What does a Rehab Aide do?
Published 3 min read
A rehab aide is a person who helps patients with physical therapy exercises and activities.
Rehab Aide job duties include:
- Assist patients with physical therapy exercises and activities
- Help patients move in and out of beds, chairs, wheelchairs, etc.
- Perform range-of-motion and other exercises with patients
- Observe patients during therapy and report any changes to the therapist
- Assist in the development of patient treatment plans
- Transport patients to and from therapy sessions
- Clean and maintain therapy equipment and supplies
- Maintain accurate patient records and documentation
- Schedule appointments and track patient progress
Rehab Aide Job Requirements
There are a few job requirements for a Rehab Aide. Firstly, you need at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Secondly, you must have completed a certified nursing assistant program and have a valid certification. Finally, you should have some experience working with patients in a healthcare setting.
Rehab Aide Skills
- Patience
- Empathy
- Communication
- Active Listening
- Instructing
- Motivating
- Behavior Management
- Observation
- Documentation
- Interpersonal Skills
- Flexibility
Related: Top Rehab Aide Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become a Rehab Aide
A Rehab Aide is a professional who helps people with physical disabilities recover from their injuries and improve their quality of life. There are many ways to become a Rehab Aide, but the most common path is to complete a certificate or associate’s degree program in rehabilitation science.
Most Rehab Aides have at least a high school diploma, although some jobs may require postsecondary education, such as an associate’s degree in rehabilitation science. Many community colleges offer this type of program, which can be completed in two years. During your studies, you will take classes such as human anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and psychology. These courses will give you the knowledge you need to help your patients recover from their injuries and improve their quality of life.
After completing your education, you will need to obtain certification from the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). To be eligible for the NBCOT exam, you must have completed an accredited rehabilitation science program. Once you pass the NBCOT exam, you will be a Certified Rehabilitation Aide (CRA).
Once you become a CRA, you can begin working with patients in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, and home health agencies. You will work closely with other healthcare professionals, such as occupational therapists, physical therapists, and speech-language pathologists, to help your patients achieve their rehabilitation goals.
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