Course Descriptions

PTA 110 - Fundamentals of Physical Therapist Assisting

1. Demonstrate proficiency in medical terminology.
2. Apply terminology to physical therapy applications.
3. Explain the principles of therapeutic exercise in physical therapy.
4. Apply basic concepts of mechanics to body mechanics and transfer techniques.
5. Apply transfer and bed mobility techniques to patients requiring assistance.
6. Demonstrate safe wheelchair management skills and techniques for patients and caregivers.
7. Demonstrate gait training skills to patients requiring assistance.
8. Demonstrate the ability to assess vital signs.
9. Implement clean and sterile procedures performed in a physical therapy setting.
10. Examine physical therapy roles, legal and ethical concepts.
11. Complete an observation experience in a physical therapy facility.
12. Examine psychosocial aspects of rehabilitation, illness and disability.
13. Demonstrate professional behaviors in the classroom, clinical and course-related settings.

PTA 112 - Kinesiology 1

1. Classify the function and functional adaptations of bones.
2. Characterize terminology relating to joint motion.
3. Identify the bones and bony landmarks of the human skeleton.
4. Relate the anatomy and function of the joints of the human body.
5. Apply knowledge of joint anatomy and function to Physical Therapy related situations.
6. Demonstrate professional behaviors in the classroom, clinical, and course-related settings.

PTA 114 - Physical Therapy Modalities

1. Describe the physical properties involved in the production and absorption of energy as they relate to the following biophysical agents: biofeedback, electrotherapeutic agents, compression therapies, cryotherapy, hydrotherapy, superficial and deep thermal agents, and traction and light therapies.
2. Describe the physiological response of the human body to biophysical agents used in physical therapy.
3. Describe the therapeutic uses and effects of biophysical agents used in physical therapy.
4. Describe the contraindications and precautions for use of biophysical agents used in physical therapy.
5. Examine physical therapy research.
6. Demonstrate treatment interventions in a physical therapy setting including hot packs, hydrotherapy, paraffin, cryotherapy, compression techniques, iontophoresis, biofeedback, electrical stimulation, ultrasound, and volumetric extremity measurements.
7. Use appropriate communication with the patient in instruction for a biophysical agent in various physical therapy settings.
8. Describe the role of documentation in-patient care.
9. Write effective documentation related to hypothetical patient scenarios.
10. Demonstrate beginning skills in the application of topical agents and dressing understanding the role of the PTA in wound care.
11. Demonstrate the use of the tilt table in the physical therapy setting.
12. Apply cervical and lumbar cervical clinical traction procedures.
13. Demonstrate professional behaviors in the classroom, clinical and course-related settings.

PTA 116 - Kinesiology 2

1. Apply mechanical concepts to solve simple problems involving levers, wheels and axles, and force systems including physical therapy related scenarios.
2. Create stretching programs for various physical therapy related situations.
3. Examine the anatomy of the muscles of the upper extremity, the lower extremity and the trunk.
4. Apply nervous system anatomy to human movement.
5. Identify the anatomy of circulation to the upper and lower extremities.
6. Apply knowledge of the functional anatomy of the extremities and trunk in physical therapy related situations.
7. Apply the terminology and principles of kinesiology to explain human movement.
8. Apply knowledge of kinesiology principles of human movement in physical therapy situations.
9. Explain normal human gait utilizing terminology and concepts related to normal human locomotion.
10. Apply knowledge of normal gait to situations involving pathological gaits.
11. Explain the processes of respiration and cough.
12. Apply knowledge of respiratory care to physical therapy related situations.
13. Demonstrate professional behaviors in the classroom, clinical and course-related settings.

PTA 117 - Pathology 1

1. Apply basic terminology related to selected diseases and conditions.
2. Describe the etiology of the following conditions: osteoporosis, diseases related to soft tissue injuries, fractures, diseases related to the respiratory system, diseases related to connective tissue disorders, diseases related to the auto-immune system.
3. Describe the physiological process and/or anatomical changes that occur during the phases of inflammation and tissue repair.
4. Describe the pathophysiological processes and/or anatomical changes that occur in pathologies discussed in this course.
5. Describe the clinical signs and symptoms related to diseases of the musculoskeletal, integumentary, and circulatory systems.
6. Describe the medical, surgical, and/or physical treatment related to diseases of the musculoskeletal, integumentary, and circulatory systems.
7. Describe and apply the concepts of wellness.
8. Demonstrate professional behaviors in the classroom, clinical and course-related settings.

