PTA 1013 - Fundamentals of Physical Therapy Practice
3 Credit Hours
Course Description:
Description: This foundational course provides an introduction to and prepares students for practice as Physical Therapist Assistants within ethical and legal frameworks. Students will examine the evolution of physical therapy, define professional roles within the healthcare team, and understand PT-PTA collaboration under Oklahoma licensure requirements and supervision standards. The course covers key legislation affecting physical therapy practice. Core competencies include mastering medical documentation, communication, and medical terminology while demonstrating essential clinical skills: vital signs assessment, proper body mechanics, wheelchair and equipment management, patient transfers, gait training, utilization of assistive devices, and infection control protocols. Students will develop therapeutic communication skills, practice “people-first” language, and explore how interpersonal behaviors impact patient care outcomes. Professional behaviors are fostered throughout the course while emphasizing practice within the APTA Code of Ethics for the Physical Therapy Profession and Core Values and adherence to federal, state, and jurisdictional legal requirements, preparing students to deliver safe and effective patient care.
Prerequisites:
Accepted to PTA Program
BIO 1314 Human Anatomy and Physiology I *with a grade of C or better
Corequisites:
BIO 1414 Human Anatomy and Physiology II
PTA 1023 Musculoskeletal System and Kinesiology
PTA 1213 Therapeutic Interventions for Pain Management
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