MANUAL OF STUDENT STANDARDS - South Texas … Standards...2220 LAUNDRY ROOM 52 2230 FACILITY TELEPHONES 52 2240 STUDENT EMPLOYMENT 52 2250 53PTA LICENSURE EXAM PROCESS & FEES 2260

SOUTH TEXAS COLLEGE PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT PROGRAM

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SOUTH TEXAS COLLEGE

PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT PROGRAM

MANUAL OF STUDENT

STANDARDS Dr. Ramiro R. Casso

Nursing and Allied Health Campus P.O. Box 9701 1101 E. Vermont Avenue McAllen, Texas 78503

(956) 872-3161 FAX (956) 872-3163

DISCLAIMER: The Manual of Student Standards established by the PTA Program does not conflict with the policies and procedures in effect for all students of South Texas College and/or the Standards in effect for all NAH Program students, but may be more specific than those written in the STC College Catalog and/or the NAH Student Handbook. Students are held accountable to these standards upon admission to the program.

Updated 6/20/14 Updated 5/1/15, Updated 6/16/16, Updated 7/14/17, Updated 7/13/18, Updated 6/28/19, 7/5/19


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Manual of Student Standards TABLE OF CONTENTS

GENERAL INFORMATION I. DIVISION AND PROGRAM CONTACT INFORMATION / ACCREDITATION 4

II. PTA PROGRAM MISSION STATEMENT 5III. PHILOSOPHY STATEMENT 6IV PTA PROGRAM GOALS/ LEARNING OUTCOMES 7V. DEVELOPMENT OF PROGRAM STANDARDS / ENFORCEMENT OF STANDARDS 8

VII DEGREE PLAN 9VIII COURSE DESCRIPTIONS 10

STANDARD STUDENT STANDARDS

1000 STUDENT CONDUCT 13 1001 TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE STANDARDS 141002 STUDENT ACCOMODATIONS 171010 GENERAL MEDICAL / HEALTH CONDITION 171020 PROFESSIONALISM PERFORMANCE EXPECTATIONS 181025 BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS DURING OFF-CAMPUS EVENTS 191040 GROUNDS FOR DENIAL OF LICENSE 191050 CONFIDENTIALITY OF STUDENT RECORDS 201060 PROGRAM COSTS 211065 FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE OPPORTUNITIES 251070 COST OF EMERGENCY SERVICES IN OFF-CAMPUS EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCES 261080 COURSE COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS 261090 GRADING SCALE 272000 EXAMINATION STANDARDS 272010 EXAMINATION PROCEDURES FOR A SECURE TESTING ENVIRONMENT 282020 EXAMINATION REVIEW 292030 LAB PRACTICAL REVIEW 292040 RE-EXAMINATION 302050 LAB PRACTICAL STUDENT PARTICIPATION 312060 STUDENT RETENTION 322070 EXIT EXAM 332080 PROGRESSION CRITERIA 332081 PTA PROGRAM READMISSION PROCESS 342082 PTA PROGRAM READMISSION PORTFOLIO 362090 PINNING CEREMONY 382100 ATTENDANCE 382110 PUNCTUALITY 392120 CRITICAL THINKING 392130 LAB SKILLS CHECK-OFFS 402140 SELF-ASSESSMENT 402150 ASSIGNMENTS 412160 CELL PHONES & ELECTRONIC MEDIA(CLASSROOM) 412161 AUDIO/VIDEO TAPING CLASS LECTURES, PRESENTATIONS OR EVENTS 422162 PHOTOGRAPHING AND VIDEO TAPING STUDENTS 42


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TABLE OF CONTENTS Cont.

STANDARD STUDENT STANDARDS (CONTINUED) 2170 LABORATORY PARTICIPATION AND SAFETY 432180 SAFETY PROCEDURES (MSDS) 442182 BREACH OF SAFETY/AUTOMATIC FAILURE 442190 STUDENT PTA (SPTA) CLUB 452195 SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY 462200 CLASSROOM DRESS CODE 472210 LABORATORY DRESS CODE 502220 LAUNDRY ROOM 522230 FACILITY TELEPHONES 522240 STUDENT EMPLOYMENT 522250 PTA LICENSURE EXAM PROCESS & FEES 532260 PTA CONTINUING COMPETENCY & LICENSURE RENEWAL 54

STANDARD CLINICAL STANDARDS 4000 CLINICAL DRESS CODE 56 4010 ASSESSMENT OF CLINICAL PERFORMANCE 584015 COMMUNICATION WITH STUDENTS DURING PRACTICUM EXPERIENCES 594020 PRACTICUM PROGRESSION CRITERIA 604030 ASSIGNMENTS AND ACTIVITIES 614040 PRACTICUM GRADE COMPILATION 624044 CLINICAL REQUIREMENT COMPLIANCE 624045 MANDATORY ON-LINE HOSPITAL ORIENTATION 624050 CLINIC ATTENDANCE 634060 PUNCTUALITY 634070 CELL PHONES & ELECTRONIC MEDIA (CLINIC) 644080 CLINIC SITES & TRAVEL EXPECTATIONS 644090 APTA STANDARDS OF ETHICAL CONDUCT FOR THE PTA 655000 APTA MINIMUM REQUIRED SKILLS OF PTA GRADUATES AT ENTRY-LEVEL 68

MISCELLANEOUS FORMS A. PROFESSIONAL BEHAVIORS SELF-ASSESSMENT FORM 81 B. PTA PROGRAM STUDENT CONSENT FORM 86C. STUDENT CONSULTATION FORM 88D. STUDENT EXAM ITEM CHALLENGE FORM 89E. COMMUNITY SERVICE LOG 90F. STUDENT MEDICAL HISTORY QUESTIONNAIRE 91G. CLINICAL CONFLICT OF INTEREST FORM 93H. PRACTICUM PROGRESSION FLOWCHART 94I. LAB PRACTICAL (LP) EXAM FLOWCHART 95


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DIVISION AND PROGRAM CONTACT INFORMATION

Division Dean: Jayson Valerio, DNP, RN 872-3113

PTA Program Chair: Diana S. Hernandez, PT, MEd 872-3152

PTA Program Academic Coord. of Clinical Education (ACCE):

Arlene P. Garcia, PTA 872-3153

PTA Instructor Sharlene Polvado, PTA 872-3016

PTA Instructor Sayda Ruelas, M.P.T. 872-3969

PTA Lab Assistant Diana Garcia, PT, DPT 872-3038

PTA Lab Assistants Celania Calderon, PTA

872-3038

Department Secretary Mari Ponce-Vargas 872-3161

PTA Office Fax Number 872-3163

Library – Nursing & Allied Health Campus 872-3121

Center for Learning Excellence – NAH Campus 872-3044

Student Services – NAH Campus 872-3100

ACCREDITATION STATEMENT

The Physical Therapist Assistant at South Texas College is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), 1111 North Fairfax Street, Alexandria, VA 22314-1488; Telephone: (703) 706-3245. Email: [email protected]; Website: http://www.capteonline.org

Students must be graduates of an accredited PTA program in order to be eligible to sit for their licensure exam.