PTA 118 - Pathology 2

1. Describe the etiology of the following disease categories covered within this course: Endocrine diseases, bariatric conditions, diseases related to the cardiac, respiratory, immune, integumentary systems, and neoplasms.
2. Describe the pathophysiological processes and/or anatomical changes that occur in pathologies covered in this course.
3. Describe the clinical signs and symptoms related to selected disease processes.
4. Describe the medical, surgical, pharmacological, and/or physical treatment of selected disease processes.
5. Demonstrate professional behaviors in the classroom, clinical and course-related settings.

PTA 119 - Orthopedics

1. Demonstrate the techniques used in therapeutic exercise programs in physical therapy.
2. Implement programs of therapeutic exercise.
3. Examine the theory and rationale related to therapeutic exercise techniques performed in the laboratory and/or discussed in the classroom.
4. Use basic terminology related to selected orthopedic diseases and conditions.
5. Examine the following approaches to the study of joint movement: Traditional Approach, Osteokinematic Approach, and Arthrokinematic Approach.
6. Distinguish the etiologies of selected orthopedic conditions.
7. Examine the anatomical and physiological changes that occur in selected conditions of the upper extremities, lower extremities and spine.
8. Describe the surgical and/or physical measures utilized in correcting conditions of the upper extremities, lower extremities and spine.
9. Demonstrate professional behaviors in the classroom, clinical and course-related settings.

PTA 120 - Neurological Concepts

1. Predict basic neuroembryology with respect to the development of the nervous system.
2. Apply neurophysiological knowledge of neurons to explain motor output.
3. Classify the neurological structures found in the spinal cord, the cranial nerves and the coverings of the brain and spinal cord.
4. Relate the role of the autonomic nervous system to motor output.
5. Relate the necessity of the normal flow of blood to the brain and the normal circulation of the cerebral spinal fluid to the proper functioning of the nervous system.
6. Demonstrate how white and gray matter found in the nervous system may have influence over the nervous system.
7. Correlate the anatomy and function of the spinal cord tracts to their influence over motor output.
8. Demonstrate the techniques used in physical therapy intervention for data collection and therapeutic exercise programs for coordination.
9. Explain the physiologic basis of nerve conduction and relate it to motor output.
10. Interpret motor learning and motor control theories to applications of data collection and treatment strategies as seen in the physical therapy setting.
11. Classify the role and function of the sensory receptors with respect to motor output.
12. Demonstrate professional behaviors in the classroom, clinical and course-related settings.

PTA 121 - Functional Techniques

1. Identify components of functional training.
2. Implement functional interventions for improving bed mobility for a simulated patient with complex health conditions and functional limitations.
3. Demonstrate a functional intervention progression for pre-ambulatory simulated patients with complex health conditions and functional limitations.
4. Apply principles of ambulation progression or regression to a simulated patient with complex health conditions and functional limitations on level or uneven surfaces.
5. Modify transfer techniques to functional surfaces for simulated patients with complex health conditions and functional limitations.
6. Recommend appropriate wheelchair selection for a patient with functional limitations.
7. Identify the rationale for a work hardening program.
8. Summarize architectural barriers to users of wheelchairs or other assistive devices related to domestic, education, work, community, social, and civic life.
9. Design physical therapy activities using equipment that is easily accessed in a home setting to achieve PT goals.
10. Differentiate between various physical therapy clinical practice settings.
11. Identify pertinent HIPAA and OSHA guidelines for a PTA.
12. Demonstrate professional behaviors in the classroom, clinical, and course-related settings.

PTA 122 - Pediatrics

1. Describe the etiology of the following conditions: Hip Dysplasia; Myelomeningocele; Osteogenesis Imperfecta; Down’s Syndrome; Prader-Willi Syndrome; Arthrogryposis; Fragile X Syndrome; Muscular Dystrophy; Cerebral Palsy, Spinal Muscular Atrophy.
2. Use basic terminology related to selected pediatric diseases and conditions.
3. Describe the pathophysiological processes and/or anatomical changes that occur in selected pathologies.
4. Describe the clinical signs and symptoms related to selected pathologies.
5. Describe the medical, surgical, and/or physical treatment of selected pathologies.
6. Describe the techniques used in a Sensory Integration program for a neurologically involved patient in Physical Therapy.
7. Explain the components of normal sequential gross and fine motor development as it relates to physical therapy intervention.
8. Summarize the role of legislation with respect to the delivery of school-based physical therapy services.
9. Analyze the relationship between the field of neonatology and physical therapy intervention.
10. Demonstrate professional behaviors in the classroom, clinical and course-related settings.

