Prerequisites

Prerequisites

The Physical Therapist Assistant program is a selective admission, limited enrollment program.  Admission to Gulf Coast State College does not imply acceptance into the Physical Therapist Assistant program.  Before beginning this program of study please review the Physical Therapist Assistant Program Information Packet, which contains a current listing of admission and course requirements.

PLEASE NOTE:  General education courses may be taken during the PTA Program; however, applicants are strongly encouraged to begin work on the general education courses prior to entry into the program.

Completion of Anatomy & Physiology I (BSC 2085 & BSC 2085L) prior to starting the PTA program is suggested but not required.  Extra points will be awarded for earning a "C" or better in Anatomy & Physiology I & II.  Extra points will also be awarded for  earning a “B” or better in Medical Terminology if completed prior to the application deadline.

Observation/Work Hours:  Observation hours of a licensed PT or PTA are optional but highly encouraged.  There is a form in the application for documentation of the hours, which will count toward extra points on the admission rubric provided a minimum of 40 hours are obtained.

Once accepted into the program the following is required:

• Satisfactory Criminal Background Check
• Satisfactory Drug Screening
• Documentation of Immunizations
• Physical Examination with clearance to perform technical standards listed below:

Physical Therapist Assistant Program Technical Standards

A physical therapist assistant is a health care professional whose primary responsibility is to work under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist and perform duties in a clinical setting. In addition to the duties of the profession, the physical therapist assistant must always be aware of the patient's condition and needs and be able to interact appropriately. 

TECHNICAL STANDARD	DEFINITION	EXAMPLES OF NECESSARY ACTIVITIES (Not All Inclusive)
Cognitive Qualifications	Sufficient Reading, Language and Math Skills; Ability to collect and  integrate information to make a decision for patient care	Able to comprehend and interpret written material Follow and deliver written and oral direction Able to comprehend & apply  new knowledge within  scope of work
Critical Thinking	Critical thinking ability sufficient for clinical judgment; synthesize information from written material and apply knowledge to clinical situations	Identify cause-effect relationships in clinical situations Read and comprehend relevant information in textbooks, medical records and professional literature Make rapid decisions under pressure Handle multiple priorities in stressful situations Assist with problem solving
Interpersonal	Interpersonal abilities sufficient to interact with individuals, families, and groups from a variety of social, educational, cultural, and intellectual backgrounds	Establish rapport with individuals. Cope effectively with stress Can exchange ideas in a group (work effectively as part of a team) Cope with confrontation Demonstrate a high degree of patience Graciously admit mistakes and accept constructive  criticism
Communication	Communication abilities sufficient for interaction with others in verbal and non-verbal form (speech, reading, and writing)	Explain treatment procedures Give effective instructions to patients and families Demonstrate active listening skills. Recognize, interpret and respond to non-verbal behavior of self and others Keep accurate, ethical logs and records of treatment and  charges with correct spelling and grammar
Mobility	Physical abilities sufficient to move from room to room, to maneuver in small spaces and to perform procedures necessary for emergency intervention	Maintain positions including sitting, standing, squatting, kneeling, reaching (above shoulder level), walking, stair  climbing, and movement of trunk and neck in all directions for an extended amount of time. (up to 4  hours) Able to push, pull, and/or lift a minimum of 50-70 lbs., and push/ pull, or move such weight a minimum of 50 feet. Safely and effectively transfer a 200-300lb patient with assistance Able to lift up to 10 lbs. above head Able to endure and successfully complete a 40 hour work week during clinical education courses
Motor Skills	Gross and fine motor abilities sufficient to provide safe and effective patient care	Handle and use equipment Position patients Perform repetitive tasks Able to grip
Hearing	Normal, corrected or aided - Auditory ability sufficient to interpret verbal communication from patients and health care team members	Hear monitor alarms, emergency signals,  and cries for  help Hear telephone interactions
Visual	Normal or corrected  -  Visual acuity sufficient for observation and assessment necessary for patient assessment	Observe patient responses Identify and distinguish colors
Tactile	Tactile ability sufficient for gross and fine motor coordination necessary for manual assessment of tissues	Perform palpation, functions of physical examination  and/or those related to therapeutic intervention Tactile abilities needed to palpate pulses, detect changes in texture, body contour, muscle tone, and  joint movement
Professionalism	Ability to demonstrate professional behaviors and a strong work ethic	Demonstrate respect, moral and ethical behaviors in all academic and professional settings Demonstrate time management skills that promote punctual attendance to class, lab and clinical settings Recognize personal limitations and request assistance as appropriate Present professional appearance and maintain personal hygiene
Environmental	Ability to tolerate environmental stressors	Work with chemicals and detergents Tolerate exposure to fumes and odors Work in areas that are close and crowded Tolerate shift work (up to 12 hours) while wearing personal protective equipment (mask, gloves, gown, goggles) as indicated