2023-24 Academic Courses
Activities: General (ACT)
Students will work with the instructor to develop a personalized workout comprised of a combination of cardiovascular work and weight training. This course may be repeated for a total of two credits. Students receiving financial aid or veterans' benefits should check with the Financial Aid Office before repeating this course. (All Semesters)
Course Outcomes
- Develop and continue a workout/fitness program to achieve or maintain desired weight loss and muscle growth.
- Operate and use a variety of aerobic and weight training equipment.
This course introduces the student to movement on rock and the techniques and safety systems to set up short climbs with top-rope climbing systems. This course may be repeated for a total of two credits. Students receiving financial aid or veterans' benefits should check with the Financial Aid Office before repeating this course. (Intermittently)
Course Outcomes
- Implement fundamental safety techniques for climbing.
- Handle and care for the rope, including tying the necessary knots for rock climbing safely.
- Utilize belaying techniques, primarily for top-roping, using belay devices and locking carabineers.
- Communicate between climbing partners using the universal standard communication commands for climbing partnerships.
- Rappel safely.
This cardio and strength class gives almost every muscle in the body a workout. Sessions involve a warm-up and cool-down, bodyweight exercises, and stretching. Emphasis is on functional fitness, using whole-body, multijoint exercises that simulate movements people do in life. (Intermittently)
Course Outcomes
- Acquire the use of continuous movement of large muscle groups to strengthen the cardiovascular system;
- Acquire an understanding of basic fitness skills through exposure to a variety of aerobic and resistance training exercises; and
- Improve personal fitness through regular participation in activity both in and out of class.
The purpose of this course is to introduce students to Hatha Yoga physical exercise. The Yoga postures exercise every part of the body, stretching and toning the muscles and joints, the spine and the entire skeletal system. Postures also work on the internal organs, glands and nerves. By releasing physical and mental tension, they also liberate vast resources of energy as well as maintaining the balance between the mind and the body. This course may be repeated for a total of two credits. Students receiving financial aid or veterans' benefits should check with the Financial Aid Office before repeating this course. (Fall and Spring Semesters)
Course Outcomes
- Name the basic yoga postures.
- Properly execute basic yoga poses, making appropriate modifications as needed.
- Implement breathing techniques utilized in Classical Yoga.
This is an introductory course in the traditional Japanese martial art of Aikido. By using basic techniques of centering, grounding, and balance (in mind and body), one learns that the non-violent approach to conflict is the safest and most effective approach. The principles of Aikido are transferable to personal and professional effectiveness for daily life. In addition, the physical training in Aikido naturally leads to improved general health, flexibility, core strength, and awareness. This course may be repeated for a total of two credits. Students receiving financial aid or veterans' benefits should check with the Financial Aid Office before repeating this course. (Fall and Spring Semesters)
Course Outcomes
- Move in balance and connect with an adversary in such a way as to avoid injury to both parties.
- Demonstrate falling safely to avoid injury.
- Demonstrate the basic Aikido techniques used to assess the first step of promotion on rank.
- Communicate an improved sense of physical well-being and a balanced disposition in approaching daily life.
Students are guided through a series of low-impact, high-intensity isometric movements designed to improve flexibility while strengthening and toning the body. (Intermittently)
Course Outcomes
- Learn the fundamental techniques of the Barre method.
- Understand basic positions and terminology as they relate to Barre workouts.
- Define and understand the different types of muscle contractions and how they relate to a Barre workout.
- Complete a Barre workout safely using proper form and technique.
This course uses the Learn to Skate USA Adult Basic Skills curriculum to build confidence with all fundamental ice skating skills. Students may choose to progress to more specialized areas of ice skating such as free skating, ice dancing, or adult hockey leagues. This course may be repeated for a total of two credits. Students receiving financial aid or veterans' benefits should check with the Financial Aid Office before repeating this course. (Fall and Spring Semesters)
Course Outcomes
- Fall and recover on the ice.
- Skate forward and backward.
- Complete a hockey stop in both directions.
This course explores the principles, philosophy, history, and practices of yoga. Students will learn how to use yoga as a transformative tool by applying yoga principles to life experiences. Topics include the origins of different practices, principles of alignment and energetic actions, and asana poses used to facilitate the process of self-reflection. This course may be repeated for a total of two credits. Students receiving financial aid or veterans' benefits should check with the Financial Aid Office before repeating this course. (Intermittently)
Course Outcomes
- Explain the benefits of several challenging yoga poses.
- Show awareness of alignment and energetic actions.
- Recall the names of poses in English & Sanskrit.
- Complete asana practice with steadiness and ease.
- Consistently apply yoga practice to life practice.
This course is an extension of ACT 169 with special emphasis on developing and enhancing the tennis skills and strategies of intermediate and advanced players. Instruction will include a review of rules and etiquette, as well as improving strokes, shots, serves, returns, and game strategies (singles and doubles). This course may be repeated for a total of two credits. Students receiving financial aid or veterans' benefits should check with the Financial Aid Office before repeating this course. (All Semesters)
Course Outcomes
- Articulate tennis rules and etiquette for singles and doubles play.
- Demonstrate an improved ability to perform various strokes, shots, serves, and returns.
This course introduces the safe and proper use of crosscut saws, axes and chain saws as they are used in intercollegiate Logger Sports competition. Emphasis is placed on equipment maintenance, safety of use and proper techniques for competition. The last third of the term, students will compete in Logger Sports contests throughout the Northwest. This course may be repeated for a total of two credits. Students receiving financial aid or veterans' benefits should check with the Financial Aid Office before repeating this course. (Fall and Spring Semesters)
Course Outcomes
- Safely use Logger Sports equipment.
- Appreciate the traditions and sportsmanship that is unique to Logger Sports.
- Compete at the intercollegiate level in Logger Sports.
Allied Health: Medical Assisting (AHMA)
In this course, students develop a basic knowledge of medical assistant skills required for completing theMedical Assistant, CAS program. Students will learn how to perform vital signs, use electronic medical records, prepare exam rooms andpatients, and assist during an exam. Medical office skills that apply to pediatrics, obstetrics, and gynecology are also covered. This course emphasizes the high standard of ethical principles, confidentiality, andprofessionalism required to progress to AHMA 203. (Fall Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Obtain and record patient information including history, medications, and vital signs using electronic medical records software.
- Demonstrate a professional demeanor and understanding of the essentials of confidentiality and medical ethics.
- Facilitate patients in the medical office and exam room.
- Understand the principles of patient education.
- Apply surgical asepsis techniques, including during patient care and care of the medical office.
- Instruct patients in the use of wheel chair, cane and crutches.
- Exhibit good communication skills and knowledge of medical terms as they apply to genecology, obstetrics, and other body systems.
This course is a continuation of AHMA 201 with an emphasis on performing medical assistant clinical skills. (Fall Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Establish a therapeutic relationship in a variety of patient scenarios.
- Apply techniques for medical asepsis and infection control.
- Acquire patient information and vital signs.
- Employ methods to safeguard patient care and confidentiality.
This courseadvances the knowledge and skills required for completing the Medical Assistant CAS program. The student is trained in urinalysis, administering injections, performing phlebotomy, handling specimens, and principles of radiology. Throughout the course an emphasis is placed on courteous treatment of the patient, professionalism in the medical office, attention to detail, and accurate documentation in the electronic health record. (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Perform universal precautions and infection control.
- Prepare and administer medications.
- Perform urinalysis and specialty lab tests.
- Perform ear and eye instillation and irrigation.
- Understand hospital lab setting and safety regulations of the lab.
- Handle and process specimens for the lab.
- Perform venipuncture and capillary punctures.
- Become familiar with radiology techniques and patient preparation
- Perform EKGs.
- Set up sterile trays and assist with surgical procedures.
- Apply Electronic Health Records concepts.
This course is a continuation of AHMA 203 with an emphasis on performing medical assistant clinical skills. (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Demonstrate sterile technique.
- Collect and process specimens.
- Describe the concepts of diagnostic testing.
- Apply safe patient care practices.
This online course presents clinically-related case studiesto encourage development of critical thinking skills. The cases will be based on patient information related to material covered in AHMA 201. Online resources will be utilized to identify appropriate patient preparation for procedures. (Fall Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Read and analyze case studies by organizing and connecting major ideas to identify patient problems.
- Apply relevant medical terms when determining patient needs and disease and diagnostic treatment options.
- Prepare appropriate patient education materials demonstrating comprehension and retention of reading assignments.
- Synthesize and define appropriate response to abnormal or unusual patient data by contributing to online discussion.
- Demonstrate ability to change views based on new, valid information when defining response to potential infectious processes in the physician office setting.
This online course reinforces student preparation for on-site clinical experiences through case studies research and critical thinking application. Case studies will be based on patient information related to material covered in AHMA 203. (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Recognize professional communication and behavior of the medical assistant.
- Develop awareness of workplace dynamics and confidentiality.
- Define regulatory controls governing the physician office.
- Synthesize the principles of patient preparation adapted to individual needs for common diagnosis.
- Apply electronic technology to the physician office setting.
The profession of phlebotomy is taught through lecture, student laboratory, and clinical experiences. The course will focus on skill development in the performance of a variety of blood collection methods using proper techniques and standard precautions. Topics include vacuum collection devices, syringes, capillary skin puncture, butterfly needles and blood culture, and specimen collection on adults. Collection of specimens from children and infants is discussed. Emphasis will be placed on infection prevention, patient identification, specimen labeling, quality assurance, specimen handling, processing, accessioning, professionalism, ethics, and medical terminology. Students will learn the theory and principles of CLIA-waived laboratory tests. Students will complete a minimum of 40 hours classroom/lab training. Clinical hours will be completed via AHMA 221. (Fall and Spring Semesters)
Course Outcomes
- Follow standard operating procedures to collect specimens via venipuncture and capillary (dermal) puncture.
- Demonstrate knowledge of collection equipment, various types of additives used, special precautions necessary, and substances that can interfere in clinical analysis of blood constituents.
- Demonstrate understanding of requisitioning, specimen transport, and specimen processing.
- Describe the anatomy and physiology of body systems and general pathologic conditions associated with the body systems, utilizing the appropriate medical terminology.
- Demonstrate knowledge of infection control and safety.
- Identify age-specific or psycho-social considerations involved in the performance of phlebotomy procedures on various groups of patients.
- Discuss the importance of specimen collection and specimen integrity in the delivery of patient care.
- Describe the importance of quality assurance and quality control in phlebotomy.
- Discuss the health care delivery system.
This course includes 100 hours of clinical practice in specimen collection on adults, children, and infants. Emphasis is placed on infection control and prevention, proper patient identification, labeling of specimens, quality assurance, specimen handling, processing, and accessioning. The course is designed to allow students to develop the skills, knowledge, and attitude required to function in a professional manner in the health care setting. Students must perform a minimum of 100 successful venipunctures and eight successful skin punctures. Students who successfully complete AHMA 220and AHMA 221 will be eligible to sit for the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Phlebotomy Technician national examination. (Fall and Spring Semesters)
Course Outcomes
- Perform phlebotomy procedures and tasks, including vein and capillary punctures and non-blood specimen processing, in an accurate, timely and professional manner.
- Comply with all regulations and guidelines of governing agencies.
- Communicate effectively in the health care setting.
- Use phlebotomy equipment safely and effectively.
- Understand quality assurance.
- Demonstrate professionalism, including initiative, appropriate interpersonal skills, teamwork, respect, and caring.
An advanced course intended to train medical assisting students in the administrative procedures currently used in medical offices including, but not limited to, coding, processing of insurance claims, and EMR. Students will also be taught introductory skills of becoming a medical scribe while using current technology. (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Define and utilize coding as it applies to medical assisting.
- Define and utilize insurance billing procedures as they apply to medical assisting.
- Apply third-party reimbursement concepts as they apply to medical assisting.
- Utilize current technology as required in a medical office.
- Apply "meaningful use" in medical assisting practices as it relates to EHR.
This course builds a comprehensive understanding and comfort level with the electronic health record that appliesdirectly in the clinical workplace. (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Define electronic health records.
- Describe federal government strategies to promote electronic health record adoption.
- Contrast inpatient and outpatient charts.
- Compare different formats of EHR Data.
- Explain different methods of capturing and recording EHR data.
- Learn medical record software.
- Enter data at the point of care.
- Discuss importance of electronic orders and results.
- Compare paper and electronic workflow of orders and results.
- Use diagnosis to find protocols.
- Understand and use patient management.
- Create graphs of lab results.
- Create problem-based flow sheet.
- Discuss the effect of the impact of internet technology on health care.
- Discuss patient access to electronic health records.
This course prepares medical assistant students and/or currently practicing medical assistants for a national exam: the American Association of Medical Assistant (AAMA) Certification. (Summer Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Pass a nationally administered certification exam to obtain the certification of Certified Medical Assistant (CMA), American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA), or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA).
This capstone course of the Medical Assistant program provides on-site clinical experience in a physician's office or clinic setting. It provides opportunities to apply learned skills in various clinical and administrative procedures under the supervision of a medical doctor and office staff. This course requires 180 documented, unpaid clinical hours at assigned clinics in addition to other coursework. This course can be repeated once for a maximum of 10 credits. Students receiving financial aid or veterans benefits should check with the Financial Aid Office before repeating this course. (Summer Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Perform all tasks required of an entry-level medical assistant in a clinical setting.
- Conduct oneself in a professional manner as required for an entry-level medical assistant.
- Take direction from supervisors and physicians and respond appropriately.
- Understand and maintain appropriate confidentiality at all times in the clinical setting.
- Collaborate effectively with others in complicated, dynamic, and/or ambiguous situations.
Allied Health: Medical Laboratory Technology (AHMT)
This course is intended for students interested in the profession of Medical Laboratory Technology. Students are provided an overview of accreditation and certification, types of laboratory personnel, medical, ethical and legal issues, laboratory safety, laboratory math, use and care of the microscope, a description of the testing performed in the major laboratory departments and quality control and quality assurance. (Fall and Spring Semesters)
Course Outcomes
- List important events in the history of the clinical laboratory and describe the type of professionalism desired in clinical laboratory personnel.
- Describe behavior consistent with the ethical practice of clinical laboratory medicine.
- Apply principles of confidentiality for all patients and test results.
- State the special knowledge and skills of other members of the health care team needed for quality patient care.
- Explain the impact of federal and state regulatory agencies on the clinical laboratory.
- Identify pathogens including the HIV virus that can be transmitted by blood or body fluids.
- List and describe safety hazards in the laboratory and discuss the proper techniques to avoid accidents.
- Use basic metric systems for laboratory procedures and use formulas to calculate strengths of dilutions and solutions.
- Discuss processing clinical specimens according to established procedures.
- List and explain the basic laboratory procedures in clinical chemistry, hematology, coagulation, urinalysis, immunology/serology.
- Evaluate quality control values.
This course presents the origin of the various types of blood cells with emphasis on the red and white cells.Students learn about human hematological disorders and classify these based on clinical laboratory findings.This course also includes blood coagulation with emphases on the theory, procedures, and practical applications and provides an overview of the coagulation process, disorders, and laboratory evaluations associated with the disorders.Laboratory experiences emphasize the morphology and identification of common human blood cells and various procedures used in the hematology and hemostasis departments including both manual and semi-automated methods of assessment as well as phlebotomy. (Fall Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Describe the various quality assurance procedures and their uses that aid in the successful running of a hematology department.
- Describe and explain basic concepts involving the formation and maturation of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
- Utilize interpretive, analytical, critical thinking, and problem solving skills in various laboratory situations. Evaluate laboratory assay data.
- Evaluate for sources of error, resolve situational and quality control problems.