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.capteonline.org/


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PTA PROGAM MISSION STATEMENT

The PTA program is designed to prepare a qualified workforce of Physical Therapist Assistants by providing a quality academic education at the technical career level. The program will partner with local health care settings for external learning experiences to provide close linkages with the community in order to meet the diverse needs of our multi- cultural region by:

• Maintaining a high standard of excellence in education • Offering access and opportunity for qualified students • Promoting student success and completion • Meeting the needs of business and industry for the economic vitality of our region • Providing service to the community and opportunity for lifelong learning • Recognizing the diversity of individuals and communities • Preparing program students to obtain PTA licensure • Ensuring continuous accreditation of the program

The mission of the PTA Program is therefore, to prepare Associate of Applied Science graduates to be competent, safe, legal, and ethical providers of care and members of the physical therapy profession. Graduates are committed to serve a culturally diverse community. The PTA Program facilitates the development of critical thinking and problem solving skills through academic learning, clinical practicum experiences and various learning situations. Under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist, graduates will provide physical therapy intervention to selected clients with health care needs in a variety of settings. PTA graduates are prepared to become vital members of the PT profession who practice within the guidelines of the American Physical Therapy Association’s Standards of Practice, Standards of Ethical Conduct for the PTA, and applicable state regulations.


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PHILOSOPHY STATEMENT South Texas College’s PTA Program offers a sequence of learning experiences, which foster the efficient, safe, and intelligent application of scientific and physical therapy knowledge.

• The program is student centered, and reflects changes in the body of knowledge in the profession as well as in technology and the economy.

• Education is goal directed and mutually interactive between faculty and students. The responsibility of the faculty is planning, p r o selecting, organizing, sequencing, implementing and evaluating the program and assessing, guiding, and evaluating the learners.

• Learning experiences are organized in a curriculum addressing the needs of a diverse community of patients/clients.

• Learning is the responsibility of the student and should be characterized by critical thinking and decision-making.

The Physical Therapist Assistant Program at South Texas College is committed to providing educational experiences for PTA students that will enable them to become physical therapy providers who:

• Practice under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist within the scope of practice as a PTA;

• Are competent and skilled in the provision of quality physical therapy services; • Are caring individuals who understand their ultimate responsibility to

each individual patient and the community which they serve; • Participate in professional activities to promote professional

growth and self- development; • Are effective promoters of optimal health and function in

themselves, in their patients, and throughout the community; • Are able to communicate effectively with patients, families, and members of

the health care community and provide culturally sensitive care essential for working with patients in this geographical region.


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PTA PROGRAM GOALS

1. The PTA Program will contribute to meeting the diverse needs of our region by providing training, leadership, quality instruction and practical experience for STC students admitted to the program, thus providing area facilities with skilled physical therapist assistants.

2. The PTA program curriculum will equip students with the knowledge, clinical skills, and professional integrity necessary to develop competent, safe, legal, and ethical caregivers prepared to work under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist in a variety of physical therapy settings.

3. The PTA Program will maintain a high standard of excellence in all areas in order to maintain accreditation, positively impact our communities, and support the Comprehensive Mission of the college.

PTA PROGRAM LEARNING OUTCOMES

The PTA Program at STC will prepare students who will: PLO 1 Differentiate the roles and responsibilities of the PT and PTA in the provision of physical therapy care. PLO 2 Demonstrate adherence to ethical and legal guidelines in the delivery of patient care. PLO 3 Demonstrate communication skills that result in effective information exchange and

collaboration with patients, their families, and other health care personnel. PLO 4 Demonstrate competence in implementing interventions identified in the plan of care

established by the physical therapist. PLO 5 Complete clear and relevant physical therapy patient care documentation according to

practice guidelines. PLO 6 Demonstrate respect for patient/client differences, values, and preferences in the

delivery of physical therapy services. PLO 7 Apply effective clinical decision-making skills within the context of available evidence

based practice to carry out the plan of care established by the physical therapist. PLO 8 Recognize the role of the PTA in reimbursement and budgetary processes in the delivery of

physical therapy services. PLO 9 Exhibit professional conduct that reflects a commitment to meet the expectations of the

patients and community they serve, and the profession of physical therapy. PLO 10 Integrate the aspects of human structure, function and dysfunction as a foundation for

applying clinical judgment when carrying out the plan of care established by the physical therapist.

Updated July2018


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DEVELOPMENT OF PROGRAM STANDARDS

The following are general standards that pertain to all PTA students. These standards do not conflict with the policies/procedures in effect for all students at STC or NAH Division Standards, but may be more specific.

Standards are developed by the PTA faculty and are reviewed and/or revised annually with input as needed from the PTA Community Advisory Committee. Input from students is welcomed and valued. Suggestions to be considered should be made in writing and submitted to the Program Chair. PTA Program students are expected to consult the annual STC Catalog for adherence with current policies and procedures and the NAH Student Handbook for adherence with current Division standards.

To facilitate comprehension of the Manual of Student Standards, all cohort students are required to complete an annual review the Manual and demonstrate understanding by taking an online assessment and scoring a minimum of 85%. Multiple attempts are allowed until the required score is earned.

Program students are advised of new standards or revisions to current standards that occur within the academic year via an announcement on the Blackboard course “PTA Program Collective Resources”.

