Additional emphasis is placed on the development of treatment programs for orthopedic patients including upper and lower extremity dysfunctions, injuries to the spine and lower extremity amputations. Students develop specific home programs, instruct in family training and select appropriate assistive devices and equipment for neurologic, geriatric and orthopedic patients. Students apply physical therapy skills for the comprehensive treatment of the geriatric patient, vestibular and burn patients, and analyze functional assessments and testing for sensory related deficits. Instruction is provided in normal and abnormal human development, pediatric treatment philosophies and principles, pediatric assessment tools, gross motor skill development, behavior management and communication skills, and common pediatric disorders. Laboratory sessions focus on facilitation of developmental sequence, common treatment approaches including handling, positioning, range of motion, strength and mobility.
Students perform pediatric assessment tools on typically developing children.
Grade of 2.0 or better in all PTA courses. Clinical discussion group will focus on oral and written communication skills, writing resumes and interview basics. Supervised practical experience in the administration of duties of a PTA in physical therapy departments affiliated with the college. Clinical discussion group will focus on patient interaction, interpersonal communication, and ethical issues related to patient care. Full time internship of practical performance and appropriate application of physical therapy procedures and techniques under supervision in 2 selected clinic settings or physical therapy departments associated with the college.