- Evaluate/interpret laboratory data for presence of disease, and solve laboratory math problems.
- Describe and explain the major characteristics of leukemias and lymphomas, malignant lymphoid and monocytic disorders, plasma cell dyscrasias, and chronic myeloproliferative disorders.
- Evaluate WBC, RBC, and platelet morphology and relate them to pathophysiological condition.
- Evaluate other hematological tests such as reticulocyte counts, erythrocyte sedimentation rate and sickle cell screening and interpret the results.
- Select appropriate controls, calibrators, reagents and type of samples and method for test requested.
- Perform and evaluate various coagulation tests, such as PT and APTT and interpret the results.
- Explain the analytical principles of other less common tests of the hematology department.
- Demonstrate an understanding of all aspects of the coagulation mechanism.
- Describe disease states associated with abnormal coagulation values.
- Perform basic laboratory coagulation analysis.
- Evaluate laboratory test outcomes and correlate test results with patient condition(s).
- Evaluate the suitability of clinical specimens.
- Develop professionalism, communication skills, and interpersonal relationships.
- Demonstrate proficiency in phlebotomy procedures and tasks, including vein and capillary punctures and non-blood specimen processing, in and accurate, timely, and professional manner.
An introduction to the study and analysis of urine, body fluids, and other non-blood specimens. It emphasizes the physical, chemical, and microscopic examination of urine and body fluids, such as cerebrospinal fluid, serous and synovial fluids, semen, and feces. Students will interpret the results and correlate clinical values to health and disease states. Emphasis on procedures to ensure quality of results and safety guidelines for proper handling of samples. (Fall Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Diagram and describe renal anatomy and physiology.
- Define and demonstrate proper analysis of the three main components of a routine urinalysis.
- Analyze urinalysis data and how it relates to health or pathological conditions.
- Evaluate and demonstrate proper analysis of the various extravascular fluids such as CSF, serous fluids, and synovial fluids and interpret results as it correlates to healthy or pathophysiological conditions.
- Evaluate and interpret laboratory assay data, evaluate procedures for sources of error, and resolve situational and specimen related error by taking appropriate corrective action.
- Describe the various quality assurance processes and their uses that aid in the successful running of a urinalysis or body fluid specimen.
- Develop professionalism, communication skills, and interpersonal relationships.
This course covers the science of immunology and serology through the study of theories and processes related to natural body defenses. Included are the immune response, principles of antigen-antibody reactions, the principles of serological procedures as well as quality control, quality assurance, phlebotomy practice, and safety. This includes performance of serological procedures used to aid in the detection or diagnosis of certain diseases. Throughout this course, special emphasis is placed on correlating laboratory results with the patient's probable condition. (Fall Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Describe the various quality assurance procedures and their uses that aid in the successful running of an Immunology department.
- Explain the different aspects of the immune system and the function of each of the components.
- Explain events during the immune response.
- Describe the morphology and function of antibodies.
- Explain/describe the analytical principles, specimen requirements, and clinical significance of abnormal results of the various tests performed in the immunology department.
- Describe and explain aspects of common infectious diseases and other immunological disorders such as autoimmune diseases.
- Perform basic serological tests.
- Demonstrate proficiency in phlebotomy procedures and tasks, including vein and capillary punctures and non-blood specimen processing, in an accurate, timely, and professional manner.
Immunohematology is a specialized branch of laboratory medicine which involves the study of blood group antigens and antibodies. The processes of quality testing include quality control, basic laboratory techniques including phlebotomyand safety. It involves the study of the principles, procedures, clinical significance and practice of a wide variety of procedures including: donor selection, component collection, preparation and use, and techniques used to detect antigen/antibody reactions which may adversely affect a patient receiving a transfusion. The topics to be covered include the principles and procedures for donor screening, preparation and use of components, antigens and antibodies of the ABO, Rh and other blood group systems, pretransfusion testing procedures, hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn, neonatal and obstetrical transfusion practice, autoimmune hemolytic anemias, and adverse effects of transfusion. (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Describe the immune process as it applies to immunohematology.
- Describe the donor selection process.
- Describe the preparation and use of blood components.
- Identify and describe the characteristics of the antigens and antibodies of the ABO, Rh, and other blood group systems.
- Perform and understand routine blood bank procedures utilized in pre-transfusion testing.
- Perform and demonstrate an understanding for intermediate level blood bank testing in the resolution of antibody problems, hemolytic disease of the new born and transfusion reaction workups.
- Perform the basic tests that are used in the Immunohematology departments, such as blood typing, antibody screen and identification, cross-match procedures, and syphilis and mono test.
- Demonstrate proficiency in phlebotomy procedures and tasks, including vein and capillary punctures and non-blood specimen processing, in an accurate, timely, and professional manner.
This course connects the morphology and behavior of microorganisms to clinically significant situations.It includes the study and laboratory applications of antibiotic susceptibility methods and molecular techniques used in clinical microbiology.It also includes the pre-analytical phase of specimen collection and preparation and causative agents of various pathophysiological states. (Summer Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Identify and differentiate between the members of aerobic gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, list those members that are human pathogens and trace the methodology utilized for the identification of the bacteria.
- Define and classify the anaerobic bacteria, discuss the methodology for isolation and identification, list infections associated with anaerobic bacteria, and describe the pathogenicity of these organisms.
- Define basic concepts about antibiotics, trace the history of antibiotic therapy and antimicrobial susceptibility testing and describe current methodologies employed for the performance of antimicrobial susceptibility testing.
- Define the role of the clinical microbiology laboratory in the overall care of patients with infectious diseases, state the requirements for the collection and cultivation of microbiological specimens, and relate the interpretation of cultures.
- Utilize interpretive, analytical, critical thinking and problem solving skills in special microbiology clinical situations.
- Define and classify the pathogenic fungi, describe the methodology for isolation and identification, list the infections associated with fungi, and describe the pathogenicity of these organisms.
- Define and classify the Mycobacterium species, describe the methodology for isolation and identification, list the infections associated with Mycobacterium, and describe the pathogenicity of these organisms.
- Construct, describe, compare, and contrast the life cycles of various parasite.s
- Describe the proper procedures for collection and transport of Mycology, Mycobacterium, Parasitology and Viral cultures.
- Describe various lab analyses that are relevant to Mycology, Mycobacterium, Parasitology, and Virology.
- Demonstrate knowledge of positive professional attitude during lecture and laboratory sessions.
This course includes the theoretical and fundamental instrumentation methodologies, including practical concepts associated with testing procedures used in the chemistry department.These include important aspects of acid-base balance, electrolytes, carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, metabolites, hormones, and toxins as they relate to laboratory analysis.Emphasis is placed on major organ functions and the appropriate assays, collection and analysis of various body fluids, and laboratory findings to indicate disease processes. Included are applications of general laboratory principles, laboratory math, quality control, and variables affecting laboratory results. (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Describe the various quality assurance procedures and their uses that aid in the successful running of a chemistry department.
- Interpret and discuss the biochemical processes and their analytical methodologies.
- Evaluate and correlate physiological and biochemical information as clinical indicators or normal and pathological states.
- Perform laboratory analyses utilizing various analytical principles and techniques and determine the acceptability of the results according to quality control parameters that are accepted in clinical practice.
- Assess laboratory results and select the appropriate relationship to the clinical and biochemical states, processes, and diseases.
- Utilize interpretive, analytical, critical thinking, and problem solving skills in various laboratory situations; evaluate laboratory assay data, evaluate for sources of error, resolve situational and quality control problems, evaluate/interpret laboratory data for presence of disease, solve laboratory math problems.
- Demonstrate knowledge of positive professional attitude during lecture and lab.
- Perform lab responsibilities/duties (i.e. maintenance, record keeping, clean up, etc.) as necessary to include, but not limited to 1) instrument maintenance, 2) preparing reagents, 3) cleaning and decontaminating lab and properly storing chemicals.
- Demonstrate proficiency in phlebotomy procedures and tasks, including vein and capillary punctures and non-blood specimen processing, in an accurate, timely, and professional manner.
This course allows students to apply information and skills learned in AHMA 220, AHMT 201, AHMT 205, and AHMT 210 in a clinical setting in order to develop professionalism and proficiency. (Fall Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Demonstrate proficiency in the clinical objectives of the Urinalysis/ Body Fluids, Hematology/Coagulation, and Immunology/ Serology laboratoryby verbalizing the basic principles and procedures of the tests in the departments and demonstrating organizational and technical skills at the level required for each test performed.
- Demonstrate proficiency in phlebotomy procedures and tasks, including vein and capillary punctures and non-blood specimen processing, in an accurate, timely, and professional manner.
- Demonstrate initiative by reviewing course materials prior to and during the rotation, asking questions to advance understanding, research areas of weakness, and asking for additional work as needed.
- Demonstrate the importance of punctuality and attendance at each day of clinical by maintaining an excellent attendance record and promptly notifying the MLT faculty and the clinical faculty of any absences or tardiness.
- Demonstrate professional behavior by maintaining a strong positive attitude exhibiting a proactive attitude in developing the competencies required, developing and using good professional judgment in all matters concerning laboratory safety and interaction with patients, specimens, clinical staff, faculty and fellow students.
- Demonstrate understanding of the needs and requirements of the clinical laboratory through awareness of the departmental workloads, maintaining accurate records, restocking supplies as necessary and cleaning up work area periodically throughout the day and at the completion of clinical activities.
- Maintain a safe laboratory environment by adhering to all applicable safety regulations as presented throughout the MLT program which include, but are not limited to, appropriate disinfection of work area, maintaining a neat uncluttered work area, wearing of appropriate personal protective equipment, and reporting hazards observed.
This course is a health-related, work-based learning experience allowing students to apply laboratory skills in both on-site and off-site environments. Students will have direct supervision by clinical professionals at off-site environments. Experiences will include Urinalysis/Body Fluids, Hematology/ Coagulation, Phlebotomy, Immunohematology,and Clinical Chemistry. (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Demonstrate proficiency in the clinical objectives of the assigned Urinalysis/Body Fluids, Hematology/Coagulation, Phlebotomy, Immunohematology, and Clinical Chemistry laboratory by verbalizing the basic principles and procedures of the tests in the departments and demonstrating organizational and technical skills at the level required for each test performed.
- Demonstrate initiative by reviewing course materials prior to and during the rotation, asking questions to advance understanding, research areas of weakness, and asking for additional work as needed.
- Demonstrate the importance of punctuality and attendance at each day of clinical by maintaining an excellent attendance record and promptly notifying the MLT faculty and the clinical faculty of any absences or tardiness.
- Demonstrate professional behavior by maintaining a strong positive attitude exhibiting a proactive attitude in developing the competencies required, developing and using good professional judgment in all matters concerning laboratory safety and interaction with patients, specimens, clinical staff, faculty and fellow students.
- Demonstrate understanding of the needs and requirements of the clinicallaboratory through awareness of the departmental workloads, maintaining accurate records, restocking supplies as necessary and cleaning up work area periodically throughout the day and at the completion of clinical activities.
- Maintain a safe laboratory environment by adhering to all applicable safetyregulations as presented throughout the MLT program which include, but are not limited to, appropriate disinfection of work area, maintaining a neat uncluttered work area, wearing of appropriate personal protective equipment, and reporting hazards observed.
- Demonstrate proficiency in phlebotomy procedures and tasks, including vein and capillary punctures, and non-blood specimen processing, in an accurate, timely, and professional manner.
This course is a health-related, work-based learning experience allowing students to apply specialized occupational theory, skills, and concepts especially in the area of Immunohematology (Blood Bank) and Clinical Microbiology. (Summer Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Demonstrate proficiency in the clinical objectives of Immunohematology and Clinical Microbiology by verbalizing the basic principles and procedures of the tests in the departments and demonstrating organizational and technical skills at the level required for each test performed.
- Demonstrate initiative by reviewing course materials prior to and during the rotation, asking questions to advance understanding, research areas of weakness, and asking for additional work as needed.
- Demonstrate the importance of punctuality and attendance at each day of clinical by maintaining an excellent attendance record and promptly notifying the MLT faculty and the clinical faculty of any absences or tardiness.
- Demonstrate professional behavior by maintaining a strong positive attitude exhibiting a proactive attitude in developing the competencies required, developing and using good professional judgment in all matters concerning laboratory safety and interaction with patients, specimens, clinical staff, faculty and fellow students.
- Demonstrate understanding of the needs and requirements of the clinical laboratory through awareness of the departmental workloads, maintaining accurate records, restocking supplies as necessary and cleaning up work area periodically throughout the day and at the completion of clinical activities.
- Maintain a safe laboratory environment by adhering to all applicable safety regulations as presented throughout the MLT program which include, but are not limited to, appropriate disinfection of work area, maintaining a neat uncluttered work area, wearing of appropriate personal protective equipment, and reporting hazards observed.
- Demonstrate professional conduct and interpersonal communication skills with patients, laboratory personnel, other health care professionals, and with the public.
Allied Health: Medical Support (AHMS)
This course familiarizes students with the history and development of today's healthcare system in the United States. It provides an overview of the development of different types of facilities, the "continuum of care" concept that is the basis for modern healthcare, and examines the quality management process. Reimbursement mechanisms and managed care concepts that affect healthcare delivery are also included. (Fall Semester)
Course Outcomes
- List the types of healthcare facilities common today in the United States.
- Define "continuum of care."
- Describe the major influences on healthcare facilities and reimbursement methods.
- Discuss technological advances in medicine that have affected the healthcare industry.
- Recognize the major associations influencing medicine today and discuss their development and importance.
- Compare and contrast acute care, long-term care and ambulatory care.
- Visualize the organizational structure of typical healthcare organizations.
- Describe the development of compliance programs and the Quality Management process.
This course, designed for healthcare workers, emphasizes the importance of professionalism and the need to perform in a professional, ethical, legal, and competent manner in a medical office setting. (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Identify and demonstrate appropriate professional communication, such as positive attitude, manners, etiquette, cultural sensitivity, conflict resolution, etc.
- Recognize and avoid inappropriate communication, such as sarcasm, slang, negativity, etc.
- Ask clarifying questions when the meaning and intent of others' communication is unclear.
- Demonstrate alternative methods of communication when verbal and nonverbal barriers are present.
- Maintain patient confidentiality according to HIPAA regulations.
This course offers an in-depth analysis of data mobility including the hardware infrastructure (wires, wireless, and devices supporting them), the ISO stack, standards, internet protocols, federations and grids, the NHIN and other nationwide approaches. (Fall and Spring Semesters)
Course Outcomes
- Explain the functions of all layers of the ISO OSI models, including how they are interconnected and supported.
- Recommend components of networking hardware that meet standards and support information exchange.
- Analyze standards associated with the EHR functional model, the PHR functional model, and the family of profiles associated with specific domain functional requirements.
- Explain the process and value of EHR certification.
- Describe data standards required for the interoperable exchange of health care data, including terminology, data elements, document standards, imaging standards, and medical device standards.
- Describe components of health IT standards (including HL7 and TC215) for health information exchange used by various stakeholders.
- Examine additional standards related to shared and effective use of data, including clinical decision support.
- Describe enterprise architecture models, including centralization vs. federation and grids, service oriented architectures, and local implementations with respect to systems from single units to organizations, regions (RHIOS and HIEs), states, and nationwide healthcare information systems (NHIN).
- Incorporate professional and regulatory standards related to privacy, confidentiality, and security when implementing and maintaining networks and health information exchange systems, including NHIN.
This course will assist students in understanding fundamental concepts and techniques related to formatting medical documents. These techniques will increase productivity and accuracy and create professional looking documents for the medical office. (Fall Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Identify and prepare documents that are found in a medical record including History and Physician Exam, Operative Report, Progress notes, SOAP Notes, Discharge Directions, and Autopsy Report.