ENFORCEMENT OF STANDARDS

PTA faculty, with assistance as needed from the Department of Student Affairs, will enforce these standards to promote an effective operation of the program and to assure fair practice and equity for all students. Confidentiality dictates that students should not be aware of any faculty actions with other students when administering these standards.


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Updated July2014

ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE DEGREE PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT

PROGRAM 2019-2020 PRE-REQUISITES

lec hrs

lab hrs

ext hrs

cont hrs

cred hrs

BIOL 2401 Anatomy and Physiology I 3 3 0 96 4 ENGL 1301 Composition 3 0 0 48 3 PTHA 1409 Introduction to Physical Therapy 3 2 0 80 4

Total 9 5 0 224 11 FIRST YEAR First Semester-Fall BIOL 2402 Anatomy and Physiology II 3 3 0 96 4 PTHA 1405 Basic Patient Care Skills 3 3 0 96 4 PTHA 1413 Functional Anatomy 3 3 0 96 5 PTHA 2201 Essentials of Data Collection 1 4 0 80 2

Total 10 13 0 368 14 Second Semester-Spring PSYC 2314 Lifespan Growth and Development. 3 0 0 48 3 PTHA 1321 Pathophysiology 2 2 0 64 3 PTHA 1531 Physical Agents 3 6 0 144 5 PTHA 2509 Therapeutic Exercise 3 6 0 144 5

Total 11 14 0 400 16

Third Semester-Summer PTHA 1266 Practicum I (5 weeks) 0 0 14 224 2 PTHA 2205 Neurology 2 0 0 32 2 2 0 14 256 4 FIRST YEAR Fourth Semester-Fall PTHA 2431 Management of Neurological Disorders 2 6 0 128 4 PTHA 2435 Rehabilitation Techniques 2 6 0 128 4

*Humanities Elective 3 0 0 48 3 Total 7 12 0 304 11

Fifth Semester-Spring PTHA 2266 Practicum II (6 weeks) 0 0 15 240 2 PTHA 2267 Practicum III (6 weeks) 0 0 15 240 2 PTHA 2339 CAPSTONE: Professional Issues 3 0 0 48 3

Total 3 0 30 528 7

Total Contact Hours: 2080 Total Credit Hours: 63 Indicates credit hour requirements in General Education *HUMANITIES ELECTIVE: Departmental Approval Required


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COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

PTHA 1409 INTRODUCTION TO PHYSICAL THERAPY This course is an introduction to the profession of physical therapy and the role of the physical therapist assistant. It includes the application of basic patient handling, functional skills, communication, and selected data collection techniques.

Prerequisite: Departmental approval required.

PTHA 1405 BASIC PATIENT CARE SKILLS This course is an introduction to the theory and application of basic patient handling, communication and functional skills. It includes selected data collection techniques.

Prerequisite: Acceptance to the PTA Program

PTHA 1413 FUNCTIONAL ANATOMY This course is a study of the musculoskeletal and neuromuscular systems and their relationship to normal and abnormal movement.

Prerequisite: Acceptance to the PTA Program

PTHA 1321 PATHOPHYSIOLOGY FOR THE PTA This course is a study of the pathogenesis, prognosis, and therapeutic management of diseases/conditions commonly encountered in physical therapy.

Prerequisite: Completion of previous semester courses with a grade of “C” or better.

PTHA 1531 PHYSICAL AGENTS this course is a study of the biophysical principles, and application of therapeutic physical agents with specific emphasis on indications, contraindications, medical efficacy and physiological effects.


PTHA 2201 ESSENTIALS OF DATA COLLECTION This course is a study of data collection techniques used to prepare the physical therapist assistant to assist in patient/client management. Prerequisite: Acceptance to PTA Program.

PTHA 2509 THERAPEUTIC EXERCISE This course will offer critical examination of concepts, principles and application of techniques related to therapeutic exercise and functional training.


PTHA 2205 NEUROLOGY This course is a study of neuroanatomy and neurophysiology as it relates to commonly encountered neurological conditions.


PTHA 2431 MANAGEMENT OF NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS This is an advanced course integrating previously learned and new skills/techniques into the comprehensive rehabilitation of selected neurological disorders.



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PTHA 2435 REHABILITATION TECHNIQUES This is an advanced course integrating previously learned and new skills/techniques into the comprehensive rehabilitation of selected long-term pathologies/diseases such as musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, cardiopulmonary, and integumentary disorders.

Prerequisite: Completion of previous semester courses with a grade of “C” or better. PTHA 1266 PRACTICUM I This course provides practical, general workplace training supported by an individualized learning plan developed by the employer, college, and the student. This course is a basic type of health professions work-based instruction that helps students gain practical experience in physical therapy, enhance skills and integrate knowledge. The emphasis is on practical work experience in acute or outpatient settings for which the student has already acquired the necessary theoretical knowledge and skills in basic patient care and physical agents. Direct supervision is provided by the clinical instructor. A health practicum is an unpaid learning experience.

Prerequisite: Completion of previous semester courses with a grade of “C” or better. PTHA 2266 PRACTICUM II This course provides practical, general workplace training supported by an individualized learning plan developed by the employer, college, and the student. This course is an intermediate type of health professions work-based instruction that helps students gain practical experience in physical therapy, enhance skills and integrate knowledge. The emphasis is on practical work experience in rehabilitation or inpatient settings for which the student has already acquired the necessary theoretical knowledge and basic skills in orthopedic, neurological, or general medical management. Direct supervision is provided by the clinical instructor. A health practicum is an unpaid learning experience.

Prerequisite: Completion of previous semester courses with a grade of “C” or better. PTHA 2267 PRACTICUM III This course provides practical, general workplace training supported by an individualized learning plan developed by the employer, college, and the student. This course is an advanced type of health professions work-based instruction that helps students gain practical experience in physical therapy, enhance skills and integrate knowledge. The emphasis is on practical work experience in rehabilitation or outpatient settings for which the student has already acquired the necessary theoretical knowledge and basic skills in neurological, sport medicine, geriatric, or pediatric management. Direct supervision is provided by the clinical instructor. A health practicum is an unpaid learning experience.

