
Developing
  1. Patient observation logging — enters structured notes on patient responses and exercise progress into an AI-assisted documentation system, allowing the tool to flag anomalies for physical therapist review Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Equipment and schedule coordination — uses AI-powered scheduling or inventory tools to track therapy equipment availability and prep tasks, freeing attention for direct patient support WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Proficient
  1. Progress data synthesis — compiles patient response observations into an AI-assisted reporting interface that organizes data trends, then verifies accuracy before handing the summary to the supervising physical therapist Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Guided instruction support — references AI-generated exercise cue prompts on a tablet during patient sessions, adapting delivery in real time based on active listening and social perceptiveness rather than relying solely on the AI output Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  3. Treatment modification conferencing — brings AI-organized patient data summaries to team check-ins, enabling more focused discussion with physical therapy staff about adjusting or coordinating treatment plans WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Advanced
  1. Workflow integration advocacy — evaluates multiple AI-assisted documentation and monitoring tools against actual patient-safety and workflow needs, recommends adoption or rejection to clinical supervisors based on observed outcomes Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. AI output quality gating — identifies when AI-generated patient progress summaries contain errors or omit safety-relevant observations, corrects the record, and flags the pattern to inform system improvement Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
Evidence pack
SAFI positioning
Top skill: Active Listening
Score: 42.2 / 100
Quadrant: Q2_ai_augmented
precision: exact
WEF cluster
Human-Technology Interaction
human_technology_interaction
Sources:Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.

Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework

Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Ten durable-skill domains mapped to four proficiency/role levels for each occupation. Each statement is aligned to the Pathsmith taxonomy, derived from trusted grounding data and mapped to occupation-specific O*NET tasks and skills.