- Develop speed and accuracy while typing medical documents.
- Build a Medical Record for a patient, including H&P, chart notes, operative reports, lab reports, and autopsy reports.
This course is a systematic approach to scientific terminology that prepares students to function properly in fields related to the medical profession. Familiarity with word elements and competent use of a medical dictionary are emphasized. (All Semesters)
Course Outcomes
- Describe how word elements (root, prefix, suffix) work together to create specific medical terms.
- Combine word elements (root, prefix, suffix) and use appropriate spelling of medical terms.
- Recall the terminology for a wide range of body systems.
- Explain terms that describe postitions, directions, and planes of the body.
- Locate words in the dictionary based on their phonetic spelling.
- Pronounce and define healthcare and medical terms.
The most common commercial, managed care and federal health insurance plans in the U.S. will be discussed. Billing processes and procedures as well as legal, regulatory, and ethical issues in health insurance will also be covered. (Fall Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Apply legal, ethical and regulatory guidelines in health insurance and patient billing.
- Summarize the importance of HIPAA and other compliance strategies and the applications in medical billing and reporting, including confidentiality, information security, and privacy.
- Complete CMS-1500 claim forms accurately for commercial, managed care, and federal health insurance plans such as Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE, Worker's Compensation, and BlueCross/Blue Shield.
- Evaluate and perform billing processes and procedures with claims, EOB, ABN, and electronic data interchange.
- Reflect the complexities of managed care programs, reimbursement monitoring and reporting.
- Accurately calculate expected payments using payment methodologies and systems such as capitation, prospective payment systems, fee schedules, deductible, RBRVS, and DRGs.
- Use appropriate, effective techniques to trace delinquent claims and file appeals for denied claims.
- Outline the process of hospital billing and the forms and fee structures.
- Apply and interpret medical language appropriately in all areas of medical billing and electronic health records.
- Maintain charge master records to ensure complete, accurate, and compliant billing services.
This course is designed to prepare the medical office assistant for a variety of legal situations that arise in the medical office setting. Content stresses the importance of medical office personnel having knowledge of the law, personal protection, patient protection, physician protection, the duties of the physician, responsibility and standard of care. The course also examines case law, the difference between civil and criminal law, contracts, malpractice, and the economic impacts and offers a comprehensive vocabulary of legal terms. (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Define the elements of a contract as it applies to health care.
- Apply HIPAA concepts according to the law.
- Differentiate between criminal and civil law in relation to medical treatment.
- Discuss tort liability, contractual rights of physicians and patients and the concept of standard of care explore professional liability lawsuits.
- Explain the purpose of the medical record and importance of appropriate documentation.
- Discuss HIPAA confidentiality.
- Identify and discuss current issues in ethics and bioethics.
Students will be required to complete 150 hours of supervised training in medical coding through on-the-job training in an approved business or organization. Hours will be arranged to fit students' and employers' schedules. (All Semesters)
Course Outcomes
- Perform coding functions using CPT manuals.
- Perform coding functions using ICD-9-CM manuals as appropriate.
- Perform coding functions using HCPCS where appropriate.
- Perform or observe all areas of the competency list.
This course introduces statistical computation at the introductory level for use in health care facilities. Students will learn to extract information and perform statistical analysis for making decisions in the health care facility. (Intermittently)
Course Outcomes
- Define statistics.
- Review mathematical functions.
- Compute daily census and inpatient service days using the admission and discharge data.
- Compute the average daily census for a patient care unit given inpatient service days for any such unit.
- Calculate the direct and indirect bed turnover rate.
- Compute average length of stay.
- Define cancer mortality and calculate its rate.
- Compute autopsy rates including: gross, net, adjusted hospital, newborn, and fetal.
- Define and calculate the postoperative infection rate.
- Describe the uses of statistics computer within the HIM department in terms of unit cost, productivity, and staffing levels.
- Define and compute the mean, median and mode.
- Define and differentiate among range, variance, and standard deviation.
- Define and compute correlation.
- Differentiate between discrete data and continuous data.
- Create tables and graphs to display statistical information.
- Define inferential statistics.
- Explain different types of research.
This course introduces basic coding information for CPT, HCPCS, and ICD-9-CM coding sets, focusing on learning guidelines and assigning CPT, HCPCS, and ICD-9-CM codes to a wide range of abbreviated coding scenarios covering different body systems and medical specialties. Complete source documents will be used periodically and AHIMA's Standards of Ethical Coding will be reviewed. Basic billing & reimbursement issues will be discussed. (Coding will be taught for the physician reimbursement, not the facility, so ICD-9-CM will not be covered. These are covered in the Intermediate Coding classes.) (Fall and Spring Semesters)
Course Outcomes
- Extract necessary information from the medical record to find Diagnosis and Procedure.
- Use the Index and Tabular List in the code book to find the Diagnosis code that will prove medical necessity.
- Use the Index and Tabular List in the code book to find Procedure Code associated with the diagnosis and procedure.
- Analyze and accurately interpret evidence to make appropriate decisions based on professional standards.
This comprehensive course, designed for students pursuing medical field careers, covers administrative office procedures, telephone skills, medical law, employment law, appointment scheduling, office facilities, communication and electronic medical records. (Fall Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Utilize proper etiquette using various media, such as office phone, cellphone, social media, face-to-face, computer, etc.
- Perform receptionist's duties, exhibit the ability to triage phone messages, patient walk-in emergencies, and schedule patients accordingly.
- Describe office policies and procedures such as opening and closing a medical office.
- Obtain referrals and precertifications to assist with appointment scheduling and inpatient and outpatient admissions.
This capstone course provides students the opportunity to code from medical files using ICD-10-CM and CPT codes as necessary, complete appropriate insurance forms, and place the necessary codes on the 3M encoder software system. This course helpsstudents bridge the gap between theoretical class work and practical application. (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Evaluate major alternatives (using relevant sources) when solving problems, formulating a point of view, or making a decision.
- Assess medical record for necessary components and code appropriately for reimbursement.
- Use encoder software to arrive at the appropriate diagnosis and procedure codes.
- Determine the main question to be answered, problem to be solved, or issue to be resolved.
- Identify the most critical implications and consequences of their reasoning.
This course provides hands-on training to students seeking employment in medical offices. It covers the fundamentals of ICD-10, SPT, and HCPCS coding and is appropriate for the beginner or intermediate level office staff as well. (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Utilize ethical values when dealing with confidentiality or personal information contained in a health record.
- Apply HIPAA guidelines to healthcare reimbursement and medical office functions.
- Demonstrate a working knowledge of basic insurance concepts and terminology.
- Apply basic coding guidelines to assign and sequence procedural and diagnostic codes.
- Manage accounts receivables by inputting patient information, scheduling appointments, and processing billing, reports and insurance claims.
- File and manage insurance claim forms in compliance with guidelines for Medicare/Medicaid, Tricare, Worker's Compensation, and Blue Cross/Blue Shield.
- Maintain claim management techniques to trace delinquent claims and problem solve denied or unpaid claims.
- Complete health insurance forms completely and accurately using Medisoft accounting package.
- Successfully complete case studies using software.
Students are required to complete 150 hours of supervised training in the medical coding or health care office management field in an approved facility. Hours will be arranged to fit students' and employers' schedules. (All Semesters)
Course Outcomes
- Code real cases for World Health Organization and insurance reimbursement using ICD-9-CM, ICD-10-CM, CPT, and HCPCS coding manuals.
- Interact with the team of coders, physicians, and other medical providers to find the appropriate codes and information for the medical records.
Allied Health: Physical Therapy (AHPT)
This is the first of two sequential skills and procedures courses in the PTA program. The following topics are covered: basic principles and procedures of physical therapy; basic care skills and application techniques; use of assistive devices; architectural and environment barriers; wound care and debridement techniques; definition and measurement of vital signs and application to emergency situations; documentation; incorporation of medical terminology and abbreviations; basic principles of tissue inflammation and edema management; introduction to pain theories, conditions, and assessment; physiological principles, indications/contraindications, and application of physical agents discussed in lecture; and the PTA's role in discharge planning and the importance of communication with the PT. (Fall Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Describe the purpose of skin assessment and demonstrate competence in components of wound management: isolation techniques, sterile technique, application and removal of dressing or agents and identifications of precautions for dressing removal identified in the plan of care established by the PT.
- Define, measure, record vital signs, and apply knowledge to various medical conditions.
- Explain and demonstrate proper positioning for prevention of medical complications and comfort of the patient.
- Perform wheelchair measurements, properly fit and educate on functional activities and proper care of the wheelchair based on patient's individual patient diagnosis and ability.
- Identify proper body mechanics and posture awareness for lifting, carrying, reaching and push/pull activities and apply knowledge to patient/client scenarios.
- Discuss and apply measures for effective patient and caregiver education that focus on meeting the needs of patients, caregivers, healthcare providers, etc. for interventions presented in this course.
- Describe and demonstrate safe and proper fit and use of various assistive devices and special equipment involved with gait training and functional mobility skills based on the patient's individual patient diagnosis and ability including educating the patient caregiver in safety of and care of the assistive device.
- Incorporate medical terminology, appropriate abbreviations and communicate an understanding of the plan of care developed by the PT to achieve short and long-term goals by using concise written and verbal communication.
- Demonstrate knowledge and competence when implementing selected components of interventions identified in the plan of care established by the PT including the following biophysical agents:
- compression therapies
- cryotherapy
- superficial thermal agents
- paraffin
- hydrotherapy
- Discuss and explain the basic principles of tissue inflammation and edema management and recognize normal and abnormal integumentary changes; including obtaining and documenting accurate anthropometric measurements.
- Identify the different types of pain and pain assessments as well as determine the proper use of a variety of reliable pain assessment tools.
- Explainand xhibitprfssinalnducttorflta mmimnttomtstandardsin the profssinf phsicalthrapythatrelegal,thal,safeandulturallydvrseas it applies tothePTA.
- Describe the PTA's role in discharge planning and the importance of communication with the PT and the commitment to meeting the expectations of the patient.
- Perform inspection of physical environment, measure physical space and recognize safety issues and barriers in health care, home, community and work environments.
- Utilize the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) model to properly identify a patient/client's impairments, activity and participation limitations through various learning activities.
- Exhibit an understanding of the importance of medical asepsis through proper procedure including use of standard precautions at all times.
- Perform proper draping techniques for the administration of physical therapy interventions addressed in this course including range of motion activities, functional mobility, modalities and wound care.
- Demonstrate competence in implementing selected components of interventions identified in the plan of care established by the PT. Interventions include:
- Application of Devices and Equipment: assistive/adaptive devices and prosthetic and orthotic devices
- Functional Training in Self-care and in Domestic, Education, Work, Community, Social and Civic Life
- Manual Therapy Techniques: passive range of motion
- Motor Function Training (balance, gait, etc.)
- Patient/Client Education
- Identify components of normal gait and apply knowledge to gait training techniques.
- Recognize effective verbal/non-verbal/written communication with all patient, family, caregivers, and health care providers, third party payers, etc. involved in routine patient care experiences.
- Recognize the various healthcare-billing sources utilized and demonstrate accurate and timely information for billing and payment purposes.
- Demonstrate competence in performing components of data collection skills essential for carrying out the plan of care by administering appropriate tests and measures (before, during and after interventions) for the following areas:
- Aerobic Capacity and Endurance: measurement of standard vital signs; recognize and monitor responses to positional changes and activities (e.g. orthostatic hypotension, response to exercise)
- Anthropometrical characteristics: measurements of height, weight, length and girth
- Mental Functions: detect changes in a patient's state of arousal, mentation and cognition
- Assistive Technology: identify the individual's ability to care for the device; recognize changes in skin condition and safety factors while using devices and equipment
- Gait, Locomotion and Balance: determine the safety, status, and progression of patients while engaged in gait, locomotion, balance, wheelchair management and mobility.
- Integumentary Integrity: detect absent or altered sensation, normal and abnormal integumentary changes; activities, positioning, and postures that aggravate or relieve pain or altered sensations, or that can produce associated skin trauma and recognize viable versus non-viable tissue.
- Pain: administer standardized questionnaires, graphs, behavioral scales or visual analog scales for pain; recognize activities, positioning, and postures that aggravate or relieve pain or altered sensations.
- Posture: determine normal and abnormal alignment of trunk and extremities at rest and during activities.
- Self-Care and Civic, Community, Domestic, Education, Social and Work Life: Inspect the physical environment and measure physical spaces; recognize safety and barriers in the home, community and work environments; recognize level of functional status;
- Ventilation, Respiration and Circulation: detect signs and symptoms of respiratory distress, and activities that aggravate or relieve edema, pain, dyspnea, or other symptoms; describe thoracoabdominal movements with activity, and cough characteristics
- Based on a case scenario, demonstrate ability to interview patients/clients, caregivers, and family to obtain information related to prior and current level of function and general health status prior to implementing intervention.
- Apply knowledge of patients ability to participate in physical therapy based on the review of health records (e.g., lab values, diagnostic tests, specialty reports, narrative, consults, and physical therapy documentation) prior to carrying out the PT plan of care.
- Report any changes in the patient/clients medical or functional status or progress to the supervising physical therapist.
- Selects and implements correct patient care measures related to safety and emergency response in a variety of health care environments.
- Apply knowledge and clinical judgement while considering the patient/client's level of function, medical status, short term and long-term goals, cultural perspective and their environment prior to carrying out the plan of care established by the PT.
- Identify circumstances based on a case scenario in which the PTA should report to appropriate authorities suspected cases of fraud and abuse related to utilization of and payment for PT and other health care services.
- Identify basic concepts in professional literature including, but not limited to, validity, reliability and level of statistical significance.
- Review journal articles from peer reviewed journals that represent a high level of evidence and provide a written critique related to physical therapy content presented in AHPT 101.
This coursegives the student an overview of the Physical Therapy profession by providing a historical perspective, as well as an understanding of its philosophy in relation to the professional organization; an overview of the roles of the Physical Therapy staff members in the clinical settings as well as members of the health care team in various delivery systems; development of interpersonal communication skills relating to the profession; and an understanding of the commitment of the graduate to continued personal and professional development. This course provides an overview of ethical and legal issues relating to the role of the PTA in health care delivery. It includes such topics as financing of physical therapy; regulations governing PTA's; code of ethics; the purpose of documentation and types of medical records; an introduction to evidence-based paractice and professional literature; and scope of PT and PTA practice. (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Demonstrate the ability to explain the history, role, objectives, structure, and relevance of membership of the American Physical Therapy Association and the Montana Chapter of the APTA.
- Describe the roles of the physical therapist assistant as pertained to 4 areas of the profession regarding interventions.
- Identify basic medical, legal, ethical, confidentiality, professional development, and lifelong learning opportunity principles.
- Explain the role of the Physical Therapist, Physical Therapist Assistant, and Aide and the student within clinical education as it relates to the health care team, to society, and to each other.
- Demonstrate an awareness of effective communication strategies, the ability to educate others, and other disciplines as a healthcare professional; Interpret the different types of legal and ethical conduct in the physical therapy field.
- Identify the APTA's "Code of Ethics", "Hippocratic Oath," and the "Patient's Bill of Rights".
- Describe the relationship between health care providers and third party payers such as Medicare vs Medicaid.
- Describe the purpose of documentation and the different types of medical records.
- Examine and discuss issues and trends in physical therapy education, issues relevant to physical therapist assistants, direct access and referral for profit, issues and specifics of informed consent, the health professional's role in disclosing information to patients, and ethical challenges in working with professional peers.
