Physical Therapist Assistant

This course introduces the student to ethical conduct, standards of practice, the role and responsibilities of a physical therapist assistant, the history of physical therapy and the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), documentation, problem-oriented medical records, and patient-therapist communication. Students may take this course in the last quarter of general education courses.

Pathophysiology is an introductory study of disease processes in humans. Disease signs, symptoms, complications, as well as physical, clinical, and laboratory findings are reviewed by body system. Emphasis is placed on those conditions which will be seen by physical therapists or which, if present, will have an impact on the physical therapy care of patients. Treatment, medication, prognosis, precautions, and ramifications for physical therapy are also presented.

This course covers the scope of the biomechanically appropriate movement of the body parts with regard to muscle action, neuromuscular innervations, neuromuscular function and dysfunction related to abnormal postures and motion.

This course prepares the student to assess accurately and objectively the parameters of strength, motion, muscle length, mass, dimensions, response to exercise, and functional abilities evaluated by the physical therapist in order to determine progress toward therapist established goals of treatment. The understanding of the use of these measures to document progress and to guide the treatment program will be developed.

This course addresses the techniques and effects of physical agents such as thermal, ultrasound, biofeedback, diathermy, compression, traction, hydrotherapy, and electrical stimulation as treatment and/or facilitator.

This course allows the student to apply aspects of pathophysiology, body structure and function, and activity as it applies to basic physical therapy procedures utilized to safely guide the patient to maximum independence in activities of daily living (ADLs) and mobility. The student will learn and apply basic principles of body mechanics and the application of these to safe patient handling. The student will learn to assess needs and instruct in ADL techniques, as well as to fit and instruct patients in the safe use of assistive and orthotic devices. Instruction in wound care, in lower extremity amputations and prosthetics, in wheelchair management, in architectural barriers, and in pulmonary care is provided. Intervention techniques pertinent to the above topics are taught and practiced to develop the fundamentals of patient care.

PTA2021 studies the use of exercise techniques to impact the musculoskeletal system to increase strength, normalize range of motion, improve balance and coordination in the performance of movement, correct postural dysfunction, and promote wellness. Students will also study measurement techniques appropriate to exercise programs.

This course presents the biophysical principles, physiological effects, and clinical application of physical agents, including thermal agents, electrical currents and electromagnetic agents, and mechanical agents. Foundational concepts in therapeutic exercise are introduced, including interventions to promote health and wellness, prevent injuries, and improve movement and function. Special considerations for older individuals, the cardiovascular system, and the lymphatic system are also addressed.

This course expands on the concepts and techniques presented in Therapeutic Interventions I to address the management of cardiopulmonary and musculoskeletal conditions through advanced application of physical agents, manual techniques, therapeutic exercise, and functional training. Clinical problem-solving and decision-making in the implementation and modification of physical therapy interventions is emphasized.

This course introduces the student to the theory and practice of advanced rehabilitation techniques for the complex and multiply diagnosed individual. Emphasis is on the patient with neurological dysfunction, as well as those with special rehabilitation needs due to mental and cognitive disorders.

Students will integrate didactic and laboratory learning by demonstrating selected clinical competencies under the direct supervision of a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant. Competencies will focus on safety, professional clinical behaviors, and practice of clinical skills. This course includes unpaid clinical externship hours.

This is a 240-hour unpaid clinical externship through which students perform and validate their professional competencies under the direct supervision of a license physical therapist or physical therapist assistant. Pass/Fail.

This is a lecture discussion course consisting of presentations designed to acquaint the student with the latest practice techniques and venues used in the care of patients requiring physical therapy intervention. Presentations will be made by local clinicians as well as by students, based on an independent study conducted during the full-time clinical rotation, PTA2048.

This course expands on evidence-based practice and teaches foundational principles for independent, lifelong learning. Students will also apply knowledge and skills from previous coursework to prepare for work as physical therapist assistants in a variety of settings. Emphasis is placed on ethical conduct, practice regulation, community service and effective communication skills.

This course focuses on a review of pathologies that could require physical therapy intervention in clients through the life span. The course will include discussion of diagnoses and associated physical therapy interventions for the neonate, child, and adolescent; physical therapy interventions for women's health issues including pregnancy; the effect of aging on multiple systems; and end of life care. It is meant as a final preparatory course before the student goes out into the clinic.

This is a 280-hour unpaid clinical externship through which students perform and validate their professional competencies under the direct supervision of a license physical therapist or physical therapist assistant. Pass/Fail.

This course promotes student integration of knowledge and skills from previous coursework and the first clinical experience. Students gain foundations in career readiness and lifelong learning, while investigating the role of the physical therapist assistant in specialty areas of physical therapy and working with diverse patient populations. Students will perform therapeutic interventions in wound care, lymphedema management, and vestibular rehabilitation.

This is a 360-hour unpaid clinical externship through which students perform and validate their professional competencies under the direct supervision of a licensed physical therapist or physical therapist assistant. Pass/Fail.