Prerequisite: Completion of PTHA 2266 with a grade of “C” or better. PTHA 2339 CAPSTONE: PROFESSIONAL ISSUES This is a capstone course, which engages the student in the discussion of professional issues and behaviors related to clinical practice. It prepares the student for transition into the workforce.



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Student Standards



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Student Standard 1000: STUDENT CONDUCT Revised June 2014

Students in the South Texas College Physical Therapist Assistant Program are expected to adhere to all STC PTA Program Standards, STC Division of Nursing & Allied Health Student Handbook Standards, and the STC Student Code of Conduct.

Standards, guidelines and codes apply to both academic and practicum experiences as well as during all program related activities. Program faculty and students are also expected to follow the APTA Standards of Practice for Physical Therapy, APTA Standards of Ethical Conduct for the PTA, and the Texas Practice Act & Rules. Students who fail to adhere to these principles will be subject to disciplinary action, resulting sanctions, and possible program dismissal.

http://nah.southtexascollege.edu/pdf/Student%20Handbook.pdf


http://www.southtexascollege.edu/pdf/Student_Code_Of_Conduct.pdf

https://www.apta.org/uploadedFiles/APTAorg/About_Us/Policies/HOD/Practice/Standards.pdf

http://www.apta.org/uploadedFiles/APTAorg/About_Us/Policies/Ethics/StandardsEthicalConductPTA.pdf?navID=10737423626



http://www.ptot.texas.gov/page/act-and-rules


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Student Standard 1001: TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE STANDARDS Revised July 2014

Technical Performance Standards are the essential functions which every STC PTA student is expected to perform for successful participation in the Program. These are necessary in order to provide physical therapy services in a safe, ethical, and legal manner. Students participating in the STC PTA Program are expected to demonstrate the essential functions listed below, with or without reasonable accommodation. These are applicable in classroom, laboratories, and clinical settings. The STC PTA Program uses independent clinical education sites that may or may not be able to offer the same reasonable accommodations that are made available by the College. Any student wishing to request reasonable accommodations due to a documented disability must initiate the process by contacting an ADA representative from the STC Office of Disability Support Services for information and procedures at (956) 872-2513. For additional information please refer to Student Accommodations Standard 1002.

1. READ: Students must be able to read and understand printed materials used in the classroom and health care settings such as textbooks, signs, medical supply packages, policy and procedure manuals and patient records.

2. ARITHMATIC COMPETENCE: Students must be able to read and understand

columns of numbers and measurement marks, count rates, tell time, use measuring tools, write numbers in records, and calculate (add, subtract, multiply, divide) mathematical information such as fluid volumes, weights and measurements, and vital signs.

3. CRITICAL THINKING: Students must possess sufficient ability to:

• comprehend and process information in a timely manner

• acquire and apply information from classroom instruction, skills laboratory experiences, independent learning, and group projects

• Prioritize multiple tasks, process information, and make decisions • collect, interpret, and assess data about patients

• observe, measure, and interpret normal and abnormal patient responses to physical therapy interventions, and appropriately modify treatment interventions

• act safely and ethically in the physical therapy lab and clinic

4. COMMUNICATION: Students must be able to:

• communicate effectively in English in oral and written form with peers, instructors, patients, and other health care professionals

• complete assignments and tests in both written and oral formats

• give directions, explain procedures, give oral reports, speak on the telephone and interact with others

• document care using appropriate terminology, accuracy, efficiency, and in a legible manner.

• comprehend, interpret, and follow oral and written instructions • recognize, interpret, and respond to nonverbal behavior of self and others

• interpret and communicate information regarding the status, safety, and rehabilitation of patients.


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5. BEHAVIORAL SOCIAL SKILLS: Students must be able to:

• develop therapeutic relationships with patients and others

• work in stressful situations with multiple patients and colleagues at the same time

• interact appropriately with individuals of all ages, genders, races,socio- economic, religious, and cultural backgrounds

• establish rapport and work effectively with peers, patients/clients,and instructors (ask advice, seek information, and share)

• negotiate interpersonal conflicts• cope with the fast pace of class/lab/clinic, heavy workloads, classroom

and/or patient demands, changes in schedule, motivate a sometimesdiscouraged patient and demonstrate patience and empathy with patients

• focus attention on task, monitor own emotions, perform multipleresponsibilities concurrently, deal with the unexpected, handlestrong emotions (i.e. grief, revulsion), manage impulses

• tolerate close physical contact with co-workers and sick or injuredpatients who may have multiple problems and diagnoses

• cope with patients who may be terminally ill• exercise appropriate work ethics including the maintenance of confidentiality.• recognize and respond appropriately to potentially dangerous situations

• maintain the emotional health and stability required to fully utilizeintellectual capabilities, demonstrate good judgment, and render physicaltherapy treatment.

6. FINE MOTOR: Students must possess manual dexterity necessary to palpatemuscles and/or bony prominences, pick up objects with hands, grasp small objects, write with pen or pencil, and squeeze fingers.

7. MOTOR CONTROL: Students need to be in good physical condition andhave a moderate amount of strength in order to:

• Safely adjust, move, position, and lift patients and equipment

• Safely assist and protect patients who are walking with andwithout assistive devices, exercising, or performing otheractivities

• Independently adjust equipment parts, perform manual therapy techniques,and utilize PT equipment such as goniometers, grip gauges, wheelchairs andfree weights

• Provide for the patient’s safety in all physical therapy activities

• Reach arms above head and below waist, stoop/twist, stretch, bend, kneel,squat, push, pull, walk, sit, or crawl as the need arises; move quickly(respond to emergency) while maintaining safe posture/body mechanics

• Perform bimanual activities easily

• Obtain and maintain CPR certification (American Heart AssociationCPR for Healthcare Providers)

• Use proper body mechanics for all skills related to physical therapy,and apply standard precautions when rendering physical therapytreatment

• Possess the endurance necessary to perform 40 hour work weeks


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during clinical education courses • Stand and maintain balance during classroom or therapeutic procedures/

activities for long periods of time, and maintain a high energy level throughout the day

8. VISUAL: Students must be able to:

• read small numbers/scales and fine print on goniometers and other measuring devices accurately to ensure safe treatment

• recognize and interpret facial expressions and body language

• identify normal and abnormal postures and patterns of movement

• recognize differences and changes in skin and soft tissue

• recognize a patient’s physiological status

• assess a patient’s environment

• read computer screens

• recognize depths and use peripheral vision

9. AUDITORY: Students must be able to:

• recognize and respond to a normal speaking level sounds/verbal communication, auditory equipment timers, and alarms in an environment with a moderate level of background noise

• effectively use equipment to assess blood pressure, pulse rate, and breath sounds

10. SMELL: Students must be able to detect odors from client, smoke, gases or

noxious smells.