- Demonstrate a commitment to obtaining the necessities in meeting patient's and consumer's needs and recognize social responsibility, advocacy, and importance of participation in community and service organizations and activities.
- Evaluate and explain the differences between two state practice acts.
- Accurately describe aspects of lifelong learning and continued education requirements to assist with performance improvement activities for the administration of physical therapy services.
- Demonstrate knowledge of AMA style of referencing through two projects during the semester.
- Collaborate with others in complicated, dynamic, and/or ambiguous situations.
This is the second in the series of procedures and application courses. The following topics are covered: theoretical principles and application of cardiopulmonary rehab, industrial rehab, ergonomics, gait analysis and training; prosthetic and orthotic application and treatment; breathing exercises and strategies, airway clearance techniques;biofeedback, topical applications, electrotherapy, ultrasound; light therapies; procedure and application of cervical and lumbar traction; theory and application of massage/manual therapy. Students will accurately document the treatment and patient's response within various related case studies as well as present research to the class about a selected therapeutic modality using peer-reviewed journals. (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Identify the differences between work hardening and work conditioning along with which assessments are made within industrial medicine.
- Identify pathological factors and physical barriers leading to postural malalignments within the area of ergonomics; recognize safety and barriers in work environments.
- Describe physiology, factors influencing, and disease processes associated with the respiratory system.
- Demonstrate correct airway clearance techniques including breathing exercises, coughing techniques, and secretion mobilization.
- Demonstrate competence in implementing interventions using the following biophysical agents identified in the plan of care established by the physical therapist: Biofeedback, Electrotherapeutic agents, Deep thermal agents, Mechanical traction, Light therapies
- Identify and integrate appropriate evidenced based resources to support clinical-decision making in the use of biophysical agents and other modalities within the plan of care established by the physical therapist.
- Integrate knowledge of data collection/tests and measures related to gait and locomotion including safety, status, and progression.
- Demonstrate knowledge of normal and pathological gait patterns and identify therapeutic exercises and activities specific to individual deficits in gait and locomotion performance.
- Demonstrate knowledge of the appropriate application of prosthetic and orthotic devices to the upper and lower extremities to help augment functional activities.
- Demonstrate competence in implementing the following manual therapy techniques within the plan of care established by the physical therapist: therapeutic massage, soft tissue mobilization, and manual traction.
- Identify strategies in lymphedema management including indications, contraindications, and precautions.
- Identify abnormal breathing patterns, detect signs and symptoms of respiratory distress, and activities that aggravate/relieve edema, pain, dyspnea, or other respiratory symptoms ; describe throacoabdominal movements and breathing patterns with activity, and cough and sputum characteristics.
- Identify principles of cardiac rehabilitation and pulmonary rehabilitation, including safe and appropriate interventions during the various phases of rehabilitation.
- Differentiate between normal and abnormal physiological responses for patients with cardiovascular and respiratory system pathologies, through observation and the collection of data including vital signs, during the performance of aerobic capacity and endurance activities in a laboratory setting.
- Identify emergency situations as they relate to patient safety, contraindications of treatment, and patient response through various case scenarios relating to application of biophysical agents, cardiovascular training and cardiac and pulmonary rehab.
- Complete accurate documentation of interventions provided regarding application of biophysical agents and manual therapy techniques within the plan of care established by the physical therapist.
- Apply clinical knowledge to appropriately adjust parameters in the application of biophysical agents as indicated by patient response, and recognize whether interventions are effective in progressing the patient toward goals within the plan of care.
- Utilize clinical reasoning processes to implement appropriate changes within the treatment intervention established by the physical therapist based on the patient's clinical changes (functional, physical, emotional) to provide comprehensive management in patient scenarios.
- Interview the patient/client to obtain current information related to prior and current level of function and general health status to determine safety and effectiveness of the chosen intervention within the plan of care established by the physical therapist.
- Communicate effectively with the patient/client to ensure that he or she understands the reason for the selected interventions and any risks involved.
- Monitor and adjust interventions within the plan of care in response to patient/client status and clinical indications, including assessment of comfort and pain levels in response to interventions.
- Integrate knowledge of wound management considerations in the application of physical agents for tissue repair including sterile technique and dressing application/removal.
- Demonstrate ability to increase patient and healthcare provider safety in the clinical setting, including proper maintenance and application of biophysical devices and equipment.
This course provides the student with an understanding of the human musculoskeletal system relative to the biomechanical elements of normal and abnormal human motion as well as osteology and arthrology in relation to muscle action and joint mechanics. The study and skills of goniometry, manual muscle testing, and palpation will also be covered. (Fall Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Describe various general concepts of kinesiology, including kinematics, biomechanics, and clinical kinesiology, as well as identify and explain types of motions which occur within planes and around axes including rotary, translatory, and curvilinear.
- Demonstrate proficiency in the palpation of bony landmarks.
- Demonstrate proficiency with goniometric techniques of measurement, including their documentation.
- Describe physiological and accessory movements of joints.
- Explain force, gravity, and equilibrium as it relates to forces in the body.
- Describe positive and negative linear forces, acceleration and apply the principles of force to static and mechanical traction.
- Differentiate between different classes of levers and apply them to torque, the use of pulleys, and the resolution of forces.
- Demonstrate an understanding of muscles contraction, including excitation-contraction coupling, different fiber types (slow twitch, intermediate, and fast twitch), and the five types of muscle contractions.
- List factors which influence strength of muscles.
- Demonstrate an understanding of posture and equilibrium maintenance.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the specific joints, muscles, origins, insertions, and actions within all regional areas.
- Demonstrate knowledge of all the test positions, hand placements for resistance and stabilization, and commands for grading muscle in all body regions.
- Demonstrate proficiency in locating and testing the dermatomes and reflexes of the body.
This course introduces students to the pathophysiology; etiology; clinical signs and symptoms; and management of selected pathological and injury-related disorders treated in physical therapy. Pathologies discussed include disorders of the following systems: immune, endocrine, integumentary, cardiovascular, respiratory, hematologic, musculoskeletal, hepatic, gastrointestinal, renal and urologic, and nervous. The course includes student presentations on disorders pertinent to physical therapy as well as discussions on specific case studies applying the Guide for Conduct of the Physical Therapist Assistant and the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health, and how they apply to the treatment of certain diseases. (Fall Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Describe the role of physical therapy in the treatment of various pathophysiological conditions.
- Define etiology, prevalence in special populations, and the role of physical therapy through the course assignments.
- Apply pathophysiology knowledge with the implementation of physical therapy interventions using critical thinking skills.
- Identify clinically relevant common pathological disorders and/or diseases of the body's major organ systems (nervous, respiratory, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, hematologic, endocrine, immune, integumentary, lymphatic, hepatic and biliary, gastrointestinal, genital and reproductive, renal and urologic, and other) seen in physical therapy practice in regard to their signs, symptoms, complications, and common treatments seen in the medical community.
- Complete an assignment utilizing current health care literature (with emphasis on peer reviewed journals) on an issue related to a specific pathology; addressing its effect on the human body, and how it is typically treated in physical therapy.
- Describe the pathophysiology of various neoplasms.
- Discuss specific case studies relating the APTA's Guide for Conduct of the Physical Therapist Assistant and how it relates to treatment of certain diseases.
- Describe how responses to common pathologic conditions may vary with age, gender and race.
- Discuss the International Classification of Function, Disability and Health (ICF) to describe a patient's/client's impairments, activity, and participation limitations, including influences of cultural, socioeconomic, physical, and emotional factors, as it may influence treatment outcomes.
- Differentiate among common types of pharmacological agents including indications, actions, and side effects, and how they could potentially affect clinical decision-making by the physical therapist assistant.
- Review patient health records and apply knowledge of lab values, diagnostic tests, and reports from health care professionals of various disciplines to answer questions in a case study/scenario.
The purpose of this clinical affiliation is to provide the student with an opportunity to apply skills and techniques learned in AHPT 101, AHPT 205, AHPT 206, and AHPT 218under the appropriate supervision of the clinical instructor. This course will include a four-week clinical rotation at an approved site. (Fall Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Demonstrate refinement of skills, techniques, treatment preparation, and follow through acquired in previous PTA coursework.
- Demonstrate development of skills in verbal, nonverbal and written communication with patients, families, peers and supervisors to achieve patient outcomes that are based on the plan of care and that are accurate, timely, and concise using proper format with frequent guidance from the clinical instructor.
- Develop and present educational material for the purpose of patient, family, caregiver and health care team with frequent guidance from the clinical instructor.
- Perform responsibilities as a PTA student by following the established plan of care including treating patients and reporting status to the supervising PT with frequent guidance from the clinical instructor.
- Demonstrate advanced beginner level of competence in implementation of the following data collection skills as assigned/available during the clinical experience:
- Range of motion using appropriate measurement device
- Muscle performance (manual muscle testing, muscle length, muscle tone)
- Anthropometric measurements
- Pain level
- Joint integrity and mobility
- Integumentary integrity
- Vital signs
- Posture
- Self-care status (observation, standardized assessments)
- Safety and status in gait, locomotion, and balance
- Aerobic capacity and endurance
- Ventilation, respiration, and circulation
- Demonstrate advanced beginner level of competence in implementation of the following components of treatment interventions as assigned/available during the clinical experience within the plan of care established by the physical therapist: Passive range of motion, active range of motion, active assistive range of motion, Therapeutic exercise, Ambulation with assistive devices, Transfers and bed mobility/positioning, Standard isolation precautions, Wound management, Sterile technique and sterile field, Compression therapies, Hydrotherapy, Superficial thermal agents, Cryotherapies, Contrast bath.
- Breathing exercises and coughing technique.
- Recognize when an intervention should not be provided due to a change in medical status and when an intervention by the physical therapist is necessary.
- Consistently demonstrate the ability to perform PTA skills and behaviors legally, ethically and safely with occasional guidance for unusual situations.
- Participate in routine administrative procedures of the clinic/facility including billing and patient scheduling with direct guidance from the clinical instructor.
- Demonstrate behavior and clinical judgment that indicates acknowledgement, respect and incorporation of the cultural, religious, and individual differences of patients/clients, caregivers, and family members when providing physical therapy interventions.
- Adhere to legal practice standards for the student physical therapist within the context of the clinical setting in relation to patient care and fiscal management/billing procedures with guidance from the clinical instructor.
- Identify ethical or legal concerns within the clinical setting and discuss ramifications or possible solutions with the clinical instructor.
- Recognize, document, and report to the supervising physical therapist any changes in patient status.
- Accurately document patient treatments using the facility's electronic medical record system or SOAP note format.
- Demonstrate sound clinical decisions within the plan of care to assess and maximize patient and healthcare provider safety and comfort while performing selected interventions.
- Demonstrate personal lifestyle, wellness, injury prevention and health promoting behavior efforts as a model for the patient/client.
- Respond with guidance to patient/client and environmental emergencies that commonly occur in the clinical setting.
- Interview patients/clients and caregivers to obtain information related to current and prior level of function and health status.
- Explain the roles of the PT, PTA, and other members of the health care team and the significance of those roles in the provision of optimum care to the patient/client.
- Identify caring behaviors by healthcare workers and model caring behaviors in interactions with patients/clients.
- Monitor and modify interventions in the plan of care in response to patient/client status and clinical indications with guidance from the clinical instructor.
- Describe ways that the physical therapy profession contributes to society and identify areas to serve in the physical therapy profession and the community.
- Seek clarification of the plan of care and selected interventions from the clinical instructor and/or supervising physical therapist.
- Demonstrate competency in reviewing health records (e.g., lab values, diagnostic tests, specialty reports, narrative, consults, and physical therapy documentation) prior to carrying out the PT plan of care.
- Achieve "Advanced Beginner" competency on the Clinical Performance Instrument (CPI) for all items applicable to the clinical setting and dependent upon available opportunities in that setting.
This course is an introduction to neuroanatomy and neurophysiology in relationship to neurological pathologies of the brain and spinal cord commonly treated by physical therapy. Through this course the student is also introduced to neurological development: normal vs. abnormal - birth through adult; disease processes and outcomes; and neurophysiological routines used for treatment. Students will become familiar with general guidelines for completing a sensory assessment utilizing testing protocol. Principles and treatment of specific neurological disabilities are also presented. (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Describe the basic structure and function of the nervous system and relate to the nervous system reaction to neurologic injury including cerebral circulation.
- Identify the innervation of all the muscles of the extremities, pectoral girdle, pelvic girdle, and some of the muscles of the trunk, face, head and neck.
- Recognize and describe the major clinical manifestations identified in patients commonly referred for physical therapy with various neuromuscular diagnoses.
- Identify the spinal pathways that mediate sensation and motor input.
- Describe and recognize the role of physical therapy and the PTA in the treatment of various pediatric and adult neurological disorders.
- Identify the purposes and general guidelines for completing a sensory assessment utilizing testing protocol of each sensory modality.
- Describe and recognize altered and/or absent sensation and integumentary changes.
- Describe and demonstrate sensory training/retraining, perceptual training and activities that relieve or aggravate skin trauma associated with decreased sensation.
- Describe and safely and accurately perform treatment interventions promoting normal motor development, positioning and handling techniques, motor control and motor learning, neuromuscular education and reeducation, stimulus and response for selected reflexes, righting and equilibrium reactions, facilitation and inhibition, and task specific performance training.
- Differentiate among the concepts of motor control, motor learning, and motor development.
- Define muscle tone in terms of flaccid, spastic, rigid, hypertonic and hypotonic and demonstrate inhibition or facilitation techniques to balance abnormal mm tone and restore function.
- Discuss the characteristics and milestones of gross and fine motor developmental progression.
- Recognize the differences between various neurological treatment approaches and theories such as NDT, PNF, Sensory Integration, Rood, Brunnstrom, and Constraint Induced Therapy.
- Demonstrate competence in implementing interventions identified in the plan of care established by the PT for patients across the lifespan with various neurologic disorders presented through case studies including: Motor Function Training (Positioning, Balance, Gait Training, etc.), Application of Devices, wheelchairs and Equipment, Therapeutic Exercise, Functional Training, Patient/ Client Education.
- Demonstrate competence in performing appropriate test and measures, data collection and observation for the patient with neuromuscular involvement essential for carrying out the plan of care developed by the PT within the scope of work of the PTA in the following areas: Mental functions, Assistive technology, Gait, locomotion and balance, Integumentary integrity, Muscle performance, Neuromotor development, Posture, Range of Motion, Home Environmental Assessment, Standardized questionnaires/functional assessment tools.
- Demonstrate consideration of ethics, safety, culture, social history and cognitive abilities in physical therapy management of the neurologic patient across the lifespan.
- Provide the rationale for the selected interventions within the plan of care developed by the PT to achieve short and long term goals and outcomes for patients with neuromuscular involvement.
- Complete thorough, accurate, logical, concise, timely, and legible documentation relative to neurological interventions that follows guidelines and specific documentation formats required by state practice acts, the practice setting (i.e. FIM), and other regulatory agencies.
- Provide effective education for those affected by neurologic conditions that is appropriate to meet the needs of patients, caregivers, and healthcare personnel to enhance the patient care experience in given case scenarios.
- Recognizes contribution of the PTA to discharge planning considerations for the patient with a neurologic condition including selection of appropriate assistive/adaptive devices, home assessment, instruction in home exercise program and education of patient and family members.
- Compare and contrast common neurological diagnoses and their underlying pathologies and PT management: Stroke, TBI, Spinal Cord, Injury, UMN/LMN Diseases.
- Demonstrate understanding of assessment of the patient's mental functions using a variety of methods including the Glasgow Coma Scale and the Rancho Levels of Cognitive Functioning.
