* Gefällt Dir diese Homepage oder meinst Du es besser zu können? Erstelle deine eigene kostenlose Homepage jetzt! *

 
 
A physical therapist assistant will work in a number of environments, such as fitness centers, nursing homes, clinics and hospitals, under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist. PTA will teach patients how to perform exercises that have been prescribed by a PT, how to operate medical devices and they will also monitor a patient’s progress. PTA schools will offer both certificate and associate’s degree programs.

Program Overview

All states will require the PTA to complete an accredited training program. Commonly, most individuals in this field will enroll in the two year associate’s degree program. The courses in this type of program will include such topics as rehabilitation procedures, human development, healthcare laws, medical terminology, anatomy and physiology. The program curriculum will typically incorporate three clinical rotations during the final year of study. The clinical experiences can involve first aid and CPR training, which will lead to certification.

A PTA can take continuing education classes in order to maintain valid licensure and remain current in their training. Every state will have specific requirements for continuing education and certification.


Schools

The basic pharmacology class featured in most PTA programs takes a look at the medications that are specifically used for PT patients. This class will focus on how these drugs work in conjunction with PT practices. These medications are studied with regards to any conditions they are used to treat and the effects these drugs have on patients.

The health promotion rehab class introduces students to health concepts and community education.  Health and wellness promotion customs are discussed. This class also focuses on fitness, nutrition and stress management.

The laws in the healthcare field class are an introductory course that includes such topics as contract laws, preparation of deposition, medical malpractice and employment law. Students will also learn about common issues in managed care.

The medical screening class teaches students how to recognize cases that require a referral to a specialist. Students will learn how to differentiate between emergency cases and pain conditions, using realistic scenarios. A student can explore medications and analyze pharmacological therapies. Students will also learn how to use and recognize a variety of diagnostic imaging equipment.

In order to become registered or certified as a PTA, a student will need to complete an accredited training program. A PTA is required to complete several hours of continuing education in order to maintain valid licensure for this field. The amount of continuing education hours that are needed each year will vary from state to state. Every state will require the PTA to pass a certification exam, with the exceptions of Hawaii and Colorado.

Some schools will also allow students to choose an area of specialization in such areas as aquatic physical therapy, pediatrics or geriatrics. Certificate programs for specialization will consist of over 1,500 hours and will require students to complete sixty hours of clinical experience in the area of their specialty.