11. TACTILE: Students must be able to:

• feel vibrations (palpate pulses)

• detect and assess changes or abnormalities in skin texture, skin temperature, muscle tone, and joint movement

• detect environmental temperature (drafts, cold and hot) • adjust physical therapy equipment.

12. Students must have the ability to use computers and complete computer-

based assignments.

13. Students must have the ability to complete tasks/ examinations within required time limits in the classroom, laboratory and in the clinical areas.


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Student Standard 1002: STUDENT ACCOMODATIONS July 2014, Modified June 2019

The STC PTA Program will provide accommodations to facilitate student achievement

of stated objectives, as determined by the STC Counseling & Student Disability

Services. However, those accommodations can in no way jeopardize the student’s

ability to perform physical therapy skills and interventions safely and competently, in

both the classroom and clinic settings.

For additional information regarding support services refer to STC’s Institutional Policy

Statements which may be found in the NAH Division Handbook.

Student Standard 1010: GENERAL MEDICAL/HEALTH CONDITION July, 2014, revised July 2017, June 2019

Timely disclosure of health information ensures that program faculty is prepared to assist students during a medical emergency as well as provide for student safety during classroom, laboratory and clinic activities. As such, students are required to disclose health and medical information via the PTA Student Medical History (Form F).

Additional information related to Changes in Health Condition, Communicable Diseases and Infection Guidelines may be found in the NAH Division Handbook.


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Student Standard 1020: PROFESSIONALISM PERFORMANCE EXPECTATIONS Revised 2013, July

2019

Professionalism includes attributes, characteristics or behaviors that are not explicitly part of the profession's core of knowledge and technical skills, but are nevertheless required for success in the profession.

Each PTA represents the entire profession to the client/patient and the public being served. The PTA’s expressed or demonstrated attitude towards others, as well as towards other health professions and services, is apt to be reflected in the subsequent attitude of the patient towards other therapists and to health care in general. Attitudes may be reflected in outward behavior such as facial expressions, actions, body language and conversation. It is very important to your future that you exhibit behavior that reflects your attitude of openness to learning and motivation to helping others. The “Professional Behaviors Self-Assessment Form” (see miscellaneous forms section of handbook) below lists the professional behaviors expected of the PTA student, with examples of the type of observable behavior that is desirable. In an effort to assure readiness for entry to the PT profession, this criterion will be utilized for student reflection and self- assessment. Faculty will use the descriptions of the professional behaviors to communicate with students about expectations and to assess the students’ ongoing progress towards attainment.

By Midterm all students are required to complete a self-assessment of their professional behaviors using the “Professional Behaviors Self-Assessment Form” and forward an electronic copy to Mrs. Hernandez ([email protected]) or designee. Completed forms will be reviewed by faculty. Students will then meet with the Program Chair or designee, to discuss faculty assessment results and receive appropriate feedback. Students experiencing difficulty in developing professional behaviors will be expected to coordinate with faculty to identify ways to further their development in the form of a documented action plan. This process will be repeated by finals week. Students will be graded on their ability to:

• complete a thorough and accurate self-assessment

• develop a well thought out, measureable, and attainable plan of action

• demonstrate ongoing effort to address all identified areas of weakness in order to progress towards entry level

Professional Behavior grades will total 5% of the final grade for all didactic courses. Directions:

1. Read the description of each professional behavior and become familiar with the criteria.

2. Self-assess your performance continually, relative to the behaviors, using the stated criteria.

3. Complete the Assessment as follows:

a. Using a yellow Highlighter pen, highlight the bullet box for all behavioral criteria that describes behaviors you consistently demonstrate.

b. Fill in the next column to indicate the rating (B, D, or E) that appliesto each behavioral criterion.

c. Set goals and an action plan for development of all Beginning (B) andDeveloping (D) ratings, and indicate these on the far right column.

d. For all Entry level (E) ratings, give at least one specific example of atime when you demonstrated each behavioral criteria.



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Student Standard 1025: BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS DURING OFF-CAMPUS Revised May 2015, July 2018

EVENTS

During the PTA Program, students may participate in off-campus activities for labs and other events, including the Annual Texas Physical Therapy Association Conference. All off-campus locations are to be considered extensions of the STC classroom. As such, students are expected to adhere to classroom and laboratory Program Standards in order to ensure a safe and effective learning environment. Expectations include appropriate attire and demeanor, punctuality, active participation, and adherence to safety standards with respect to care of self, others, and care of environment. Additionally, students are expected to abide by all rules and regulations of the off-campus site. If patients are involved, students will respect the privacy and confidentiality of all health information as per federal law requirements (HIPAA). Failure to adhere to PTA Program standards and behavioral expectations may result in disciplinary action, resulting sanctions, and possible program dismissal.

Student Standard 1040: GROUNDS FOR DENIAL OF A LICENSE

According to the Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners PT Rules 343.5 the Board may deny a license to or discipline an applicant/respondent who has been found to have a history of substance abuse.

According to the Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners PT Rules 343.9 the Board may revoke or suspend an existing valid license, disqualify a person from receiving or renewing a license or deny to a person the opportunity to be examined for a license because of a person’s conviction of a felony or misdemeanor if the crime directly relates to the practice of physical therapy.

Students of the Physical Therapist Assistant Program should be aware that they may be denied a PTA license if they have a previous felony conviction or evidence of a history of substance abuse, regardless of successful completion of the PTA program.

Additional information regarding rules governing licensure may be found in the complete 2008 Physical Therapy rules located on the Executive Council of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy web site at http://www.ecptote.state.tx.us. Students requesting clarification of this statement may also call directly to the Texas State Board of Physical Therapy Examiners at

(512) 309-6900. All information/ discussions will remain confidential.