1Communication8 statements
Emerging
  1. Patient intake acknowledgment — relays basic patient arrival information to physical therapy staff using standard clinic terminology Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Exercise instruction delivery — repeats verbal directions for simple therapeutic exercises as scripted by the supervising physical therapist O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Progress observation reporting — communicates patient responses during treatment sessions to the physical therapist using observable, objective language Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Patient reassurance communication — explains upcoming equipment or modality procedures to patients in plain language to reduce anxiety before treatment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Treatment coordination dialogue — confers with physical therapy staff to discuss and accurately relay patient information relevant to modifying or planning treatment sessions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Adaptive instruction delivery — adjusts verbal and nonverbal communication style to match patient comprehension level, age, and physical condition during exercise guidance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Interdisciplinary information relay — synthesizes and accurately communicates patient progress observations across therapy team members, contributing to cohesive treatment planning discussions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. New aide communication mentorship — models clear, patient-centered communication techniques for incoming aides during supervised treatment sessions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
2Leadership8 statements
Emerging
  1. Task initiation — begins assigned preparation duties such as equipment setup and linen changes without requiring repeated prompting from supervising staff Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Patient safety readiness — takes initiative to ensure treatment area is clean and hazard-free before patient arrival under supervisor direction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Workflow self-management — organizes and prioritizes multiple patient transport and setup tasks across a shift to maintain clinic throughput under therapist oversight Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Peer task support — assists less experienced aides in locating equipment or completing setup procedures when supervising staff are occupied Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Patient motivation facilitation — guides and encourages patients through exercise routines, maintaining their engagement and effort consistent with therapist-prescribed goals Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Incident response ownership — identifies and immediately escalates patient safety concerns such as equipment failure or adverse reactions, taking responsibility for initiating the alert chain Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Clinic readiness leadership — drives consistent adherence to disinfection, equipment organization, and safety protocols across the aide team through visible example and informal coaching Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Process improvement initiative — identifies recurring workflow inefficiencies in patient transport or treatment area turnover and proposes structured solutions to the therapy team Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
3Metacognition8 statements
Emerging
  1. Skill gap recognition — identifies personal uncertainties about specific modality procedures and seeks clarification from the supervising physical therapist before proceeding Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Task reflection — reviews completed patient preparation tasks at end of shift to identify steps missed or performed incorrectly Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Learning strategy adaptation — selects observation, hands-on practice, or written review as the most effective method for internalizing new therapeutic exercise protocols Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Error pattern awareness — recognizes recurring mistakes in equipment securing or patient positioning and self-corrects approach before seeking external feedback Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Performance self-monitoring — evaluates own execution of passive manual exercises against therapist-modeled technique during and after patient sessions to maintain quality Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Workload cognitive management — monitors personal attention and fatigue levels across a patient-dense shift and applies deliberate focus strategies to maintain safe care standards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Reflective practice modeling — articulates self-assessment routines to new aides, demonstrating how to identify knowledge gaps and seek targeted skill development within clinic protocols Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Continuous competency mapping — systematically tracks personal proficiency across modality types and therapeutic techniques, directing self-improvement efforts toward identified gaps Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking8 statements
Emerging
  1. Observation data collection — records patient responses such as grimacing, guarding, or verbal complaints during exercises as factual data points for therapist review Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Safety signal recognition — identifies visible signs of patient distress or equipment malfunction and stops activity pending therapist assessment O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Response pattern evaluation — compares patient's current session behavior against prior session observations to detect meaningful changes in tolerance or progress Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Protocol-reality gap identification — recognizes when a prescribed exercise setup appears inconsistent with a patient's current physical condition and flags the discrepancy to the therapist Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Treatment data synthesis — compiles objective observational data across multiple patient sessions into structured reports that support the physical therapist's evaluation of treatment effectiveness Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Equipment appropriateness assessment — evaluates whether selected assistive or positioning equipment matches the patient's size, condition, and prescribed activity before securing the patient Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Anomaly-driven escalation — distinguishes between expected patient discomfort and clinically significant adverse responses, applying evidence-based reasoning to determine urgency of therapist notification Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Protocol critique contribution — analyzes observed patterns across multiple patients to offer data-informed observations to the therapy team that support treatment plan refinement Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration8 statements
Emerging
  1. Care team participation — accepts assigned patient preparation and transport tasks as part of the broader therapy team workflow without requiring task rationale explanation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Information handoff compliance — passes patient status notes to the physical therapist in the format and timing the clinic requires O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Cross-role coordination — aligns patient transport scheduling with therapy session timing by proactively communicating readiness status to physical therapy staff Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Shared workspace maintenance — coordinates with other aides to ensure treatment rooms, equipment, and linens are consistently prepared between back-to-back patient sessions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Treatment planning input — contributes relevant patient behavioral observations during team check-ins, enabling therapists to make informed adjustments to exercise prescriptions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Multi-aide patient support — coordinates with a second aide during transfers or equipment securing for patients with complex mobility limitations, maintaining synchronized movement for safety Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Interdisciplinary team integration — actively participates in patient care discussions with physical therapists, identifying how aide-level observations connect to broader therapeutic goals Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Collaborative culture building — fosters a reliable, communicative working dynamic among the aide team that reduces errors during high-volume clinic periods Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
6Character8 statements
Emerging
  1. Patient dignity maintenance — handles patients during transfers and positioning with respectful physical contact and privacy-preserving practices at all times Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Protocol adherence — follows disinfection and equipment cleaning procedures consistently regardless of time pressure or supervision level Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Accountability in error reporting — reports own procedural mistakes such as incorrect patient positioning or equipment misuse directly to the supervising therapist without minimizing the incident Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Confidentiality practice — protects patient information encountered during treatment coordination by limiting discussion to appropriate clinical contexts Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Ethical boundary maintenance — declines patient requests that fall outside the aide scope of practice and redirects appropriately to the physical therapist without creating patient distress Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Consistent professionalism — maintains composed, respectful demeanor with patients experiencing pain, frustration, or slow progress across an entire shift Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Integrity modeling — demonstrates and articulates to peers the clinical and ethical importance of accurate patient observation reporting, even when observations suggest treatment is not progressing Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Safety culture stewardship — holds self and peers accountable to infection control and patient safety standards by addressing deviations directly and constructively Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
7Creativity8 statements
Emerging
  1. Motivational language variation — experiments with different encouraging phrases and tones to identify what sustains individual patient effort during repetitive exercise routines Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Setup problem-solving — finds an acceptable alternative equipment configuration when standard setup is unavailable, within the therapist-approved parameters Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Patient engagement adaptation — introduces approved variations in exercise pacing or verbal cueing to re-engage patients who show declining motivation mid-session Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Workflow improvisation — devises an efficient room turnover sequence during unexpectedly high-volume clinic periods that maintains safety and cleanliness standards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Therapeutic environment optimization — rearranges treatment area layout within safety guidelines to better accommodate a patient's mobility limitations and therapist access needs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Communication approach innovation — develops a gesture-based cueing system for patients with language barriers to facilitate safe exercise instruction under therapist approval Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Process improvement design — proposes and pilots a revised equipment disinfection workflow that reduces turnover time without compromising infection control standards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Patient motivation strategy development — creates a session-tracking visual tool that helps patients perceive incremental functional progress, improving adherence to prescribed exercise routines Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset8 statements
Emerging
  1. Feedback receptivity — accepts correction from the supervising physical therapist on patient positioning or modality technique and applies the adjustment in the same session Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. New procedure engagement — attempts unfamiliar equipment setup or therapeutic massage technique under supervision rather than deferring the task to others Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Skill repetition persistence — continues practicing manual exercise support techniques across multiple patient sessions to improve precision and safety even when initial performance is inconsistent Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Challenge reframing — approaches difficult patient interactions such as resistance to exercise or pain-related non-compliance as opportunities to develop more effective motivational strategies Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Learning from adverse events — analyzes near-miss incidents such as a patient almost losing balance during transfer and applies specific behavioral changes to prevent recurrence Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-modality skill development — voluntarily seeks exposure to unfamiliar treatment modalities such as ultrasound or electrical stimulation setup to expand functional competency in the clinic Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Mastery pursuit modeling — demonstrates to newer aides that sustained effort and openness to correction are how technical proficiency in patient handling is built over time Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Career development drive — identifies formal training pathways in physical therapy assistance and pursues incremental credentials that expand scope of practice within the clinical team Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness8 statements
Emerging
  1. Present-task focus — maintains attention on the current patient during transport or equipment securing without diverting to unrelated conversations or clinic activity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Emotional tone awareness — notices when personal frustration or fatigue is affecting tone with patients and pauses briefly to reset before continuing the interaction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Patient cue attentiveness — sustains deliberate observation of patient facial expressions, posture, and movement quality during exercises to detect discomfort signals in real time Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Transition intentionality — pauses between patient sessions to mentally reset and review the next patient's needs before beginning preparation, reducing setup errors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. High-load session composure — maintains calm, deliberate physical handling and communication during simultaneous patient transport and therapist coordination demands without rushing unsafe actions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Sensory environment monitoring — actively attends to ambient clinic conditions such as wet floors, equipment placement, and noise levels that affect patient and staff safety Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Regulated presence under stress — sustains composed, patient-centered demeanor during emergency-level events such as patient falls or medical episodes, applying learned regulation strategies until the therapist assumes control Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Intentional attention modeling — coaches other aides to practice deliberate observation habits during patient sessions as a core component of safe, quality care delivery Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
10Fortitude8 statements
Emerging
  1. Physical demand persistence — maintains consistent effort through physically demanding tasks such as repeated patient transfers across an eight-hour shift without safety compromise Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Difficult patient tolerance — continues supportive, professional engagement with patients who resist exercises or express frustration without withdrawing assistance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Slow-progress patience — sustains motivational support for patients whose functional recovery is incremental and whose progress is not visibly apparent across weeks of treatment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. High-demand shift resilience — maintains accuracy in patient observation and equipment hygiene during unexpectedly high-volume clinic days without reducing safety standards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Emotionally taxing case endurance — continues professional, compassionate care for patients in significant pain or with poor prognosis without allowing secondary stress to degrade performance quality Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Uncertainty navigation — continues executing assigned duties competently during periods of staff shortage or therapist unavailability, operating within scope and flagging issues proactively Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Sustained adversity leadership — remains a stabilizing, effective presence during prolonged clinic disruptions such as staff turnover or facility challenges, maintaining peer morale and care standards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Courageous safety advocacy — raises patient safety concerns to clinical supervisors even when the issue involves challenging an established practice or disrupting clinic workflow Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Show O*NET source anchors46 anchors · skillscrosswalk.com

