PTA 170 — Clinical Exp erience I
This course allows students to enter the clinical environment under the supervision of a physical therapist or physical therapist assistant clinical instructor. Opportunities are available for students to apply skills previously simulated during didactic instruction, as well as observe and assist with other physical therapy interventions as deemed appropriate by the clinical instructor. Students will continue to develop skills in monitoring and modifying patient interventions within the PT Plan of Care while considering the patient perspective and environment, and focusing on time efficiency and communication with members of the interprofessional health care team. A comprehensive, computerized exam of all knowledge acquired in the first year of the program must be passed prior to entering the clinic. Students meet in the classroom prior to clinical experience to perform a self-assessment of abilities, develop goals/objectives for Clinical Experience I, and discuss appropriate clinical behaviors, evidence based practice, legal and ethical dilemmas, fiscal management, conflict resolution, and quality assurance. Students return to the classroom at the conclusion of Clinical Experience I to reflect on and share their experiences while comparing and contrasting the assessments, interventions and documentation practices encountered in the various health care settings. A service activity and reflection paper are also completed in order to promote future volunteerism and patient advo
Prerequisites: HRO 100, PSYC 151, COMM 151, PTA 150, PTA 151, PTA 160, PTA 161, PTA 165