Students requesting clarification may speak with the PTA Program Chair or the Dean of the Nursing and Allied Health Division. All information/discussions will remain confidential.

Additional information regarding STC NAH standards is included in Section III “Student Standards” of the NAH Student Handbook.

http://www.ecptote.state.tx.us/



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Student Standard 1050: CONFIDENTIALITY OF STUDENT RECORDS May 2015

STC and the PTA Program strive to comply with legal guidelines for governing the release of student educational records. A file on each current PTA student is maintained in a locked file cabinet in the PTA File Room (#330). Individual files contain the student’s completed program application, transcripts, degree plan, signed consent forms, and any additional documentation signed by the student. It may be released only to a PTA faculty member and/or Division Dean upon request. A student may have access to his own file. Students 18 years or older must authorize in writing, their permission to share information with parents or other individuals outside the STC faculty or administration. All formal communication regarding student progress, problems, disciplinary actions, etc. must be reviewed and co- signed by all applicable parties in order to document the accuracy of the communication.


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Student Standard 1060: PROGRAM COSTS Revised July 2017, July 2018, July 2019

Please refer to the STC Catalog for the most current information on the fee structure for tuition and related fees per number of credit hours enrolled in per semester. The following is an estimate of costs per semester based on In-District tuition:

PTA Program Costs

Fall 2019 - Spring 2021

Prerequisite Semester Fees 11 credits Biol 2401 (4 credits), Engl 1301 (3 credits),

PTHA 1409 (4 credits)

Tution $ 847.00 Fees taken from Catalog 2019- 2020

PTA Differenctial Tuition Fee $ 220.00 ($55.00 / credit hr) ($55.00 * 4 credits)

Biology Differential Fee $ 60.00 ($15.00 / credit hr) ($15.00 * 4 credits)

Lab Fee $ 192.00 ($24.00 / credit hr) ($24.00 * 8 credits)

Registration Fee $ 150.00 Fees taken from Catalog 2019- 2020

Information Tech Fee $ 330.00 ($30.00 / credit hr) ($30.00 * 11 credits)

Learning Support Fee $ 132.00 ($12.00 / credit hr) ($12.00 * 11 credits)

Student Activity Fee $ 44.00 ($4.00 / credit hr) ($4.00 * 11 credits)

Books $ 350.00 estimated cost

Parking Permit $ 25.00 Annual Cost

TOTAL SEMESTER COST $ 2,350.00

First Semester (Fall 2019) 15 credits PTHA 1405 (4 credits) PTHA 1413 (4 credits),

PTHA 2201 (2 Credits), BIOL 2402 (4 Credits)

Tution $ 1,155.00 Fees taken from Catalog 2019- 2020

PTA Differenctial Tuition Fee $ 605.00 ($55.00 / credit hr) ($55.00 * 11

credits)

Biology Differential Fee $ 60.00 ($15.00 / credit hr) ($15.00 * 4 credits)

Lab Fee $ 240.00 ($24.00 / credit hr) ($24.00 * 10

credits)




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Exam Soft Fee $ 35.00 $35.00 / semester

Books/ Lab Packet $ 690.00 Estimated Cost

Criminal Background $ 60.00 Estimated Cost

Clinical Data Fee $ 60.00 Online Clinical Record

Other Expenses $ 125.00 Immunizations, CPR & First Aid Certification, TB

Clearance, Drug/alcohol and Background Check

Uniform Expenses $ 170.00 Uniform Polo, Uniform T-Shirts, Slacks, closed

toe shoes, lab shorts, etc.



Second Semester

(Spring 2020) 16 credits PTHA 1321 (3 credits), PTHA 1531 (5 credits),

PTHA 2509 (5 credits) PSYC 2314 (3 credits)

Tution $ 1,232.00 Fees taken from Catalog 2019- 2020

PTA Differenctial Tuition Fee $ 715.00 ($55.00 / credit hr) ($55.00 * 13

credits)

Lab Fee $ 336.00 ($24.00 / credit hr) ($24.00 * 14

credits)






Books $ 500.00 Estimated Cost


Third Semester

(Summer 2020) 4 credits PTHA 1266 (2 credits), PTHA 2205 (2 credits)






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Liablity Insurance $ 10.00 Estimated Cost

Insurance Fee $ 97.00 Estimated Cost, insurance may be purchased

through STC by the semester



Fourth Semester

(Fall 2020) 11 credits PTHA 2431 (4 credits), PTHA 2435 (4 credits),

HUMA Elective (3 Credits)



Lab Fee $ 96.00 ($24.00 / credit hr) ($24.00 * 4 credits)









Fifth Semester

(Spring 2021) 7 Credits PTHA 2266 (2 credits), PTHA 2267 (2 credits),

PTHA 2339 (3 credits)








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Liablity Insurance $ 10.00 Estimated Cost

Insurance Fee $ 97.00 Estimated Cost, insurance may be purchased

through STC by the semester

Scorebuilder Exam Fee $ 50.00 Estimated Cost

Graduation Pin $ 10.00 Estimated Cost


TOTAL PROGRAM COSTS $ 15,276.00

OTHER COSTS: Level II students typically attend the Texas Physical Therapy Association Annual Conference/Student Conclave in the final fall semester.

Cost = approx. $400.00 per person

(includes hotel, registration, meals, and transportation). This amount will be covered by SPTA Club if funds allow.

Students take a National Licensure Exam after graduation. This exam is often paid for in the final spring semester.

Cost = approx. $896.25

Fees go to:

• The Executive Council of PT and OT Examiners $125.00

• The Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy $533.00

• Prometrics $70.00 • IdentGo (fingerprinting) $38.25 • Temp license (optional) 60.00

• Recommended Board Review Manual Purchase ($70.00)

Professional clinical attire is required for all Practicum experiences (refer to PTA Clinical Dress Code).

Clothing Expenses (clinic)

• Slacks • Polo style shirts • Closed toe, non-skid shoes • Lab coat (clinic specific)

• Uniform scrubs (clinic specific)

Students are responsible for costs related to their own transportation to and from clinic sites.

Transportation Expenses (external clinic placement)

The STC PTA Program currently affiliates with clinic sites all across the Rio Grande Valley, from Rio Grande City to Brownsville.