PTA 218 - Focused Neurology

1. Describe rehabilitation approaches for neurologically involved patients in Physical Therapy settings.
2. Design programs of therapeutic exercise for neurologically involved patients.
3. Discuss the evolution of the therapeutic exercise approaches used with neurologically involved patients.
4. Identify the theory and rationale related to each of the selected therapeutic exercise techniques and ADL programs performed in the laboratory and/ or discussed in the classroom.
5. Describe the techniques used in functional activities of daily living training programs for the neurologically involved patient.
6. Relate specific neurological patient disabilities to appropriate programs of therapeutic exercise and functional activity training.
7. Examine physical therapy treatment related to traumatic brain injury.
8. Use basic terminology related to selected diseases and conditions that relate to the central and peripheral nervous systems.
9. Summarize the effects of pathology affecting the central and peripheral nervous systems.
10. Describe the pathophysiological process and/ or anatomical changes that occur in central and peripheral nervous systems pathologies.
11. Describe the clinical signs and symptoms related to central and peripheral nervous systems pathologies.
12. Describe the medical, surgical, and/ or physical treatment of central and peripheral nervous systems pathologies.
13. Describe the anatomical physiological changes that occur following spinal cord injury.
14. Describe acute and long term care for the spinal cord injured patient.
15. Demonstrate the proper techniques necessary to fully rehabilitate an SCI patient.
16. Describe specialty exercises to include: neuromuscular reeducation, relaxation exercises, circulation exercises.
17. Apply the ICF model to identify impairments, activity and participation limitations of a patient with a neurological diagnosis.
18. Demonstrate professional behaviors in the classroom, clinical, and course-related settings.

PTA 219 - Advanced Intervention Techniques

1. Identify the theory and rationale related to each of the selected therapeutic exercise techniques performed in the laboratory and/ or discussed in the classroom.
2. Apply knowledge of anatomy and arthrokinematic principles to Physical Therapy related situations using soft-tissue mobilization and peripheral joint mobilization techniques.
3. Describe the surgical procedures, post-operative care, and possible complications involved with upper and lower extremity amputations.
4. Describe prosthetic prescription, components, and their function.
5. Examine the pre-prosthetic Physical Therapy program for a lower limb amputee.
6. Examine the techniques utilized in the prosthetic training program.
7. Describe the general principles of orthotics.
8. Describe orthotic prescription, components, and their function.
9. Describe the techniques used in selected Physical Therapy treatment approaches: Strain/ Counterstrain Myofascial Release, IASTM, Muscle Energy, Kinesiotape, MDT, Mulligan Concept, Pilates, Aquatic Therapy.
10. Explore up to date Physical Therapy research, equipment and techniques.
11. Describe the basic treatment concepts associated with the TMJ (temporomandibular joint) in the field of Physical Therapy.
12. Describe the basic treatment concepts associated with the obstetric patient.
13. Demonstrate professional behaviors in the classroom, clinical, and course-related settings.

PTA 220 - Concepts in Physical Therapist Assisting

1. Summarize methods of and the need for effective marketing of the Physical Therapy service.
2. Document patient care in a manner that communicates clearly, provides legal protection, and enhances the chances of reimbursement.
3. Outline the importance of accuracy and confidentiality in records and record-keeping in Physical Therapy.
4. Examine various types of specialized equipment used in hospital settings.
5. Summarize common clinical laboratory results and physical therapy treatment concerns for patients with abnormal clinical laboratory readings.
6. Demonstrate basic isolation and first aid procedures (to include Blood Borne pathogens).
7. Describe the role of administration and the administrator in Physical Therapy.
8. Discuss issues and terminology surrounding reimbursement for health care and physical therapy services.
9. Identify the elements of effective interpersonal interactions within Physical Therapy.
10. Evaluate the total care of patients treated in the physical therapy clinical setting.
11. Identify individual continuing education needs, take appropriate steps to meet those needs and share the knowledge gained.
12. Demonstrate professional behaviors in the classroom, clinical, and course-related settings.

PTA 223 - Seminar in Physical Therapist Assisting

1. Describe information about the American Physical Therapy Association.
2. Identify the implications of (1) the Code(s) of Ethics and associated guides for the conduct, (2) the Michigan Physical Therapy Practice Act, and (3) APTA policies for the practice of the physical therapist assistant.
3. Interpret the role of the Physical Therapist Assistant to others.
4. Apply for a position as a Physical Therapist Assistant using the acceptable form.
5. Discuss concepts related to maintaining and terminating a job.
6. Recognize the importance of communication for the effective functioning of physical therapy service.
7. Appreciate the issues and problems pertaining to the aged and aging in our society.
8. Recognize the implications of cultural diversity in the U.S. for health care in general and for the role of health care professionals in the delivery of quality health care to all individuals served by the health care systems.
9. Discuss current trends and issues of interest to physical therapy as a profession and to the PT Assistant in particular.
10. Study and discuss the TOTAL CARE of patients assigned to their care in the physical therapy clinical setting.
11. Identify their own continuing education needs and take appropriate steps to meet those needs and share what was learned.
12. Pass a written cumulative final examination covering the content of academic and clinical physical therapist assistant coursework in the curriculum.
13. In conjunction with the “Student Reflection Portfolio” assignment outlined for students at the beginning of their participation in the Physical Therapist Assistant Program, the student will achieve each of the following by participating in and reflecting upon clinical, classroom, and/or outside activities which are relevant and appropriate to each objective.
14. Demonstrate professional behaviors in the classroom, clinical, and course-related settings.

