Functional Anatomy PTA 2010/2015
This is my favorite class I have had so far in the PTA program. It includes Neuroscience, Functional Anatomy, a Palpation Lab, and a Cadaver Lab. I love to learn about the human body and how it relates to movement. Being able to palpate muscles, and bony prominences requires skill, knowledge, critical thinking, good communication, and a lot of practice. I plan to master the art of palpation so I can use it to better assist my clients and patients. I feel so privileged to have access to the cadavers. I am amazed at my ability to be able to identify structures on the human body. Another aspect of this class is Neuroscience. Neuroscience is the study of the nervous system. I have learned a lot about the functions of the many elements that make up the nervous system, and how they relate to movement.
In this class we are required to complete practical examinations. During these practicals we are required to accurately identify all of the muscles in a defined motion group, describe the origin and insertion for any given muscle in the group, identify all of the actions for the specified muscle, and then palpate the muscle on a fellow student. These practical exams are very challenging but rewarding and the knowledge I have obtained will be beneficial to me in the field of physical therapy.
In this class we are required to complete practical examinations. During these practicals we are required to accurately identify all of the muscles in a defined motion group, describe the origin and insertion for any given muscle in the group, identify all of the actions for the specified muscle, and then palpate the muscle on a fellow student. These practical exams are very challenging but rewarding and the knowledge I have obtained will be beneficial to me in the field of physical therapy.
Patient Care Skills PTA 2100/2110
In this class I have learned how to properly care for patients, body mechanics, medical documentation, medical terminology, and principles and use of mobility aids.
Wheelchairs and crutches are two of the mobility aids I have learned about. I decided to share the following two assignments because I got to experience first hand what it is like to use these aids. These experiences really benefited me in learning proper use of these aids as well as how to educate patients.
Wheelchairs and crutches are two of the mobility aids I have learned about. I decided to share the following two assignments because I got to experience first hand what it is like to use these aids. These experiences really benefited me in learning proper use of these aids as well as how to educate patients.
wheelchairadventure.doc | |
File Size: | 28 kb |
File Type: | doc |
crutchadventure.doc | |
File Size: | 25 kb |
File Type: | doc |
Therapeutic Modalities PTA 2200/2210
In this class I have learned several different types of therapeutic modalities. Some of these modalities include: heat, light, cryotherapy, hydrotherapy, traction, electrotherapy, continuous passive motion, electromagnetic energy, and treatment of edema. I learned in depth when these modalities are indicated in physical therapy, how they are performed, and when they are contraindicated.
Part of the course criteria includes the completion of practical examinations. Practical exams are designed to simulate client care situations. I was required to complete these exams while being observed and graded by my instructor. I decided to share the following practical exam because it shows in detail the tasks I was required to complete. During this particular exam, I was required to perform cervical traction on a fellow student. This exam required me to properly perform the treatment so I will be able to apply traction in the most safe and effective way.
Part of the course criteria includes the completion of practical examinations. Practical exams are designed to simulate client care situations. I was required to complete these exams while being observed and graded by my instructor. I decided to share the following practical exam because it shows in detail the tasks I was required to complete. During this particular exam, I was required to perform cervical traction on a fellow student. This exam required me to properly perform the treatment so I will be able to apply traction in the most safe and effective way.
tractionpractical.pdf | |
File Size: | 380 kb |
File Type: |
Principles of Therapeutic Exercise PTA 2300/2310
This has been a great class. I have been introduced to exercise physiology, range of motion, stretching, and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation techniques. I have learned many aspects of therapeutic exercise and ways to modify and progress exercises according to each patient's needs.
One important aspect of this class is to be able to identify different types of exercise equipment and their purpose. I chose to share the following assignment because it not only helped me to learn how to use the Pilates Reformer, but gave me the opportunity to learn about other types of equipment from my classmates as each of us presented the different types of equipment. This assignment will definitely benefit me in the field of physical therapy because now I am aware of several different exercises to do on different types of equipment.
