Course Descriptions By Program

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PTA100 - Introduction to Physical Therapist Assistant

An overview of the discipline of physical therapy and the role and function of the physical therapist assistant within the physical therapist-physical therapist assistant team. Additional topics include examinations of the history of physical therapy, physical therapy professional organizations, legal and ethical issues, and commonly encountered pathologies.

PTA101 - Basic Physical Therapy Procedures

This course provides an introduction to basic physical therapy patient care procedures in a laboratory format. Topics covered include body mechanics, positioning and draping, vital signs, basic exercise, transfer activities, wheelchair features and activities, ambulation aids and activities, infection control, wound care, emergencies, and a review of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

PTA110 - Introduction to Pathology

This course examines the disease process on the cellular, histological and systemic levels. Particular emphasis is placed on those pathologies commonly encountered by the physical therapist assistant in pediatric, geriatric, orthopedic and neurological impairments.

PTA150 - Clinical Internship I

This introductory clinical internship provides the physical therapist assistant student with extensive observation of activities such as patient care, administration, quality assurance and supervision of other supportive personnel. In addition, students begin to treat patients under the direction of the physical therapist using principles common to all procedures.

PTA200 - Professional Issues in Physical Therapy

This course is an examination of the legal, ethical and professional aspects of a career in physical therapy. Important issues such as liability, malpractice, proactive acts and reimbursement are discussed. Special attention is focused on the importance of research and preparation for the PTA National Physical Therapy examination.

PTA205 - Interventions in Cardiopulmonary Impairments

An examination of the anatomy, physiology and pathology of the cardiopulmonary system. Specific methods of examination and intervention, including indications and contraindications, for myriad cardiopulmonary conditions. The laboratory portion of the course emphasizes data collection skills and interventions specific to cardiopulmonary rehabilitation performed under direction of a physical therapist.

PTA210 - Interventions in Neurological Impairments

This course is an examination of the etiology, signs and symptoms, and effects of pathologies to the central and peripheral nervous systems. Emphasis is placed on how neurological diagnoses affect the physical function of patients. Specific treatment procedures and techniques within the physical therapist assistant scope of practice are demonstrated and practiced in the laboratory setting.

PTA225 - Interventions in Orthopedic Impairments

This course guides the physical therapist assistant student under the direction of a physical therapist from fundamentals and theory through practice in orthopedic rehabilitation. Emphasis is placed on rehabilitation treatment options for all major joints to reduce pain and swelling, increase motion and strength, enhance balance and proprioception, and restore function. The course will also examine the role of the physical therapist assistant in prosthetic and orthotic management.

PTA230 - Physical Therapy Interventions Across the Life Span

This course will explore anatomy, pathology, and pathophysiology of disease processes with increased prevalence in the pediatric and geriatric populations. Development of the pediatric population and characteristics of normal and pathological changes associated with aging will be discussed. Lab experiences will include mock case studies, functional and motor function training, postural assessment, application of assistive / adaptive devices, interdisciplinary clinical observation hours, and activities to foster volunteerism, advocacy, and leadership.

PTA240 - Physical Therapist Assistant Special Topics

This course will illustrate the role of the physical therapist assistant in patient/client management in specialty populations, as well as the role of the physical therapist assistant in participation in health care environment, practice management, and wellness/prevention. Special conditions include women’s health diseases, bariatrics, wound care, cancer, amputations, prosthetics, and orthotics. Additional topics include reimbursement, research methods, and educational theories.

PTA250 - Clinical Internship II

This clinical internship provides physical therapist assistants with the opportunities to perform their responsibilities under appropriate physical therapist or physical therapist assistant supervision and with positive role modeling. The experience provides exposure to a variety of patients and learning activities.

PTA260 - Physical Therapist Assistant Pharmacology and Imaging

This course will explore the mechanism of action, adverse effects, and physical therapy implications of drugs used to treat common cardiovascular, pulmonary, musculoskeletal, metabolic, and neurological conditions commonly encountered by the physical therapist assistant. In addition, this course will explore the essential information physical therapist assistants need to be able to accurately recognize patients’ medical imaging studies in order to better understand the nature of their pathology or injury. Although an overview of imaging tests will be explored, emphasis will be placed on radiography, CT Scan, and MRI images related to various musculoskeletal conditions.