- Adjusts communication style to accommodate communication deficits including aphasia, visual, cognitive or auditory impairments due to neurological impairment.
- Recognizes when a physical therapy intervention should not be provided to patients with neurologic conditions due to changes in the patient's status and reports changes to the supervising physical therapist.
- Develop and present a comprehensive oral presentation of a selected neurological disorder/disease utilizing appropriate evidence based resources to support clinical decision making and treatment progression.
- Develop a comprehensive, progressive, safe, evidence based treatment session within the physical therapy plan of care for the patient with a common neurological disorder/ disease.
- Identify basic pharmacological considerations in patients with various neurological conditions.
This course introduces students to pediatric and adult musculoskeletal pathologies and management of orthopedic and surgical problems commonly seen by physical therapy. Course content will include basic biomechanics and mechanisms of orthopedic injuries and disease; survey of surgical repair with emphasis on rehabilitation; evaluation techniques and treatments used by physical therapists; use of manual muscle testing for orthopedic pathologies; theoretical application of therapeutic exercise programs and equipment commonly used for treatment of various orthopedic conditions and surgical procedures. (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Demonstrate comprehension of basic orthopedic terminology, principles of clinical assessment, concepts of normal and abnormal structure of musculoskeletal tissue, detection of normal and abnormal joint movement.
- Apply accurate understanding with procedures for diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic/bone disorders, basic concepts of fracture/dislocation pathology, physiology of repair and surgical vs. Non-surgical management and orthopedic disease with physical therapy rehabilitation management.
- Describe and identify changes in the presence or absence of muscle mass, normal or abnormal length, strength, tone and texture and basic concepts of the myofascial system and connective tissue injuries.
- Demonstrate competence in planning and implementing therapeutic exercise programs for selected orthopedic and surgical conditions and develop strategies to communicate effectively with all stakeholders involved in the complete patient/client experience.
- Apply the basic principles involved in assistive technology including the use of and care of assistive, adaptive, orthotic, protective, supportive, and prosthetic devices; including the individual's and caregivers ability to care for the device; recognize changes in skin condition as well as safety factors while using devices and equipment.
- Describe and accurately perform PROM, AROM and stretching techniques according to various orthopedic/ surgical conditions.
- Describe basic principles of residual limb wrapping, therapeutic wrapping and athletic/kinesiotaping taping and appropriately perform various taping/wrapping techniques.
- Demonstrate competence in implementing physical therapy interventions identified in the plan of care established by the PT including:
- Application of Devices and Equipment, Manual Therapy Techniques, Gait Training, Patient/Client Education, Therapeutic Exercise.
- Select and perform appropriate test and measures, data collection and observation processes essential for carrying out the plan of care developed by the physical therapist within the scope of work of the PTA in orthopedically involved patients including but not limited to:
- Assistive Technology, Gait, Locomotion and Balance, Joint Integrity and Mobility, Integumentary Integrity, Muscle performance, Pain, Posture, Self- Care and Civic, Community, Domestic, Education, Social and Work Life, Range of Motion.
- Given an orthopedic patient scenario, accurately document following guidelines and specific documentation formats required by state, practice setting and other regulatory agencies.
- Develop an understanding and appreciation of safety and ethical obligation with respect to the role of the PTA in the orthopedic setting.
- Apply knowledge for the selection of mobility/transfer techniques and therapeutic activities of various orthopedic diagnoses based on patient's level of involvement, weight bearing status, pain, resources available and fiscal considerations of the health care delivery system.
- Given an orthopedic patient scenario, implement a comprehensive physical therapy plan of care as directed by the PT including knowledge of precautions and safety considerations.
- Identify the different joint mobilization grades for the spine and extremities and their clinical significance including an understanding of contraindications and precautions.
- Perform joint mobilization techniques on selected upper and lower extremity joints.
- Determine when an intervention should not be performed on a patient with an orthopedic condition due to clinical indications, screening tests, pain or when the direction to perform the intervention is beyond that which is appropriate for the PTA.
- Identify and integrate appropriate evidence based resources to support clinical decision making for the functional progression of the orthopedic patient within the plan of care established by the physical therapist.
- Demonstrate effective communication with all stakeholders, including patients/clients, family members, caregivers, members of the healthcare team, and payer sources.
- Explore various clinically relevant special topics and interventions including therapeutic exercise techniques, manual therapy techniques, pharmacology , women's health, imaging, and future continuing education topics as they relate to the orthopedic patient population.
This course introduces the physical therapist assistant student to topics such as exercise physiology, exercise prescription tailored to the individual, general therapeutic exercise, aquatic therapy, relaxation techniques, exercise and establishing a home exercise program. Current health practices and theory will be addressed in relation to nutrition/wellness within special populations emphasizing preventative practice. Students will become familiar with contraindications for exercise training in persons with various system or musculoskeletal disabilities and will understand how to progress an individual through a therapeutic exercise program established by a physical therapist. (Fall Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Upon completion of this course the student will, with a minimum of 78% competency:
- Describe the role of physical therapy in nutrition and wellness for all individuals, including special populations.
- Describe how the processes of motor unit recruitment and muscle force development, the length-tension and force-velocity relationships, postural stability and movement are affected through exercise.
- Describe exercise tolerance, contraindications, conditioning and reconditioning and response to exercise training in patients with various systemic or musculoskeletal disorders.
- Compare and contrast the processes of aerobic and anaerobic metabolism, causes of fatigue, and effect of exercise training.
- Identify preventative care practices in various scenarios and populations.
- Identify the principles of therapeutic exercise in relation to breathing and movement strategies for relaxation and airway clearance, including breathing techniques, positioning, and secretion mobilization.
- Apply health, wellness, prevention, and fitness conceptual and procedural knowledge with the implementation of physical therapy interventions with emphasis on safety at the level of the individual and community awareness.
- Identifyspecific therapeutic exercises for an individual within a plan of care established by the physical therapist, taking into consideration their needs and diagnosis.
- Demonstrate the ability to establish an effective home exercise program (HEP), including implementation of effective patient education and communication strategies, taking into consideration the individual's needs.
- Identify key concepts of balance and fall prevention including knowledge of standardized tests.
- Apply knowledge of supine, prone, sidelying, sitting, and standing exercises and how to progress an individual through their plan of care established by a physical therapist.
- Identify the difference between AROM, PROM, AAROM, and stretching exercises and when it is warranted for specific patient populations and diagnoses.
- Describe the physiological demands and adaptation therapeutic exercise has on changes in metabolism, flexibility, strength, endurance, and emotional state.
- Identify key concepts of aquatic therapy on specific populations and diagnosis.
- Describe special considerations for application of therapeutic exercise techniques across the lifespan including pediatric and geriatric populations.
- Describe adverse effects of bed rest, immobilization and inactivity on all systems of the body.
- Describe appropriate test and measure techniques/data collection and observation processes related to the plan of care established by the physical therapist and within the scope of work of the physical therapist assistant in the following areas:
- Therapeutic exercise (e.g. muscle performance, flexibility)
- Cardiovascular (e.g. aerobic endurance, exercise response including vital signs and visual analog scales/charts)
- Pulmonary (e.g. breathing patterns, cyanosis, dyspnea)
- Balance and coordination
- Demonstrate knowledge of safe and effective interventions related to the plan of care established by the physical therapist and within the scope of work of the PTA for the following patient care activities:
- Therapeutic exercise
- Cardiopulmonary rehabilitation
- Cardiac rehabilitation
- Balance and coordination
- Demonstrate knowledge of when communication is necessary related to adjustments or changes the PTA has made in the interventions provided within the plan of care based on clinical indications.
- Explain important data to collect on a patient with a given pathology/condition to assure readiness for therapeutic exercise based on the plan of care.
- Identify the unique changes that occur in the musculoskeletal system and other systems of the body during pregnancy and the post-partum period and special considerations in exercise prescription.
This is the second of three full-time clinical experiences. The students will continue to build on their clinical experiences from AHPT 210and previous coursework. This course will include a six-week clinical rotation at an approved site. (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Demonstrate communication skills (verbal, nonverbal, and written) with patients, families, peers and supervisors through the utilization of effective teaching skills, by responding appropriately to patients' feelings by demonstrating respect for the patients' differences, values, and preferences, by adapting appropriate verbal communication levels and giving effective commands to obtain desired responses and to achieve patient outcomes based on the plan of care in an accurate, timely and concise manner.
- Adhere to legal practice standards, including all federal, state, and institutional regulations related to patient/client care and fiscal management; recognize and report suspected cases of fraud and abuse related to utilization and payment for physical therapy services.
- With direction from the supervising physical therapist and/or clinical instructor, recognize and report to appropriate authorities suspected cases of abuse of vulnerable populations.
- Demonstrate professionalism by performing the duties of a student physical therapist assistant in a manner consistent with the Guide for Conduct of the Physical Therapist Assistant (APTA), the Standards of Ethical Conduct (APTA), and the APTA's Values Based Behaviors for the Physical Therapist Assistant , to meet the expectations of patients, members of the physical therapy profession, and other providers.
- If confronted with an ethical situation, implement, with guidance from the supervising physical therapist and/or clinical instructor, a plan of action that is congruent with core professional ethics and values.
- Demonstrate the ability to apply current knowledge and theory, integrating evidence based resources as well as the patient/client perspective to support sound clinical decision-making and judgement to progress the patient within the plan of care established by the physical therapist.
- Effectively educate patients/clients, caregivers, and co-workers using teaching methods that respond to the needs of the individual or group.
- Participate in patient-centered interprofessional collaborative care through activities such as planning and organizational meetings, patient care conferences, observations of other health care disciplines, and co-treatments.
- Demonstrate entry level competence in implementation of the following data collection skills as assigned/available during the clinical experience: Range of motion (passive and active/functional) using appropriate measurement device, Muscle performance (manual muscle testing, muscle length, muscle tone), Anthropometrical measurements (height, weight, length, girth), Pain level using questionnaires or scales, and positions/activities that aggravate or alleviate pain, Joint integrity and mobility, Integumentary integrity (detect absent or altered sensation; normal and abnormal integumentary changes; activities, positioning, and postures that aggravate or relieve pain or altered sensations, or that can produce associated skin trauma; viable versus nonviable tissue; status while using assistive technology devices/equipment), Vital signs, Aerobic capacity and endurance (response to activity/exercise, positional changes), Posture, Mental functions (arousal, mentation, cognition), Self-care status (home safety and functional status including administration of standardized assessments), Patient/client's or caregiver's ability to safely and properly use assistive technology devices and equipment, Safety and status in gait, locomotion, balance, wheelchair management, Neuromotor development (gross and fine motor milestones, equilibrium reactions), Ventilation, respiration, and circulation (signs and symptoms of distress, thoracoabdominal movements, breathing patterns, cough and sputum characteristics).
- Demonstrate entry level competence in implementation of the following components of treatment interventions as assigned/available during the clinical experience within the plan of care established by the physical therapist: Passive range of motion, active range of motion, active assistive range of motion, Therapeutic exercise (i.e. stretching, strengthening, functional movements), Balance training, Gait training, Patient/client education, Use of assistive/adaptive devices, Use of orthotic/prosthetic devices, Transfers and bed mobility/positioning, Self-care training, Standard isolation precautions, Wound management (knowledge of precautions and application/removal of dressing or agent), Sterile technique and sterile field, Compression therapies, Hydrotherapy, Biofeedback, Superficial thermal agents, Deep thermal agents, Electrotherapeutic agents (e.g. TENS, IFC, NMES, etc.), Mechanical/manual traction, Light therapies (e.g. laser, shortwave diathermy, UV), Manual therapy techniques/soft tissue mobilization, Cryotherapies, Contrast bath, Breathing exercises, secretion mobilization, coughing techniques.
- Review medical documentation and interview patients/clients, caregivers, and family to obtain current information related to prior and current level of function and general health status in order to ensure safety and appropriateness of interventions within the plan of care under the direction of the supervising physical therapist.
- Complete accurate, timely, and thorough documentation of treatment interventions that meets the needs of the healthcare facility, legal, and reimbursement requirements, taking into consideration the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) to describe a patient's/client's impairments, activity and participation limitations.
- Communicate with the supervising physical therapist and/or Clinical Instructor an understanding of the plan of care developed by the physical therapist to achieve short and long term goals and intended outcomes.
- Demonstrate competency in reviewing health records (e.g., lab values, diagnostic tests, specialty reports, narrative, consults, and physical therapy documentation) prior to carrying out the PT plan of care.
- Monitor and adjust interventions in the plan of care in response to patient/client status and clinical indications and report any changes in patient/client status or progress to the supervising physical therapist.
- Recognize when an intervention should not be performed due to clinical indications or when the direction to perform the intervention is beyond that which is appropriate for the physical therapist assistant and intervention by the supervising physical therapist is necessary.
- Contribute to the discontinuation of episode of care planning as directed by the supervising physical therapist.
- Describe the reimbursement procedure at the clinic and participate in routine administrative procedures of the clinic, including accurate and timely submission of billing information, patient scheduling and coordination with other staff members, and participate in established quality improvement activities (e.g. productivity, length of stay, referral patterns, and reimbursement trends).
- Respond to patient/client and environmental emergencies that commonly occur in the clinical setting.
- Contribute to efforts to increase patient and healthcare provider safety in the clinical setting.
- Develop and present educational material for the purpose of patient, family, and caregiver as directed by the supervising physical therapist with occasional guidance from the clinical instructor.
- Demonstrate refinement of skills, techniques, treatment preparation, assessment and re-assessment and follow through acquired in previous PTA coursework including preparation and implementation for procedures/modalities appropriate for the clinical setting and the client and within the scope of practice of a student PTA.
- Achieve "Advanced Intermediate" competency on the Clinical Performance Instrument (CPI) for all items applicable to the clinical setting and dependent upon available opportunities in that setting.
This concentrated course integrates skills and techniques from previous clinical experiences and from the coursework presented throughout the PTA program. It focuses on presentation of comprehensive treatment plans utilizing all treatment skills and techniques learned during the previous semesters. The students will be expected to prepare and present a case study that will follow the patient through the continuum of care. Students will be required to relate sociological, physical, and psychological aspects of illness and injury to their projects. Preparation for the state's licensure exam is covered in this course, including the Practice Exam and Assessment Tool (PEAT) and/or Scorebuilders. Students will also develop a professional portfolio providing evidence of competency, self-assessment and career goals. (Summer Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Identify any content needing to be reinforced in the FVCC PTA program by reviewing the entire curriculum.
- Develop and implement a career advancement plan based on interests, opportunities and career aspirations.
- Demonstrate the ability to prepare and present a case study to peers that follows a patient through the continuum of care including the ability to integrate appropriate evidence based resources to support clinical decision-making for progression of the patient within the plan of care established by the physical therapist.
- Demonstrate the ability to interpret and analyze differing clinical-setting learning experiences with peers.
- Demonstrate the ability to identify and assess National Physical Therapist Assistant Examination (NPTAE) test subject matter through performance of the Practice Exam and Assessment Tool (PEAT) and Score builders prep course.
- Reflect on the academic and clinical education provided by the FVCC PTA program and prepare a professional portfolio which exhibits the following evidence:
- Career Development
- Evidence of Competence
- Reflection on Mission Statement and Program Goals
- Behavior consistent with APTA's Standards of Ethical Conduct for the Physical Therapist Assistant
- Performance in a manner consistent with APTA's Values Based Behaviors for the Physical Therapist Assistant.
- Participation in professional and community organizations that provide opportunities for volunteerism, advocacy and leadership.