One important aspect of this class is to be able to identify different types of exercise equipment and their purpose. I chose to share the following assignment because it not only helped me to learn how to use the Pilates Reformer, but gave me the opportunity to learn about other types of equipment from my classmates as each of us presented the different types of equipment. This assignment will definitely benefit me in the field of physical therapy because now I am aware of several different exercises to do on different types of equipment.
pilatesreformer.doc | |
File Size: | 156 kb |
File Type: | doc |
Special Topics for PTAs /PTA 2050
This class has helped me to become more organized and prepared for my future clinical experiences. It has also helped me to prepare for the national exam. We spent some time learning how to utilize our school resources, internet sites and library databases which has been extremely helpful and will be useful for the in-service I will be presenting at my clinical site.
Gerontology PTA 2530
The Great Aging Adventure
This class has taught me about the sociological, psychological, and physical aspects of the aging process. It has really allowed me to look at the aging process in a whole new light. I have learned so much about how to be empathetic to the elderly patients I will be seeing. I have also learned therapeutic treatment techniques and exercises that can help to improve the functional abilities in the elderly population. This class has definitely helped to prepare me for my clinical experience at a care center.
The picture on the left is of a classmate and me in our aging suits. This was an experience I will never forget. We had to walk around campus with this suit on. This assignment allowed me to experience a few of the physical restrictions an elderly person may experience.
The picture on the left is of a classmate and me in our aging suits. This was an experience I will never forget. We had to walk around campus with this suit on. This assignment allowed me to experience a few of the physical restrictions an elderly person may experience.
the_great_aging_adventure.docx | |
File Size: | 15 kb |
File Type: | docx |
Physical Therapy for Specific Clientele PTA 2510/2520
This class was full of valuable information that has helped prepare me to work with a variety of developmental disorders, pathologies, and diagnoses. I learned about a variety of physical therapy interventions used for women's health conditions, cardiovascular, pulmonary and pediatric disorders. A few of the diagnoses we were educated on are: cerebral palsy, spina bifida, muscular dystrophy, and developmental coordination disorder. The instructor for this course has many years of experience as a pediatric physical therapist and it was great to get her input on treatment ideas for these patients. We were also introduced to casting and orthotic construction. We got to experience fabricating casts and orthotics with materials such as fiberglass, gypsona plaster, and aquaplast.
The assignment I have chosen to share is a graphic presentation on woman's health. This assignment allowed me to review the different diagnoses related to women, and organize information about goals and treatment ideas for women.
The assignment I have chosen to share is a graphic presentation on woman's health. This assignment allowed me to review the different diagnoses related to women, and organize information about goals and treatment ideas for women.
womens_health.docx | |
File Size: | 25 kb |
File Type: | docx |
Data Collection PTA 2350/2360
This was a great class in which I learned valuable patient assessment tools such as measurements for range of motion using a goniometer; strength tests such as manual muscle testing; and analyzation of posture, balance and gait. We were also introduced to a variety of orthopedic special tests and sensory tests. These are all valuable tools I will be able to use throughout my career as a PTA in order to properly treat my patients, collect necessary data, and report patient progress.
In the lab for this course I was required to complete practical examinations. During these exams I had to perform specific range of motion and strength tests on a fellow classmate while being observed by my instructor. I learned the importance of performing these measurements with precision while watching for substitution patterns.
In the lab for this course I was required to complete practical examinations. During these exams I had to perform specific range of motion and strength tests on a fellow classmate while being observed by my instructor. I learned the importance of performing these measurements with precision while watching for substitution patterns.
Musculoskeletal Disorders PTA 2400/2410
This course provided me with instruction on the pathophysiology of the most common orthopedic disorders. We were challenged to use critical thinking in order to come up with treatment techniques for these disorders. We also got to watch videos of a few different orthopedic surgeries including an ACL repair and a total knee replacement.
In lab we learned rehabilitation protocols for different orthopedic procedures. We were often asked to perform and present intervention techniques to the class. We also learned a variety of joint mobilizations and interventions for postural dysfunctions.
In lab we learned rehabilitation protocols for different orthopedic procedures. We were often asked to perform and present intervention techniques to the class. We also learned a variety of joint mobilizations and interventions for postural dysfunctions.