PTA 230 - Clinical Experience

1.5 CR
Weekly sessions will be spent in area health settings where the student will have an opportunity to apply in the clinical setting those skills developed in earlier course work. Treatment and patient care will be carried out under the supervision of qualified physical therapists and/or physical therapist assistants. Emphasis will also be placed on observing and reporting patients’ responses to treatment. An ongoing journal of student clinical experiences is required.

Additional Information: Formal admission to the Physical Therapist Assistant Program required.

Recommended concurrent: PTA 220 .

1. Develop safety awareness in the implementation of physical therapy interventions in the clinical setting.
2. Demonstrate appropriate and professional clinical behavior.
3. Produce effective interpersonal relations and communication.
4. Demonstrate clinical problem solving appropriate to the level of experience (Developing).
5. Demonstrate proficiency in data collection and usage.
6. Carry out procedural interventions in the clinical setting within the plan of care of the supervising physical therapist and with supervision and input from the designated clinical instructor in the areas of therapeutic techniques.
7. Carry out procedural interventions in the clinical setting within the plan of care of the supervising physical therapist and with supervision and input from the designated clinical instructor in the areas of physical agents, mechanical modalities, electrotherapeutic modalities, and the application of devices such as assistive devices, orthotics, and prosthetics.
8. Demonstrate proficiency in documentation and accurate billing.
9. Participate in the administration and management of the physical therapy environment.    

PTA 232 - Coordinated Clinical Experience 1

1. Develop safety awareness in the implementation of physical therapy interventions in the clinical setting.
2. Demonstrate appropriate and professional clinical behavior.
3. Produce effective interpersonal relations and communication.
4. Demonstrate clinical problem solving appropriate to the level of experience (Developing).
5. Demonstrate proficiency in data collection and usage.
6. Carry out procedural interventions in the clinical setting within the plan of care of the supervising physical therapist and with supervision and input from the designated clinical instructor in the areas of therapeutic techniques.
7. Carry out procedural interventions in the clinical setting within the plan of care of the supervising physical therapist and with supervision and input from the designated clinical instructor in the areas of physical agents, mechanical modalities, electrotherapeutic modalities, and the application of devices such as assistive devices, orthotics, and prosthetics.
8. Demonstrate proficiency in documentation and accurate billing.
9. Participate in the administration and management of the physical therapy environment.                

PTA 234 - Coordinated Clinical Experience 2

1. Develop safety awareness in the implementation of physical therapy interventions in the clinical setting.
2. Demonstrate appropriate and professional clinical behavior.
3. Produce effective interpersonal relations and communication.
4. Demonstrate clinical problem solving appropriate to the level of experience (Developing).
5. Demonstrate proficiency in data collection and usage.
6. Carry out procedural interventions in the clinical setting within the plan of care of the supervising physical therapist and with supervision and input from the designated clinical instructor in the areas of therapeutic techniques.
7. Carry out procedural interventions in the clinical setting within the plan of care of the supervising physical therapist and with supervision and input from the designated clinical instructor in the areas of physical agents, mechanical modalities, electrotherapeutic modalities, and the application of devices such as assistive devices, orthotics, and prosthetics.
8. Demonstrate proficiency in documentation and accurate billing.
9. Participate in the administration and management of the physical therapy environment.                

PTA 236 - Clinical Exploration

1. Develop safety awareness in the implementation of physical therapy interventions in the clinical setting.
2. Demonstrate appropriate and professional clinical behavior.
3. Produce effective interpersonal relations and communication.
4. Demonstrate clinical problem solving appropriate to the level of experience (Developing).
5. Demonstrate proficiency in data collection and usage.
6. Carry out procedural interventions in the clinical setting within the plan of care of the supervising physical therapist and with supervision and input from the designated clinical instructor in the areas of therapeutic techniques.
7. Carry out procedural interventions in the clinical setting within the plan of care of the supervising physical therapist and with supervision and input from the designated clinical instructor in the areas of physical agents, mechanical modalities, electrotherapeutic modalities, and the application of devices such as assistive devices, orthotics, and prosthetics.
8. Demonstrate proficiency in documentation and accurate billing.
9. Participate in the administration and management of the physical therapy environment.