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Students are responsible for personal classroom materials and supplies.

Misc.student materials

• USB storage drives • 3-ring binders, spiral notebooks

• DVD-RW 1.4GB blank disks for videotaping

• Paper, Pens, Pencils, Erasers, Highlighters

• Index cards • Back-pack, book bag

TB Test must remain current (has to be taken every six months)

TB Test

Student Standard 1070: FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE OPPORTUNITIES July

2014

Students enrolled in the Physical Therapist Assistant Program are eligible to apply for financial aid or other forms of assistance offered by the college. For more information visit the STC Student Financial Services web page. Students are also encouraged to apply for scholarships. There are several scholarship opportunities that are specifically to assist Physical Therapist Assistant students, as well as others that are available to the College community. Students may be eligible to receive assistance from:

• South Texas College’s Community Health Outreach Committee (CHOC) Scholarships

• Valley Initiative for Development and Advancement (VIDA)

• Workforce Solutions

• Edinburg Regional Medical Center Auxiliary Scholarship for Medical Related Studies

• Texas Alliance of PTA Educators Transitional Scholarship (PTA Students) • TPTA Coastal Bend District Student Scholarship (PTA Students/transitional) • APTA Minority Scholarship Award

Information and applications for PTA specific scholarships will be made available to all students by the PTA Program Chair.

PTA students have an additional financial assistance opportunity through the Texas Alliance of PTA Educators, Inc. in the form of an Annual Outstanding PTA Award. This award is typically based on nomination, TPTA involvement, and scholastic achievement. The monetary award consists of $250 to the individual student winner and $250 to their respective program student club. Information regarding this award will be made available to all students by the PTA Program Chair.

Students are also encouraged to log on to the APTA website for additional information on scholarships, awards, and grants related to physical therapy.

http://studentservices.southtexascollege.edu/finaid/other_assistance.html

http://studentservices.southtexascollege.edu/finaid/index.html

http://www.apta.org/HonorsandAwards/Scholarships/MinorityScholarship/

http://www.apta.org/CurrentStudents/ScholarshipsAwards/


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Student Standard 1065: COST OF EMERGENCY SERVICES IN OFF-CAMPUS Sept. 2015 EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCES

While in the program, students may participate in off campus lab activities, service

activities, field-trips, and external Practicum experiences. STC does not assume

responsibility for costs associated with emergency care required by students while

participating in off-campus activities. Students in the PTA Program are responsible for

all such costs.

Students enrolled in the PTA Program must meet Clinical Requirements, including proof

of Health and Accident Insurance, which must remain current throughout the Program.

STC makes available to all enrolled students health and accident insurance

coverage. Information may be obtained through the Cashier’s office.

Student Standard 1080: COURSE COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS Revised June

2012

Students must meet the following criteria for all didactic courses, in order to ensure competency prior to Practicum placement and progression into subsequent semesters:

• A final average of 75% or higher for the “Examination (Written) Component” of each PTHA course, regardless of the overall final course average.

• A final average of 75% or higher for the “Laboratory Component” of each PTHA course with a laboratory component, regardless of the overall final course average.

• 100% of lab skills presented in each course must be checked off. It is the students’ responsibility to ensure that they are checked off on every skill regardless of written examination average, lab exam average or final overall course grade.

• 100% of course assignments must be completed, regardless of written examination average, lab exam average or final overall course grade.


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Student Standard 1090: GRADING SCALE

The following Grading Scale will be utilized in all PTA courses.

A= 90 – 100 NOTE: Grades WILL NOT be rounded up

B= 80 – 89 (i.e. an 82.88 will not be rounded up to an 83) C= 75 – 79 75.0 is the MINIMUM passing score.

D= 66 – 74 F= 65 or below

In order to ensure competency prior to Practicum placement, students must demonstrate a final average of 75% or higher for the “Examination (Written) Component” of each PTHA course, regardless of the overall final course average. Students must also demonstrate a final average of 75% or higher for the “Laboratory Component” of each PTHA course with a laboratory component, regardless of the overall final course average. Students who fail to meet the minimum 75% average in either category/component will receive a maximum grade of “D” in the course, and will be ineligible to continue in the program until the course has been repeated successfully. Readmission into the program will be required. See NAH Readmission Procedure.

Final Course Grades will be available for review via STC Jagnet following the close of each semester. It is the student’s responsibility to verify his/her grades. Any concerns with respect to accuracy should be addressed immediately.

Student Standard 2000: EXAMINATION STANDARDS Revised July

2014

EXAMINATIONS, QUIZZES AND MAKE-UP EXAMINATIONS

No exams will be dropped. Students must take examinations at their scheduled time and date. NO MAKE UP examination will be given if the student does not notify the course instructor before the scheduled start time for the examination. Documentation must be submitted to the course instructor regarding and justifying the absence. Arrangements for make-up examinations must be made with the instructor before the student returns to the classroom. The format of the examination may differ from the original exam, i.e. an essay exam instead of multiple-choice. Grades for make-up exams will not exceed 92. In the case of a missed quiz, students may petition for a makeup. The student must be in good standing in academic performance, conduct and attendance. It is the student’s responsibility to request a make-up opportunity for any missed quizzes.

If a student scores below 75% on a written exam, it is the student’s responsibility to schedule a meeting with the instructor to identify areas of weakness and formulate a plan of action. This plan may require that students consult with the NAH Student Success Specialist, participate in mandatory tutoring sessions with program faculty, PTA lab assistant, and/or CLE staff. Tutoring sessions will be scheduled at the instructor’s convenience.


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Student Standard 2010: EXAMINATION PROCEDURES FOR A SECURE TESTING ENVIRONMENT Revised June 2012, July 2019

Written exam procedures are as follows:

• Cell phones are to be placed in a designated location at the front of the room (i.e. a basket, box, bag, podium).

