What is a rehab technician?

A rehab technician, also known as a rehabilitation technician or rehabilitation aide, is a healthcare professional who works under the supervision of physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech-language pathologists to provide rehabilitative care to patients with injuries, illnesses, or disabilities. Rehab technicians assist patients with exercises, activities, and treatments designed to improve their physical, cognitive, and functional abilities.

Here are some of the tasks that rehab technicians may perform:

- Help patients with mobility exercises, such as walking, standing, and transferring from one surface to another

- Assist patients with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and eating

- Provide support during therapeutic interventions, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy

- Monitor patients' progress and report any changes to the supervising therapist

- Educate patients and their families about rehabilitation programs and techniques

- Maintain patient records and documentation

- Set up and maintain rehabilitation equipment

- Ensure patient safety and comfort during treatment sessions

Rehab technicians typically work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, and skilled nursing facilities. They may also work in schools, community health centers, or private practices.

To become a rehab technician, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may also complete a certificate or associate degree program in rehabilitation therapy. Some states require rehab technicians to be certified or licensed.