Clinical Experience 1
My first clinical experience was at Emeritus Senior Living. I had the opportunity to work with elderly patients who have a variety of diagnoses and comorbidities. Some of these medical conditions include: Atrial fibrillation, COPD, CHF, Lumbar spine fusion, TKA, Diabetes, Encephalopathy, Influenza, Hypertension, Orthostatic hypotension, CVA, Post-polio, fractures, Sjogren Syndrome, Pactopenia, dyspnea, and edema. Each patient presented new challenges and required unique, individual treatment approaches. Many of the treatments included bed mobility training, safety education, transfer training; gait training with and without assistive devices; therapeutic exercise, neuromuscular reeducation, manual therapy, balance training, patient education and modalities. I had the privilege of working under an extremely skilled and knowledgeable physical therapist and PTA. I worked with a variety of interdisciplinary team members such as doctors, nurses, a dietitian, a speech language pathologist, occupational therapy, social workers, and an activity coordinator. During this clinical I was responsible for providing the majority of patient interventions as well as documentation. This experience has taught me so much about how to provide quality patient care.
The assignment I have posted is a power point presentation. I presented an In-Service on Manual Lymphatic Drainage to the therapy department at Emeritus. This is a topic that I found this clinic could really learn and benefit from. During my clinical experience, I noticed many of the patients suffer from edema. I demonstrated two basic protocols for lymphatic drainage massage to the staff.
The assignment I have posted is a power point presentation. I presented an In-Service on Manual Lymphatic Drainage to the therapy department at Emeritus. This is a topic that I found this clinic could really learn and benefit from. During my clinical experience, I noticed many of the patients suffer from edema. I demonstrated two basic protocols for lymphatic drainage massage to the staff.
lymphatic_drainage_massage.pptx | |
File Size: | 365 kb |
File Type: | pptx |
Neurological Disorders PTA 2450/2460
This course has prepared me to treat a variety of patients with different neurological disorders. Some of these disorders include: Parkinson's Disease, movement disorders, vestibular dysfunction, Lower Motor Neuron disorders, CVA/Stroke, Traumatic Brain Injuries, Multiple Sclerosis, and Spinal Cord Injuries. I have learned a variety of wonderful treatment techniques that will assist me in helping these patients to be as functional as possible, gain independence, and improve their quality of life. I have practiced Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation techniques that will assist my patients with motor learning and motor control. These techniques are very beneficial and I plan to use them throughout my career as a PTA.
The assignment I have decided to post is called, "The Great Stroke Adventure." I was required to simulate what it is like to experience the after effects of a stroke and write a reflection on it. This assignment was beneficial in helping me to understand what it is like to experience some of the functional limitations associated with someone who has had a stroke. It has also helped me to come up with different treatment ideas for this type of neurological disorder.
The assignment I have decided to post is called, "The Great Stroke Adventure." I was required to simulate what it is like to experience the after effects of a stroke and write a reflection on it. This assignment was beneficial in helping me to understand what it is like to experience some of the functional limitations associated with someone who has had a stroke. It has also helped me to come up with different treatment ideas for this type of neurological disorder.
the_great_stroke_adventure.docx | |
File Size: | 14 kb |
File Type: | docx |
Clinical Experience 2
My second clinical experience was at Park City Medical Center working in their outpatient orthopedic clinic. I had the privilege to work in a state of the art hospital known for their outstanding care and surgical expertise. I saw a variety of patients and assisted them with conservative and post-operative physical therapy. Some of the diagnoses I saw include: Achilles tendonitis, hip bursitis, patellofemoral dysfunction, MCL sprain, SI dysfunction, arthritis, ankle sprain, and rotator cuff impingement. Some of the post-surgical diagnoses I worked with include: Subacromial decompression/distal clavicle resection, meniscectomy, ACL reconstruction, total knee arthroplasty, rotator cuff repair, and ORIF fibular fracture. Many of the patients I worked with were athletes and my job was to challenge them and to prepare them to get back to their sport. I became proficient in prescribing manual therapy and therapeutic exercise techniques to my patients. I also became proficient in using a variety of data collection techniques to assess limitations and progress. Overall, this was an exceptional learning experience that was both challenging and rewarding.
