Final answer:
The physical therapist is responsible for supervising and directing the physical therapist assistant in the treatment of a patient.
Step-by-step explanation:
The physical therapist is responsible for providing supervision and direction to the physical therapist assistant in the treatment of a given patient. The physical therapist evaluates the patient's condition, designs a treatment plan, and then oversees the implementation of that plan by the physical therapist assistant.
For example, if a patient needs to practice walking with crutches as part of their treatment, the physical therapist would assess the patient's ability to use the crutches, determine the appropriate technique, and then guide the physical therapist assistant in instructing the patient and monitoring their progress.