- Identification of career development and lifelong learning opportunities, including the role of the physical therapist assistant in the clinical education of physical therapist assistant students
- Reflection on Admission Essay
- Other relevant information and evidence supporting development as an entry level PTA
This online course teaches the theory and application of specialized areas of physical therapist assistant practice. This course will explore the mechanism of action, adverse effects, and physical therapy implications of drugs used to treat conditions commonly encountered by the physical therapist assistant. In addition, this course will explore the essential information physical therapist assistants need to be able to accurately recognize patients' medical imaging studies in order to better understand the nature of their pathology or injury. Emphasis will be placed on radiography, CT Scan, and MRI images related to various conditions commonly seen in physical therapy. This course will also explore important issues related to reimbursement and the importance of research and evidence-based practice. (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Identify implications ofpharmacology on thephysical therapy client.
- Discuss health carereform and its potentialimpact in physical therapy.
- Review the Medicare and insurance requirements/guidelines on supervision and reimbursement in different types of health carefacilities.
- Formulate an enhanced working vocabulary of diagnostic and musculoskeletal imaging terminology to communicate with other medical professionals using the language of diagnostic imaging.
- Identify different types of diagnostic and musculoskeletal imaging commonly used in physical therapy.
- Understand the terminology and the research methods that underlie evidence based practice.
- Utilize physical therapy case studies, and apply knowledge and concepts in practice.
This is the third of three full-time clinical experiences during which the student develops proficiency in physical therapy procedures, understanding of clinical responsibilities and supervisory relationships with a minimum competence necessary to graduate as an entry-level physical therapist assistant and become an active participant of the health care team. This course will include a six-week clinical rotation at an approved site. (Summer Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Demonstrate communication skills (verbal, nonverbal, and written) with patients, families, peers and supervisors through the utilization of effective teaching skills, by responding appropriately to patients' feelings by demonstrating respect for the patients' differences, values, and preferences, by adapting appropriate verbal communication levels and giving effective commands to obtain desired responses and to achieve patient outcomes based on the plan of care in an accurate, timely and concise manner.
- Adhere to legal practice standards, including all federal, state, and institutional regulations related to patient/client care and fiscal management.
- With direction from the supervising physical therapist and/or clinical instructor, recognize and report to appropriate authorities suspected cases of abuse of vulnerable populations.
- Demonstrate professionalism by performing the duties of a student physical therapist assistant in a manner consistent with the Guide for Conduct of the Physical Therapist Assistant (APTA), the Standards of Ethical Conduct (APTA), and the APTA's Values Based Behaviors for the Physical Therapist Assistant , to meet the expectations of patients, members of the physical therapy profession, and other providers.
- If confronted with an ethical situation, implement, with guidance from the supervising physical therapist and/or clinical instructor, a plan of action that is congruent with core professional ethics and values.
- Demonstrate the ability to apply current knowledge and theory, integrating evidence based resources as well as the patient/client perspective to support sound clinical decision-making and judgement to progress the patient within the plan of care established by the physical therapist.
- Effectively educate patients/clients, caregivers, and co-workers using teaching methods that respond to the needs of the individual or group.
- Participate in patient-centered interprofessional collaborative care through activities such as planning and organizational meetings, patient care conferences, observations of other health care disciplines, and co-treatments.
- Demonstrate entry level competence in implementation of the following data collection skills as assigned/available during the clinical experience: Range of motion (passive and active/functional) using appropriate measurement device, Muscle performance (manual muscle testing, muscle length, muscle tone), Anthropometric measurements (height, weight, length, girth), Pain level and positions/activities that aggravate or alleviate pain , Joint integrity and mobility, Integumentary integrity, Vital signs, Aerobic capacity and endurance (response to activity/exercise, positional changes), Posture, Mental functions (arousal, mentation, cognition), Self-care status (home safety and functional status including administration of standardized assessments), Patient/client's or caregiver's ability to safely and properly use assistive technology devices, Safety and status in gait, locomotion, and balance, Neuromotor development (gross and fine motor milestones, equilibrium reactions), Ventilation, respiration, and circulation (signs and symptoms of distress, thoracoabdominal movements, breathing patterns, cough and sputum characteristics).
- Demonstrate entry level competence in implementation of the following components of treatment interventions as assigned/available during the clinical experience within the plan of care established by the physical therapist: Passive range of motion, active range of motion, active assistive range of motion, Therapeutic exercise (i.e. stretching, strengthening, functional movements), Balance training, Gait training, Patient/client education, Use of assistive/adaptive devices, Use of orthotic/prosthetic devices, Transfers and bed mobility/positioning, Self-care training, Standard isolation precautions, Wound management (knowledge of precautions and application/removal of dressing or agent), Sterile technique and sterile field, Compression therapies, Hydrotherapy, Biofeedback, Superficial thermal agents, Deep thermal agents, Electrotherapeutic agents (e.g. TENS, IFC, NMES, etc.), Mechanical/manual traction, Light therapies (e.g. laser, shortwave diathermy, UV), Manual therapy techniques/soft tissue mobilization,Cryotherapies, Contrast bath, Breathing exercises, secretion mobilization, coughing techniques.
- Review medical documentation and interview patients/clients, caregivers, and family to obtain current information related to prior and current level of function and general health status in order to ensure safety and appropriateness of interventions within the plan of care under the direction of the supervising physical therapist.
- Complete accurate, timely, and thorough documentation of treatment interventions that meets the needs of the healthcare facility, legal, and reimbursement requirements, taking into consideration the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) to describe a patient's/client's impairments, activity and participation limitations.
- Communicate with the supervising physical therapist and/or Clinical Instructor an understanding of the plan of care developed by the physical therapist to achieve short and long term goals and intended outcomes.
- Demonstrate competency in reviewing health records (e.g., lab values, diagnostic tests, specialty reports, narrative, consults, and physical therapy documentation) prior to carrying out the PT plan of care.
- Monitor and adjust interventions in the plan of care in response to patient/client status and clinical indications and report any changes in patient/client status or progress to the supervising physical therapist.
- Recognize when an intervention should not be performed due to clinical indications or when the direction to perform the intervention is beyond that which is appropriate for the physical therapist assistant.
- Contribute to the discontinuation of episode of care planning as directed by the supervising physical therapist.
- Participate in routine administrative procedures of the clinic, including accurate and timely submission of billing information, patient scheduling and coordination with other staff members, and participates in established quality improvement activities (e.g. productivity, length of stay, referral patterns, and reimbursement trends).
- Respond to patient/client and environmental emergencies that commonly occur in the clinical setting.
- Present an educational in-service that meets the needs and interests of the clinical facility, utilizing appropriate evidence-based resources to support conclusions and recommendations.
- Discuss with your clinical instructor the benefits of participation in professional organizations (such as the APTA) and community organizations that provide opportunities physical therapist assistants to engage in volunteerism, professional advocacy, and leadership.
- Identify career development and lifelong learning opportunities, including the role of the physical therapist assistant in the clinical education of physical therapist assistant students.
- Achieve "Entry Level" competency on the Clinical Performance Instrument (CPI) for all items applicable to the clinical setting and dependent upon available opportunities in that setting.
Allied Health: Radiologic Technology (AHXR)
This course is designed to introduce the student to the basic concepts of the radiologic profession. Topics covered include equipment operation/manipulation, introduction into the clinical environment, and information pertaining to patient care and applicable ethical and legal considerations. Department policies and procedures are also presented so the students will have optimum resources to be successful through their training. Presented in lecture format and supported by clinical orientation. (Fall Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Demonstrate competency in the operation of basic imaging equipment and computer systems.
- Assess patient conditions accurately.
- Respond appropriately in emergency situations.
- Apply accepted infection control and general safety practices.
- Practice effective communication skills.
- Express, interpret, or modify ideas to communicate effectively.
This course is an introduction to the basic physics of ionizing electromagnetic radiation with specific applications to diagnostic x-ray radiography. Topics include the principles, concepts, and practices of scientific measurement, the basic principles of atomic and molecular structure, matter, work, energy, power, electricity including electrostatics, electrodynamics, and electromagnetism, the production of ionizing electromagnetic radiation, its properties, its interaction with matter, and fundamentals of radiation dosimetry. (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Summarize the history and development of X-rays.
- Use radiologic units used in the field of diagnostic x-rays.
- Describe the safe limits of exposure and express those limits in common units.
- Explain the structure and function of the x-ray tube and how x-rays are produced.
- Explain the electrical systems used to power the x-ray tube.
- Discuss the meaning of x-ray quantity and quality.
- Describe x-ray interaction with matter.
- Calculate x-ray penetration depths.
- Describe the optics of creating x-ray images.
- List the requirements to expose electronically or on film.
This course is an introduction to the anatomy, positioning protocols, and techniques used for routine imaging of the chest, abdomen, extremities and spine. It also includes an overview of related pathology. (Fall Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Define radiographic positioning terms.
- Position and align equipment for accurate representation of anatomic structures.
- Evaluate images for proper demonstration of anatomy and pathology.
This course is designed to build on the knowledge and experience gained from AHXR 110. There is a continuation of the study of anatomy, positioning protocols, and techniques used to image bony anatomy. It also presents an introduction into fluoroscopic procedures and contrast media. (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Evaluate images for proper demonstration of anatomy and pathology.
- Determine appropriate uses of various contrast media.
- Perform routine venipuncture.
- Identify and respond appropriately to adverse reactions to iodinated contrast.
This course is an introduction to the operation of imaging equipment, with a focus on the design of an x-ray tube and x-ray production based on technical factors. It also covers image quality characteristics with film review and critique. (Fall Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Identify and explain all working parts of the x-ray tube.
- Illustrate and describe the process of ionizing radiation production.
- Determine appropriate scenarios for use of ancillary equipment.
- Analyze images using a systematic critique process.
This course is a continuation of AHXR 115in learning about imaging equipment operation. It focuses on the physics and function of tomographic, fluoroscopic and mobile x-ray units. Introduction to conventional versus digital imaging equipment is also presented. (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Operate tomography and fluoroscopy tubes with full comprehension of function.
- Adjust techniques to produce optimal radiographic images, minimize patient exposure, and preserve equipment.
- Process and alter digital images that are based on algorithms.
This first clinical course provides orientation to the imaging department, with concentration on department dynamics and workflow. Students have an opportunity to apply what they have learned in the classroom as they rotate through preassigned areas. Roles progress from observational to more hands-on as skills increase. (Fall Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Differentiate various procedures for specific applications.
- Apply effective communication skills.
- Demonstrate an increase in confidence in basic imaging procedures.
This second clinical course gives students the opportunity to apply and practice material learned in lecture courses. Experience includes assisting the radiologist during fluoroscopy procedures, supporting surgeons through imaging in the operation room, as well as refining techniques and positioning of all protocols covered inAHXR 110and AHXR 111. (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Set up and manipulate fluoroscopic equipment.
- Control C-arm and mobile x-ray equipment in trauma and surgery situations.
- Become independent in basic imaging protocols.
This course prepares students for observation and supervised participation in correlative modalities within the Imaging Department. Material includes circulatory and nervous system anatomy and physiology pertinent to the additional modalities, as well as the basic concepts of image production and evaluation in CT, MRI, ultrasound, nuclear medicine, mammography, interventional radiography and the cardiac lab. (Fall Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Explain image production theory for alternate modalities, and describe specific anatomy studied by each.
- Identify primary aspects of the circulatory and nervous systems.
- Apply anatomical and equipment knowledge to evaluate basic imagery from each correlative modality.
This course provides the student with an in-depth study of pathologic conditions pertaining to radiology in lecture format. Lessons include pathology related to each general bone grouping, a dedicated look at pediatric-specific pathology, and a review of specialized modalities best suited for analysis of each disease type. (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Describe and identify pathology related to radiographic imaging.
- Determine optimal imaging modality per pathologic indication.
- Use alternative manual techniques based on additive versus destructive disease.
This course provides a comprehensive background on the interaction of x-radiation with matter, including biological effects at the molecular, cellular and organ system levels. Students are taught radiation protection to ensure safe use of x-rays during diagnostic imaging procedures, along with radiation quantities and units, monitoring methods, and regulatory limits for exposure. (Fall Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Implement radiation safety standards and regulations.
- Identify and protect radiosensitive anatomy, and apply theories for limiting exposure.
- Describe patient and staff dose limits, as well as radiation monitoring/measuring equipment.
- Recognize regulatory and enforcement agencies.
- Determine effects of radiation exposure.
This course is a comprehensive review of all program material in preparation for the national registry exam for radiologic technology, including anatomy and positioning, patient care, principles and equipment physics, and radiation protection. Format consists of review assignments, computerized review material, and "mock" registry style exams followed with class evaluation and discussion. A majority of this course is also designated for self-study. (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Apply strategic test taking skills through recognition and manipulation of multiplestyles of test question formatting.
- Demonstrate organization of all program material.
- Illustrate preparedness for the American Registry of Radiologic Technologist's exam.
This course rotates students through various preassigned shifts and clinical sites. Experience is gained by performing exams under the supervision of staff technologists during early morning, midday, late evening, and weekend shifts. Sites are multiple and varied providing the students with diversity in patient conditions and types of exams. (Summer Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Take responsibility for all aspects of the radiographic procedures.
- Work independently and as part of the radiology team.
- Modify technical variables and routines based on changing conditions.
- Apply all theory, concepts, skills and safety practices applicable to radiology.
The fourth semester clinical is designed to complement AHXR 210, with rotation of students through the modalities studied in lecture. Initially students observe and receive instruction, then gradually begin to participate in the performance of exams under the direct supervision of staff technologists. When not assigned to these specialized modalities, students continue to perform exams in the diagnostic imaging area and other clinical rotations with limited supervision and increased independence. (Fall Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Experience alternate imaging modalities and techniques.
- Apply knowledge of anatomy and pathology to specialized imaging areas.
- Coordinate effective routines for patients with multiple exams.
This final clinical course provides students the opportunity to perform independently as a technologist with support available from a staff technologist or the clinical instructor at all times. Rotations continue to include the specialized modalities, with hands-on participation in preparation for possible specialization and future advanced training. (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Demonstrate a transition from student to responsible technologist.
- Explore areas of interest and possible training opportunities in other imaging modalities.
- Acquire experiences for resume building.
Allied Health: Surgical Technician (AHST)
This course provides an introduction to the field of surgical technology, emphasizing history, roles, education of the surgical technologist, work environment, career opportunities, attributes for success, legal and ethical concerns, hospital administration and organization, professional behaviors including utilizing the therapeutic-self, and engaging in effective interpersonal relations and interactions. Students will be introduced to the importance of obtaining certification and joining the national organization. (Fall Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Summarize the history of the surgical technology profession.
- Explain the education of a surgical technologist, certification, and the purpose/activities of the national organization.
- Identify members of the surgical team and their roles.
- Discuss Maslow's hierarchy of needs and its relationship to patient care.
- Describe therapeutic touch and communication.
- Understand the process of death and dying.
- Explain the legal responsibilities and ethical issues involved in surgery.
- Distinguish different types of health-care facilities, hospital policies, and ancillary departments.
- Discuss environmental controls in surgery and their importance.
- Describe purpose of flow patterns, design, and different areas of the operating room.
- Demonstrate body language and its meaning.
- Discuss significance of communication, listening, and teamwork skills.
- Define and understand sexual harassment.
- Explain surgical conscience and importance of aseptic technique Identify safe body mechanics when transporting, transferring, and positioning patients.
This course presents entry-level responsibilities, skills, and competencies of the surgical technologist for the scrub and circulator roles. This course includes lecture, as well as hands-on, role playing, videos, and problem-solving sessions. The lab is limited to small groups, so there will be time for one-on-one teaching and assessment with each student. Students are responsible for teaching and assisting fellow classmates learn techniques and skills. One of the first lessons learned is teamwork and being critiqued by your team, which is a basic concept of the operating room team. (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Analyze the role of the surgical technologist in caring for the surgical patient.
