Official Course Description: MCCCD Approval: 07/22/08
PTA099 19966-20086	LEC	1 Credit(s)	1 Period(s)
Career Exploration in Physical Therapy
Overview of career paths in physical therapy key concepts in rehabilitation medicine. Twenty-five (25) hours of volunteer experience at local physical therapy practice settings required. Prerequisites: None.

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MCCCD Official Course Competencies:
PTA099   19966-20086	Career Exploration in Physical Therapy

1.	Define physical therapy and explain the history of it. (I)
2.	Describe the educational background and job responsibilities of the physical therapy aide, physical therapist assistant, and physical therapist. (II)
3.	List common diagnoses which benefit from physical therapy intervention. (III)
4.	Describe specific treatments employed in physical therapy. (IV)
5.	Explain key elements of professional behavior required in physical therapy. (V)
6.	Describe specific psychosocial concepts that are considered when treating individuals with physical challenges. (VI)
7.	Describe the common practice settings where physical therapy services are provided. (VII)
8.	Describe the role of physical therapy in relationship to other disciplines involved with rehabilitation medicine. (VIII)
9.	Describe the role of physical therapy in the care of individuals with physical challenges following direct observation of physical therapy professionals working in specific clinical settings. (IX)

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MCCCD Official Course Outline:
PTA099   19966-20086	Career Exploration in Physical Therapy

I. Introduction A. History of physical therapy B. Definition of physical therapy II. Career paths in physical therapy A. Aide, assistant, therapist B. Education C. Job responsibilities III. Diagnostic groups treated by physical therapy A. Developmental disabilities B. Orthopedics C. Neurological deficits D. Prevention of injury IV. Physical therapy treatments A. Therapeutic exercise B. Modalities C. Functional mobility skills D. Balance and coordination E. Evaluation and discharge planning V. Elements of professional behavior A. Dress B. Timeliness C. Verbal and nonverbal communication D. Patient confidentiality VI. Psychosocial rehabilitation A. Transient vs. permanent disability B. Economic effects of disability C. Family dynamics D. Self image and coping mechanisms E. Successful recovery VII. Practice environments A. Hospitals B. Private practice C. Home health D. Pediatrics and schools E. Extended care facilities F. Work hardening and industrial medicine VIII. Roles in the interdisciplinary team A. Occupational therapist B. Speech and language pathologist C. Nurse D. Dietitian E. Psychologist F. Recreational therapist G. Physician IX. Observational experience A. Patient/therapist interaction B. Physical therapy goals and treatments C. Patient response to treatment

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