The following assignment posted is a copy of the In-Service I presented to the clinic. I chose the topic, "Tai Chi for balance and postural control" because I knew it could be beneficial to the clinic and could help a variety of their patients. I also demonstrated and taught Tai Chi exercises to the clinical staff.
The following assignment posted is a copy of the In-Service I presented to the clinic. I chose the topic, "Tai Chi for balance and postural control" because I knew it could be beneficial to the clinic and could help a variety of their patients. I also demonstrated and taught Tai Chi exercises to the clinical staff.
tai_chi.pptx | |
File Size: | 770 kb |
File Type: | pptx |
Clinical Experience 3
My third and final clinical internship was at the University of Utah Hospital in general acute care. I was responsible for rotating to a variety of different floors such as: Acute Internal Medicine, Surgical Intensive Care Unit, Intermedicate Medical Care Unit, Neuro Acute Care, Neuro Critical Care, Cardiovascular Medicine unit, Coronary Care Unit, Psychiatric Ward, and Surgical Specialty and transplant. I was able to work with a wide variety of patients and some with severe cognitive and functional deficits. I have become efficient with complex line management and learned to work with other healthcare team members to ensure patient safety prior to leaving the hospital. I have learned how closely I have to monitor patients due to the severity of their medical diagnoses and deficits. I also learned how to communicate effectively w/ patients unable to speak due to disability or tracheotomies and patients who speak languages other than my own. During this experience I learned so many valuable tools that will benefit me as a PTA.
I have posted a copy of the In-Service I presented to the acute care staff at the University of Utah. The subject I presented was, "LSVT Therapy for Parkinson's Disease." I chose this topic because Parkinson's Disease is a common diagnosis seen and I wanted to provide them with new tools to treat these patients.
I have posted a copy of the In-Service I presented to the acute care staff at the University of Utah. The subject I presented was, "LSVT Therapy for Parkinson's Disease." I chose this topic because Parkinson's Disease is a common diagnosis seen and I wanted to provide them with new tools to treat these patients.
parkinsons_disease.pptx | |
File Size: | 1806 kb |
File Type: | pptx |
Sports Physical Therapy PTA 2950
This course taught me a variety of treatment techniques for different orthopedic conditions as well as sports injuries. During lab we learned and practiced wrapping and taping techniques for plantar fasciitis, turf toe, achilles tendonitis, patellar tendonitis, groin strain, hamstring strain, IT band pain, wrist sprain, tennis elbow, and rotator cuff impingement. We also learned the mechanisms of different sports injuries and therapeutic exercises to assist in rehabilitation.
The following assignment is a field observation assignment where I attended a college softball game. I was required to observe the warm-up and watch the kinematics of the athletes during the game. This assignment was beneficial in helping me understand how injuries can occur during this sport and problem solve to come up with treatment techniques.
The following assignment is a field observation assignment where I attended a college softball game. I was required to observe the warm-up and watch the kinematics of the athletes during the game. This assignment was beneficial in helping me understand how injuries can occur during this sport and problem solve to come up with treatment techniques.
field_observation_ass..docx | |
File Size: | 15 kb |
File Type: | docx |
Seminar for Physical Therapist Assistants PTA 2750
This course helped to better prepare me to join the workforce and field of Physical Therapy. We had class discussions about values and ethical conduct in the field of Physical Therapy. During this course I developed a quality resume and cover letter. I also conducted a mock job interview and was interviewed by a physical therapist and a physical therapist assistant student. I received valuable feedback to assist me in future interviews. This class also emphasized the importance of evidence-based practice. I was required to critique and utilize peer-reviewed research articles during this course.
The assignment I've submitted is a research article critique and summary. I found a research article, summarized it, and pointed out the strengths and weaknesses of the article. This assignment allowed me to assess recent research related to physical therapy. This is a valuable tool I will utilize in the future to ensure I am providing quality evidence-based care.
The assignment I've submitted is a research article critique and summary. I found a research article, summarized it, and pointed out the strengths and weaknesses of the article. This assignment allowed me to assess recent research related to physical therapy. This is a valuable tool I will utilize in the future to ensure I am providing quality evidence-based care.
research_article_critique.docx | |
File Size: | 16 kb |
File Type: | docx |