O*NET enrichment · skillscrosswalk.com

Suggest an O*NET correction

Source anchors that ground each statement

Related titles
Aide · Outpatient Aide · Outpatient Therapy Aide · Physical Therapist Aide (PTA) · Physical Therapy Aide (PTA) · Physiotherapy Aide · PT Attendant (Physical Therapy Attendant) · PT Tech (Physical Therapist Technician) · PT Tech (Physical Therapy Technician) · Rehabilitation Aide · Rehabilitation Attendant · Rehabilitation Technician (Rehabilitation Tech)
RAPIDS apprenticeships
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O*NET skills
Active ListeningService OrientationMonitoringReading ComprehensionSocial PerceptivenessCoordinationActive LearningInstructingWritingSpeakingCritical ThinkingTime Management
Knowledge domains
Customer and Personal ServiceEnglish LanguageComputers and ElectronicsTherapy and Counseling
Abilities
Oral ComprehensionSpeech RecognitionProblem SensitivityOral ExpressionNear VisionInductive ReasoningInformation OrderingSelective AttentionTrunk StrengthSpeech Clarity
Work styles
CooperationDependabilityEmpathyAttention to DetailOptimismSocial Orientation
Technology
Medical softwareSpreadsheet softwareOffice suite softwareElectronic mail softwareWord processing softwareCalendar and scheduling software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Clean and organize work area and disinfect equipment after treatment.
  2. Secure patients into or onto therapy equipment.
  3. Instruct, motivate, safeguard, or assist patients practicing exercises or functional activities, under direction of medical staff.
  4. Confer with physical therapy staff or others to discuss and evaluate patient information for planning, modifying, or coordinating treatment.
  5. Observe patients during treatment to compile and evaluate data on patients' responses and progress and report to physical therapist.
  6. Change linens, such as bed sheets and pillow cases.
  7. Administer active or passive manual therapeutic exercises, therapeutic massage, or heat, light, sound, water, or electrical modality treatments, such as ultrasound.
  8. Transport patients to and from treatment areas, using wheelchairs or providing standing support.
CIP education codes
51.260451.2605

Sources: O*NET v30.2 (CC BY 4.0), SkillsCrosswalk.com, LER.me, Anthropic Economic Index, SAFI (Jadhav & Danve, 2026), WEF Skills Taxonomy 2021, Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework. © 2026 EBSCOed.