- Verify the preoperative routines that must be completed.
- Demonstrate the transportation of the surgical patient.
- Apply the principles of surgical positioning.
- Demonstrate techniques of opening and preparing supplies and instruments needed for any operative procedure with the maintenance of sterile technique at all times.
- Summarize the methods of preparation of the operative site for surgery.
- Demonstrate the application of thermoregulatory devices.
- Interpret the principles and demonstrate the taking and recording of vital signs.
- Interpret the principles of urinary catheterization and demonstrate the procedure.
- Analyze how the principles of operative site preparation and urinary catheterization are related both to patient care and to the principles of asepsis.
- Demonstrate the proper techniques for the surgical hand scrub, gowning, gloving, and assisting team members.
- Demonstrate the proper technique for preparing supplies and instruments on a sterile field.
- Demonstrate and explain in detail the procedure for counting instruments, sponges, needles, and other items on the sterile field.
- Demonstrate the initial steps for starting a procedure.
- Demonstrate intraoperative handling of sterile equipment and supplies.
- Summarize and demonstrate postoperative routines.
This course emphasizes procedures in general, obstetric/gynecologic, ENT, oral maxillofacial, orthopedic, laparoscopic and diagnostic procedures. (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Identify the basic anatomy and physiology pertaining to general, obstetric/gynecologic, ENT, oral maxillofacial, orthopedic, laparoscopic and diagnostic surgical procedures.
- Discuss numerous surgeries related to general, obstetric/gynecologic, ENT, oral maxillofacial, orthopedic, laparoscopic and diagnostic specialties.
- Identify and discuss instrumentation, supplies and equipment that is specific to general, obstetric/gynecologic, ENT, oral maxillofacial, orthopedic, laparoscopic and diagnostic specialties.
- Interpret medical terminology as it applies to each type of surgery.
This course emphasizes procedures in ophthalmic, plastic/reconstructive, genitourinary, cardiothoracic, andperipheral vascular neurosurgery. (Fall Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Identify the basic anatomy and physiology pertaining to ophthalmic, plastic/reconstructive, genitourinary, cardiothoracic, peripheral vascular and neurosurgery.
- Discuss numerous surgeries related to ophthalmic, plastic/reconstructive, genitourinary, cardiothoracic, peripheral vascular and neurosurgery specialties.
- Identify and discuss instrumentation, supplies and equipment that is specific to ophthalmic, plastic/reconstructive, genitourinary, cardiothoracic, peripheral vascular and neurosurgery specialties.
- Interpret medical terminology as it applies to each type of surgery.
This course provides discussion of topics of special interest to surgical technologists, including resume writing, simulated job interview, case scenarios, and review for the National Certification Exam. Students are also required to complete the Program Assessment Exam conducted by the Association of Surgical Technologists. (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Create a professional resume.
- Participate in a mock job interview.
- Synthesize all knowledge and skills learned throughout the program's coursework and clinicals in preparation for the certification exam.
- Apply knowledge to management and organization of the operating room through case scenario discussions.
A continuation of AHST 116, this course presents a study of basic patient care and advocacy in the peri-operative setting as performed by the surgical technologist, emphasizing medical terminology, pharmacological and anesthesia applications, environmental and workplace safety, basic math, weights and measurements, robotics, electricity, and physics, syringes/hypodermic needles, and sterilization methods. In addition, students will present a PowerPoint presentation on a surgical procedure. (Fall Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Identify and understand medical abbreviations and medical terms.
- Understand the concerns for pre-operative medications, types of anesthetics, and various agents used in anesthesiology.
- Distinguish among the types of common drugs used in surgery and the care and handling of medications; Discuss ways of developing good safety attitude and personal safety guidelines.
- Describe OSHA and its role in the workplace.
- Apply knowledge to solve basic math problems, metric equivalents for weight, capacity, and metric abbreviations.
- Distinguish between types of syringes and their uses, and demonstrate ability to draw up and receive medication onto the sterile field.
- Define electricity and identify components of an electrosurgical system.
- Use physics in performing tasks as a surgical technologist.
- Identify the basic components and mechanisms of surgical robotic systems and the purpose of each, apply the laws of motion to robotic movements, and to describe the uses of robotics for safe patient care.
- Discuss and demonstrate sterilization and disinfection methods and operating room sanitation.
This first clinical course provides prearranged scheduled experiences in the operating room for the student surgical technologist. Experiences will begin observational, progressing to hands-on as skills develop. (Fall Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Document required paperwork.
- Demonstrate basic hands-on surgical techniques when appropriately assessed by a preceptor.
- Demonstrate sterile technique.
- Apply knowledge of anatomy and physiology towards surgical procedures.
- Demonstrate appropriate behavior in the surgical setting.
Students will be scrubbing in a hospital operating room. This clinical will prepare students to perform in the role of first scrub. Students will assist in a variety of surgeries and related duties. Students will apply their knowledge of surgical techniques, procedures, equipment, instruments, and supplies along with increasingly developing their skills to more complex procedures. This class will also have rotations in Central Processing, Same Day Surgery, and Endoscopy. (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Document required paperwork.
- Demonstrate sterile technique.
- Apply knowledge of anatomy and physiology towards surgical procedures.
- Demonstrate appropriate behavior in the surgical setting.
- Function in the role of a first scrub independently in most surgical cases.
- Collaborate with others in complicated, dynamic, and/or ambiguous situations.
Biology: Human (BIOH)
This course familiarizes students with the fundamental concepts in the systematic organization and functioning of the human body. Anatomical features and physiological processes of each system are studied as they contribute to the overall homeostasis of the body. Laboratory studies include anatomy (bones, muscles, brains, vessels, and heart) and physiology (membrane transport, blood, blood pressure, respiration, reflexes and the senses). (Fall and Spring Semesters)
Course Outcomes
- Explain fundamental concepts in the systematic organization of the human body.
- Identify components which comprise each system covered in the course.
- Describe normal functions of each organ system covered in the course, including how molecular and biochemical events within structures function in the maintenance of a homeostatic condition in the human body.
- Describe the structure of the human body including the skeleton, muscles, and some internal organs.
- Apply scientific concepts and methods of inquiry.
Pathophysiology (the study of disease) is a close examination of the disease process in the human body. The course will build on the topics explored in the prerequsite courses (BIOH 104, BIOH 201, BIOH 211). Body systems will be covered in greater depth, and the focus will be on the interrelationships between systems. Topics in this course include how the body's normal structure and function can be altered, how the body responds to these disruptions in structure and function (i.e. cause and effect), and current approaches to the treatment of these disruptions. (Fall Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Explain the human body systems structure and functions. Describe the interrelationship of the body systems particularly in the role of maintaining homeostasis in the body. Examine the impact of disease processes, surgical intervention, pharmaceuticals, trauma and aging on body systems. Demonstrate an understanding of the etiology, signs and symptoms, diagnosis, pathophysiolology, treatment and prognosis of the diseases covered.
This course is an introduction to anatomical methodology and physiological mechanisms. Students become familiar with the systematic organization of the human body at both the micro- and macro-structural levels, the normal functions of each organ in a particular system, and the interrelationships between structure and function. Specifically covered in this semester are an introduction to histology and the integumentary, skeletal, nervous, muscular, and endocrine systems. Laboratory included. (Fall and Spring Semesters)
Course Outcomes
- Define homeostasis and explain its significance, differentiating between negative and positive feedback mechanisms.
- Explain the basic chemical composition of matter, chemical bonding and reactions, and differentiate between inorganic and organic molecules.
- Describe and compare the structures and functions of a cell, and methods of cellular transport.
- Describe the four primary tissue types, recognize and name examples of each tissue type.
- Name the tissue types and layers of the skin, compare and contrast structures of the integumentary system and its appendages.
- Explain the classification, functions, development, and structure of bones.
- Identify selected bones and structures of the axial and appendicular skeleton, classify joints structurally and functionally.
- Compare and contrast three basic types of muscle tissue, describe the micro and macro structure of muscle, and the mechanisms of muscle contraction.
- Identify selected muscles of the body, and name the action, origin, and insertion of these muscles.
- Explain the functional and structural divisions of the nervous system, the structure and function ofnervous tissue, and the basic concepts of neurophysiology.
- Describe structure and function of the brain and spinal cord, components and actions of the peripheral nervous system, and autonomic nervous system.
- Identify selected nerves, name the muscles that are innervated by each nerve.
- Explain the basic concepts of neural integration.
- Identify the endocrine organs, list the basic functions of the major endocrine organs, and describe homeostatic imbalances of these organs.
- Compare and contrast the mechanisms of water-soluble vs. lipid-soluble hormones.
- Describe the structure and function of organs of the special senses representing taste, smell, vision, hearing, and balance, recognizing homeostatic imbalances of the senses.
In this continuation of BIOH 201, students are presented with a systematic exposure to the structural and functional workings of the cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, excretory, and reproductive systems. Laboratory included. (Fall and Spring Semesters)
Course Outcomes
- Describe the composition, functions and characteristics of whole blood, type blood, measure hematocrit and hemoglobin levels, and measure blood cell count.
- Explain the structure and function of the heart, the conduction system, the cardiac cycle, and homeostatic imbalances of the cardiovascular system.
- Explain the structure and function of blood vessels, and the physiology of circulation.
- Describe the distribution and function of the lymphatic vessels.
- Explain the composition of lymphoid tissues, and Name the major lymphoid organs.
- Identify the innate and adaptive defenses of the body.
- Compare and contrast the humoral and cell-mediated immune responses.
- Describe the functional anatomy of the respiratory system.
- Explain the mechanics of breathing and the transport of gases in the blood.
- Describe the anatomy and basic function of the structures of the digestive system, the physiology of chemical digestion and absorption.
- Describe the structure and function of the kidney and its related structures, explain the mechanism of urine formation.
- Describe the function of and relate the importance of water, electrolyte and acid-base balances in the body.
- Explain the functions of the anatomy and physiology of both the male and female reproductive systems.
- Recognize and explain homeostatic imbalances of the human body.
This course consists of undergraduate research under the supervision of a full-time faculty member. This course may be repeated for a total of ten credits. Students receiving financial aid or veteran's benefits should check with the Financial Aid Office before repeating this course. (Intermittently)
Course Outcomes
- Utilize the principles of scientific investigation.
- Demonstrate appropriate use of sources of information in electronic and print formats.
- Develop an appropriate research question and/or hypothesis.
- Conduct a literature review or laboratory/field/theoretical study on a topic in ...
- Communicate an understanding of the topic investigated in written and/or oral form.
Emergency Care Provider (ECP)
Procedures and techniques of immediate emergency care for injury or sudden illness are covered. This includes first aid for minor injuries, rescue breathing, CPR, and other life-saving techniques. CPR certification is available. (Fall and Spring Semesters)
Course Outcomes
- Demonstrate a basic understanding of first aid and CPR.
- Cope with an emergency or sudden illness.
- Carefor an injured or ill person.
This course covers basic emergency medical and trauma scenarios typically encountered in remote, austere or wilderness environments. This includes common medical emergencies such as diabetes, seizures, asthma, anaphylaxis and cardiac arrest and trauma emergencies such as soft tissue wounds, head and spine injuries, musculoskeletal injuries and shock. The course consists of in-depth discussions and hands-on training with splinting, bleeding control, wound management and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR). Also discussed are legalities within wilderness medicine and how emergencies can be addressed in a wilderness environment. This includes topics such as evacuation, litter construction, backcountry communications, and decision-making. Successful course completion results in the award of Wilderness First Aid certification that is valid for 2 years. Certification can be renewed through any wilderness medicine training organization that offers Wilderness First Aid training. (All Semesters)
Course Outcomes
- Demonstrate Wilderness First Aid skills in accordance with the minimum guidelines and scope of practice for Wilderness First Aid.
- Apply knowledge, skills, and abilities to provide cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) while in the wilderness.
- Discuss the prevention, recognition, and treatment of injuries and illnesses which may occur in the wilderness.
- Describe evacuation decision making processes and techniques.
Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) is considered the desired level of medical training by many first responder agencies. The course focuses on skill development in the primary responsibilities of the EMR: providing emergency medical care to victims of emergencies and stabilizingtheir condition prior to transport to an appropriate facility. This course is a combination of classroom work and skills lab. Upon successful completion of the course, students are eligible to sit for the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) certification examinations. All aspects of authorization/certification are the responsibility of the student. (Intermittently)
Course Outcomes
- Understand, describe and demonstrate the skills required of a first responder as required by the National Registry of EMTs (NREMT).
- Carry out basic life support at the emergency medical responder level.
- Treat bleeding, shock, musculoskeletal and soft tissue injuries to the level required of emergency medical responders.
- Understand the relationship between the various components within the emergency medical services operation.
- Modify emergency medical responder skills to improvise and adapt to special situations.
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) is considered the desired level of medical training by many Emergency Medical Transport agencies. The course focuses on skill development in the primary responsibilities of the EMT, which are to bring emergency medical care to victims of emergencies, to stabilize their condition, and to transport them safely and expeditiously to an appropriate facility. The course is a combination of classroom work, skills lab, and practical experience. Upon successful completion of the course, graduates are eligible to sit for the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) certification examinations. All aspects of authorization/certification are the responsibility of the student. (Fall and Spring Semesters, Summer Semester as needed)
Course Outcomes
- Discuss EMS systems, safety/well-being of the EMT and medical, legal and ethical issues related to the provision of emergency care.
- Relate knowledge of the anatomy and function of all human systems to the practice of EMS.
- Explain the pathophysiology of respiration and perfusion to patient assessment and management.
- Discuss life-span development in relations to patient assessment and management.
- Explain the principles of illness and injury prevention in emergency care.
- Summarize relevant information regarding the medications that an EMT may assist/administer to a patient during an emergency.
- Discuss the necessary relation of anatomy and physiology to patient assessment and management in order to assure a patent airway, adequate mechanical ventilation, and respiration for patients of all ages.
- Apply scene information and patient assessment findings to guide emergency management of a pre-hospital patient.
- Provide basic emergency care and transportation based on assessment findings for an acutely ill patient.
- Identify the causes, pathophysiology and management of shock, respiratory failure or arrest, cardiac failure or arrest, and post-resuscitation management.
- Provide basic emergency care and transportation based on assessment finding for an acutely injured patient.
- Explain the growth, development, aging and assessment findings to provide basic emergency care and transportation for a patient with special needs.
- Understand the operational roles and responsibilities of the EMT to ensure patient, public and personnel safety.
This course provides an opportunity for the EMT to start learning the cognitive, psychomotor, and behavioral differences between an EMT and paramedic. Topics covered include roles and responsibilities of the paramedic, EMS systems, licensure/recertification requirements, medical/legal issues, communications and documentation, anatomy and physiology review, pharmacology and emergency medications, and current issues that impact the emergency medical services profession. (Fall Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Discuss EMS systems, safety and well-being of the paramedic and medical, legal and ethical issues in order to improve the health of EMS personnel, patients and the community.
- Relate knowledge of the anatomy and function of all human systems to the practice of EMS.
- Explain the components of an EMS communication system, and the process for proper documentation in pre-hospital care.
- Demonstrate the proper technique in communicating with patients who are ill or injured.
- Explain EMS pharmacology in order to formulate a treatment plan for pre-hospital patients.
This course prepares the paramedic student in the basic knowledge and skills needed in the pre-hospital environment.Topics covered include initial patient assessment and management, airway management and ventilation, pathophysiology of shock, emergency pharmacology, and respiratory emergencies. (Fall Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Explain pathophysiology as it relates to homeostasis and shock.
