Physical Therapist Assistant

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

• Teaching appropriate exercises for improving strength, flexibility, coordination, agility, and performance
• Instructing and progressing mobility skills, such as bed mobility, sitting, standing, walking, and higher level mobility skills depending on the condition and plan
• Using ultrasound, electrical stimulation, heat, and other tools to help reduce pain, improve strength, and assist tissue healing
• Using rehabilitation equipment and aids to optimize patient safety and function
• Performing selected tests and measures that inform clinical decision making when implementing the physical therapy plan of care
• Collecting and reporting relevant data, such as aerobic capacity, pain, cognition, joint motion, muscle performance, neuromuscular development and performance, posture, self-care, circulation, respiration, ventilation, and home/community management
• Communicating effectively with a variety of healthcare providers, such as nurses, doctors, and other rehabilitation professionals
• Advocating for patients, the public, and health care through engagement with the American Physical Therapy Association, Oregon Physical Therapy Association, and providing at least 10 hours of community service for a non-profit organization.
• Practicing responsibly in accordance with the American Physical Therapy Association Standards of Ethical Practice for the Physical Therapist Assistant