- Demonstrate comprehensive initial patient assessment.
- Explain how to develop a field impression and list of differential diagnoses throughout the assessment process.
- Demonstrate appropriate airway management techniques including basic adjuncts, positioning, suctioning, and advanced airway management.
- Discuss assessment findings with principals of epidemiology and pathophysiology to formulate a field impression and implement a comprehensive treatment plan for a patient experiencing a respiratory emergency.
This course prepares the paramedic student in the psychomotor and manipulative skills necessary to effectively manage the tasks inECP 201. (Fall Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Perform comprehensive patient assessment.
- Developta field impression and list of differential diagnoses throughout the assessment process.
- Perform appropriate airway management techniques including basic adjuncts, positioning, suctioning, and advanced airway management.
- Establish peripheral access in an ill or injured patient.
- Successfully administer medications through all routes for medication administration.
This course provides an in-depth study in the pathophysiology and management of cardiovascular disease and related emergencies. Students will also study obstetrical, neonatal, and pediatric emergencies. (Fall Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Explain the relationship between assessment findings with principles of epidemiology and pathophysiology to formulate a field impression and implement a comprehensive treatment plan for a patient with a cardiovascular complaint.
- Discuss the relationship between assessment findings and the principles of pathophysiology as well as psychosocial needs to formulate a field impression and implement a comprehensive treatment plan for a patient who is pregnant and is experiencing a medical or trauma emergency.
- Discuss the relationship between assessment findings and the principles of pathophysiology as well as psychosocial needs to formulate a field impression and implement a comprehensive treatment plan for a neonate.
- Discuss the relationship between assessment findings and the principles of pathophysiology as well as psychosocial needs to formulate a field impression and implement a comprehensive treatment plan for a pediatric patient.
This course teaches the psychomotor skills required to manage cardiovascular disease and related emergencies. Students will also develop the psychomotor skills required to manage obstetrical , neonatal, and pediatric emergencies. (Fall Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Treat and managea patient experiencing a cardiovascular emergency.
- Treat and manage a patient experiencing an obstetric emergency, including management of the neonate.
- Treat and managementa patient experiencing a pediatric emergency.
This course provides an opportunity to study and manage trauma and medical emergencies from a case study perspective.Trauma topics include shock; head, spinal, thoracic, and abdominal trauma; burns; and environmental emergencies. Medical topics include respiratory, cardiac, and neurologic emergencies; endocrinology, hematology, infectious diseases, and anaphylaxis. (Summer Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Discuss using a competent knowledge base of the elements of various specific case studies demonstrating background knowledge of the pathology of the disease being discussed, the likely future manifestations of the disease, and the appropriate pre-hospital treatment required for the patient.
- Discuss with a respectful and professional attitude.
- Demonstrate how disruptions in one system or area of the body affect the homeostatic functioning of other systems.
- Explain clearly the compensations the body initiates in an attempt to restore the body to within normal homeostatic ranges.
This course provides the opportunity to apply, in a clinical setting, the didactic knowledge and skills developed in the classroom and lab. This course serves as the first stage in assisting the student to become an employable EMS provider. Clinical skills addressed include patient assessment and evaluation, vital signs management, development of airway management skills, development of communication skills, introduction to various skills necessary for patient care and the development of safety practices. (Fall Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Demonstrate successful airway management skills in the clinical setting.
- Demonstrate the affective objectives for the paramedic profession.
- Demonstrate successful venous access in the clinical setting, including alternate routes.
- Demonstrate successful medication administration in the clinical setting.
- Demonstrate successful patient assessment in the clinical setting.
This course provides an intensive look at the pathophysiology and management of trauma, to include assessment of the trauma patient;management of head, chest, abdominal, spinal, and orthopedic injuries; management of the multi-trauma patient; management of special airway problems; management of environmental emergencies; and current trends in trauma management. (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Explain the relationship between assessment findings with principles of epidemiology and pathophysiology to formulate a field impression and implement a comprehensive treatment plan for a patient with a trauma emergency, specifically abdominal and genitourinary trauma, head and face trauma, spinal trauma, bleeding and shock, soft-tissue injuries, chest trauma, multi-system trauma, and environmental emergencies.
This course allows the student to develop the necessary psychomotor skills to successfully manage a trauma patient, to include assessment of the trauma patient; management of head, chest, abdominal, spinal, and orthopedic injuries; management of the multi-trauma patient; management of special airway problems; management of environmental emergencies; and current trends in trauma management. (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Assessment and manage a trauma patient.
- Formulate of a field impression.
- Implementa comprehensive treatment plan for a trauma patient, specifically abdominal and genitourinary, head and face, andspinal traumas; bleeding and shock; soft-tissue injuries; chest and multi-system traumas; and environmental emergencies.
This course provides an intensive look at the pathophysiology and management of medical emergencies, to include the nervous and endocrine systems, the acute abdomen, anaphylaxis, toxicology and substance abuse, behavioral and geriatric emergencies, infectious diseases, and hematology. (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Explain the relationship between assessment findings with principles of epidemiology and pathophysiology to formulate a field impression and implement a comprehensive treatment plan for a patient with a medical emergency, specifically: Abdominal and gastrointestinal disorders, Neurologic disorders, Immunologic disorders, Infectious Diseases, Endocrine disorders, Psychiatric disorders, Toxicology and substance abuse, Genitourinary, and Renal disorders, Gynecologic disorders, Non-traumatic musculoskeletal disorders, Diseases of the eyes, ears, nose and throat, Patients who are technologically assisted or have special needs.
- Discuss the pathophysiology related to the management of shock and respiratory failure or arrest with an emphasis on early intervention to prevent arrest.
- Discuss the pathophysiology related to the management of cardiac arrest and pre-arrest states.
This course provides an in-depth look at EMS transport operations; incident management and multiple casualty incidents; vehicle extrication and special rescue; hazardous materials, terrorism, disaster response; and crime scene awareness. Students will also complete studies in National Incident Management Systems (NIMS) and Incident Command Systems (ICS). (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Discuss operational roles and responsibilities to ensure safe patient, public and personnel safety, specifically in the areas of Transport operations, Incident management, Disaster response, Crime scene management, Terrorism, Vehicle extrication, Special rescue techniques, Multiple-casualty incidents, Air-medical operations, and Hazardous Materials Awareness.
This course provides instruction in the psychomotor components related to medical emergencies, such as EMS transport operations, incident management and multiple casualty incidents, vehicle extrication and special rescue, hazardous materials, terrorism, disaster response, and crime scene awareness. Students will also complete studies in National Incident Management Systems (NIMS) and Incident Command Systems (ICS). (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Performoperational roles and responsibilities to ensure safe patient, public and personnel safety, specifically in the areas of Transport operations, Incident management, Disaster response, Crime scene management, Terrorism,Vehicle extrication, Special rescue techniques, Multiple-casualty incidents, Air-medical operations and Hazardous Materials Awareness.
- Assess and managepatients experiencing a medical emergency, including the formation of a field impression, differential diagnoses, and the implementation of a comprehensive treatment plan.
This course is a continuation of the clinical skills started in ECP 216. It provides students the opportunity to apply, in a clinical setting, the didactic knowledge and skills developed in the classroom and lab. This course serves as the final stage in assisting the student to become an employable EMS provider. Clinical skills addressed include electrocardiology, care of the critical patient, assessment and management of acute and chronic disease, pediatric care, obstetrical and neonatal care, and behavioral intervention techniques. (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Utilize airway management skills in the clinical setting.
- Demonstrate the effective objectives for the paramedic profession.
- Perform venous access in the clinical setting, including alternate routes.
- Administer medication in the clinical setting.
- Assess patients in the clinical setting.
- Care for patients in a critical care setting.
- Manage patient suffering from a behavioral crisis.
This course prepares the paramedic student for the national registry paramedic exam. It is a review of the cognitive and affective behaviors taught throughout the fall and spring semesters of the paramedic program. (Summer Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Demonstrate the cognitive and affective objectives contained in the National EMS Education Standards for Paramedic Programs.
This course prepares the paramedic student for the national registry paramedic psychomotor exam. It is a review of the psychomotor skills taught throughout the fall and spring semesters of the paramedic program. (Summer Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Demonstrate the psychomotor skills contained in the National Registry of EMTs Paramedic Practical Examination.
This course provides the opportunity to apply, in the field, the didactic knowledge and skills developed in the classroom and lab. This course serves as the final field experience in assisting the student to become an employable EMS provider. Cognitive, psychomotor, and affective evaluation skills addressed include patient assessment, history gathering, treatment prioritizing, diagnostic impression, protocol knowledge, radio communication, written documentation, airway management, fluid/drug management, cardiac management, trauma and medical emergencies management, attitude, professionalism, assertiveness, and team leader qualities. (Summer Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Demonstrate the ability to function in the team leader role in various types of emergencies.
- Perform patient assessments appropriately.
- Perform advanced airway management.
- Perform successful intravenous therapy and medication administration techniques.
- Utilize critical thinking skills in patient assessment and treatment interventions in a wide variety of emergency settings.
- Interact as a professional member of a health care team.
- Apply skills necessary for stabilization of patients in emergency situations.
Health (HTH)
This course is intended to offer students an opportunity to explore the world of health care. Through research, discussion groups, and observations, students will explore various career paths in health care. Students will identify the educational requirements for various health care careers. Some of the topics to be discussed are characteristics of health care personnel, certifications and licensing, health care systems, health care philosophy, law and ethics pertaining to health care, client advocacy, current issues and trends in health care and economic issues in health care. (Fall and Spring Semesters)
Course Outcomes
- Explore educational requirements for a variety of health career options.
- Identify area of health care that could be a choice for individual career path.
- Summarize the expected ethical and legal behavior of a healthcare provider.
- Develop a portfolio that documents career research and goals and plans for future education.
This course is the study of health principles enabling the student to make the essential choices for a more healthful lifestyle. (Fall Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Describe the current state of health and wellness in the United States.
- Identify and describe the dimensions of health and wellness.
- Discuss health and wellness issues pertinent to college-age students.
- Identify factors that influence health behaviors and strategies that can be utilized to modify those behaviors.
- Identify health enhancing resources and services.
- Apply introductory health behavior models.
- Apply quality information which can be used to support health and wellness.
- Identify negative health behaviors and describe the possible consequences of those behaviors.
Health Enhancement (HEE)
This course is designed for elementary education students. It focuses on applying educational theory in planning, analyzing and presenting learning experiences to typical and atypical populations in elementary school physical education. Active participation is required. (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Develop lesson plans that include a variety of movement forms in the psychomotor domain, including fundamental manipulative, locomotors, non-locomotor, motor skills and exercises, lead up games, team sports and games, mass games and activities, rhythms and dance.
- Use a variety of instructional strategies to encourage students' development in performance skills, problem solving and critical thinking.
- Develop plans for instruction based on knowledge of physical education, students, and curricular goals.
- Deliver and evaluate standards-based learning activities in the area of health-related physical fitness that are developmental and sequential.
- Organize, plan, administer, and evaluate the total health enhancement curriculum.
- Communicate effectively and advocate for the importance of the health enhancement curriculum.
- Identify common physical and mental disabilities and prescribe adapted programs specific to individual disabilities.
This is a survey class dealing with all the introductory aspects of physical education, philosophies, history, objectives, career opportunities, adapted programs, sociology, psychology, physiology of sport. (Fall Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Understand the realm of the profession.
- Follow the history and development of physical education.
- Apply the philosophies of education.
- Place the various areas of research in proper perspectives involving biomechanics, motor learning, physiology of exercise, and the sociology of sport.
- Know the applications of the profession: teaching administration, adapted programs, coaching, and also traditional and alternative career opportunities.
This course focuses on the major health issues affecting school-age children in the United States and the policies and programs aimed at improving the health of this population. Topics include the role of state and local boards in authorizing school health promotion, school health curriculum design, health lesson plans, and teaching methods appropriate for health concepts. (Fall Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Identify and describe the basic elements of a coordinated school health education program.
- Identify current health issues affecting school age children.
- Describe the teachers' role in addressing the mental, emotional and social health issues most commonly experienced by children and adolescents.
- Explain the role of state education departments and local boards of education in the authorization of school health promotion.
- Identify growth and development characteristics of children and adolescents that can be of major importance in the educational process and in the planning of school health programs.
- Select appropriate learning resources.
- Establish instructional environments to accommodate a variety of learning styles.
- Demonstrate a variety of teaching styles and methods appropriate to teaching health concepts that are age appropriate.
Kinesiology (KIN)
A dynamic course designed to familiarize students with the concepts of aerobic exercise and resistance training related to the areas of health, fitness, and performance. This course involves a combination of learning techniques, including lecture and hands-on activities. (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Understand the fundamental training principles used to develop healthy exercise programs for all stages of life.
- Demonstrate their understanding of exercise physiology as it is applied to fitness and competition.
- Relate the underlying aspects of exercise physiology to aerobic and resistance training.
- Design personal fitness programs, both for themselves and for specific age groups, using the fundamental theories of training.
- Evaluate and monitor health related fitness programs.
In this course, students will develop a knowledge base of the variety of real world movements that the human body can generate, as well as exercises that can be utilized to improve the functionality of the human machine executing these movements. This course involves a combination of learning techniques including lecture and hands-on activities. This course may be repeated for a total of four credits. Students receiving financial aid or veterans benefits should check with the Financial Aid Office before repeating this course. (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Evaluate the functionality of the human body at the musculoskeletal level.
- Apply functional exercises and training techniques for clients at any level of functionality.
- Analyze data and derive an appropriate exercise program.
This course is designed to introduce students to the basic fitness assessment techniques and to provide an opportunity to develop assessment skills through hands-on laboratory experience. Discussions focus on background theory and rationale for each technique, assessment methodology and appropriate utilization of the generated information. (Spring Semester)
Course Outcomes
- Describe a variety of health and fitness assessment techniques associated with the following five areas: Health risk factors, Cardiovascular physiology, Musculoskeletal, Mobility/flexibility, Body composition, Analyze the data and derive an appropriate exercise program.
Nutrition (NUTR)
Students learn how to prepare meals that are nutrient dense and easy to prepare. Topics include principles of nutritional meal planning, digestion, colon health, food allergies, seasonal eating, fermentation of food, eating to maintain energy, therapeutic properties of foods, and healthy holiday foods.This course may be repeated for a total of two credits. Students receiving financial aid or veterans benefits should check with the Financial Aid Office before repeating this course. (Fall and Spring Semesters)
Course Outcomes
- Understand the function and nutrient value of ingredients in recipes.
- Evaluate recipes for nutritional content and choose healthy recipes.
- Plan a menu that incorporates fiber, phytonutrients, and healthy fats.
- Describe the health benefits of several foods.
This course relates nutritional needs during different stages of the life cycle. Basic concepts of human nutrition including carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, vitamins, minerals, absorption, digestions, metabolism, and energy utilization and how they relate to health and food consumption are covered. (All Semesters)
Course Outcomes
- Describe the functions of micro- and macronutrients and relate them to human nutrition.
- Relate foods to specific categories and to specific nutritional needs in humans.
- Be aware that food availability and price impact the quality of diet for individuals and families.
- Recognize that additives, irradiation, and food safety may affect nutritional content.
- Be familiar with such tools as Recommended Dietary Allowance, USDA Food Guide, food comparison tables, and computer nutrient analysis programs, and understand their limitations.
- Understand how nutritional needs are influenced by normal physiologic states throughout the lifespan. Recognize that psychological, cultural, and social factors that may influence the behavioral selection by the family.
- Apply scientific concepts and methods of inquiry.