• Students testing on treatment tables are to sit in staggered format. • Students will not be allowed to leave the room until they have completed

and turned in their exam. • Desks are to remain clear. All personal belongings are to be placed at the front

of the room. • The following items are to remain in student bags/backpacks at the front of the

room: o Calculators

o Recording devices

o Smartwatches

o Smartpens

o Photographic equipment o Laptops o Music players o Books o Study material o PDAs (personal digital assistants) o Purses o Wallets o Bags (e.g., plastic, paper) o Tissues not provided by the program o Any other product determined by the instructor to be a disturbance to

other testers or a threat to the security of the examination • Students are NOT to remove testing materials from the classroom. • Students are prohibited from communicating, publishing, reproducing, or

transmitting any part of a test, in any form or by any means, verbal or written, for any purpose.

• Students may not talk to each other during an exam. • Students may not refer to other student’s testing materials. • Noise reducing soft ear plugs may be used.

Failure to adhere to the above will be considered academic dishonesty and may result in a failing grade. The student will be reported for Disciplinary action. Any student found guilty of scholastic dishonesty is subject to dismissal from the PTA Program and is ineligible for readmission.


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Student Standard 2020: EXAMINATION REVIEW Revised June

2012

Program faculty will make every effort to grade all written exams and review results with the class as a whole during the next session. If a student believes there is an error in the grading of an item or question on a written exam, the student has the opportunity to request review of that item by utilizing the “Exam Item Challenge Form”. The form requires identification of the item, rationale as to why it should be reconsidered for credit, and the *resource/evidence supporting the rationale. All final decisions are at the discretion of the course instructor.

* Acceptable resources are textbooks, recommended reference books, instructor generated handouts, etc. Individual students’ notes taken during lecture, “Google” sources or “I” phone apps are not considered an acceptable resource.

NOTE: Due to time constraints, final written exams are exempt from this review process.

Student Standard 2030: LAB PRACTICAL REVIEW

Due to the extensive assessment process involved in the grading of Lab Practicals, program faculty will make every effort to have results available within one week of testing. Grades will be issued and feedback provided on an individual basis, typically in the order in which students tested. It is the student’s responsibility to insure timely acquisition of grades and feedback.


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Student Standard 2040: RE-EXAMINATION Revised July 2014, May 2015, July 2017, July

2018, June 2019

Students must demonstrate competency of at least 75% to pass all written tests and lab practicals. Students will not be given an opportunity to re-take failed written exams.

If a student is unable to pass a Lab Practical (LP) exam on the first attempt, they will automatically receive a “0” grade. The student will be allowed up to one retest per unit LP, not to exceed 50% of the LP exams available per course. The content/format of the re- examination may not be the same as the original exam. Should a student fail an LP retest, the actual grade is recorded and the student is placed on “probationary status” which requires remediation of deficiencies, and subsequent evidence of competency via * * faculty directed assessments. Any failing lab practical grade (after the retake limit has been reached) will be entered as a “0”.

If a student scores below 75% on a Final Lab Practical, they will automatically receive a “0” grade. The student may be allowed up to one Final LP retest if the testing limit has not been exceeded. The student will receive an “I” (incomplete) for the course and the student will be given the opportunity to participate in remediation and re-testing, prior to the start of the next semester. (Remediation is dependent upon faculty availability and may require participation over semester breaks and/or summer break.) The content/format of the re- examination may not be the same as the original exam. The maximum grade available on the final LP retest will be a 75%.

Should a student fail a Final LP retest and the actual grade drops him/her below the minimum 75% requirements, the student is ineligible to continue in the program. Refer to NAH Program Readmission Standard.

Should a student fail a final LP retest and the resulting LP average as well as final course grade remain above 75%, the student is placed on “probationary status” which requires remediation of deficiencies, and subsequent evidence of competency via faculty-directed assessments. If a student is unable to demonstrate required competency prior to the start of a scheduled Practicum, a maximum grade of “D” is issued and the student is ineligible to continue in the program. Refer to NAH Program Readmission Standard. If program scheduling does not permit opportunity for remediation and faculty-directed assessment prior to the Practicum I start date, a student may be considered for progression into Practicum I under Probationary Status, on a case by case basis. If failure of a final retest is not due to breach of safety, competency in such cases may be proven via satisfaction of specific criteria, assignments and/or activities to be completed while in the clinic setting, as established by the course instructor, PC and ACCE. If failure of a lab practical retest is due to breach of safety, students may not progress into Practicum I. A maximum grade of “D” is issued and the student is ineligible to continue in the program. Refer to NAH Program Readmission Standard. **Faculty directed assessments must require that the student perform the deficient skill safely and effectively a minimum of 3 times to show consistency and competency.


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Note: All lab skills presented in each course must be checked off for successful completion and progression within the program. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure that they are checked off on every skill regardless of exam grades. Should a student fail to check off on all required skills within a course, a maximum grade of “D” will be issued for the course, and the student is ineligible to continue in the program. Refer to NAH Program Readmission Standard.

Refer to Form I. Lab Practical (LP) Exam Flowchart for additional information regarding Lab Practical re-testing processes.

Student Standard 2050: LAB PRACTICAL June 2010, Revised July 2012

STUDENT PARTICIPATION

Students routinely participate in lab practical examinations by playing a patient and/or video-taping another student’s lab practical exam. Students are not to assist their peers by giving either written, verbal or gestural suggestions on the performance of any lab skills during a test. Students are not to discuss any aspect of their own lab practical or any lab practicals they may have witnessed until all students have been tested. This includes case scenarios, interventions or strategies used for treatment, as well as any feedback provided by the instructor. Failure to adhere to the above will be considered academic dishonesty and may result in a failing grade and/or grounds for dismissal from the PTA Program.


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Student Standard 2060: STUDENT RETENTION Revised June 2012, July 2018, June 2019

SEMESTER MEETINGS: To facilitate student retention, all PTA students are required to meet with the Program Chair or designee at least once per semester. This meeting is to discuss student’s academic performance, adherence to program standards and previously identified remediation/action plans, as well as attendance and professional behaviors. If necessary, an action plan is developed which may include lab assistant tutoring, learning strategy recommendations, and/or a referral to the NAH Counselor or Student Success Specialist.

LAB ASSISTANTS: The program utilizes a part time licensed PTA and DPT who serve as PTA Program Lab Assistants. The lab assistants’ primary responsibility is to monitor *Clinical Skills Practice Lab sessions and assist with mandatory skills check-offs. Individualized tutoring may be scheduled with the lab assistant, upon availability.

A/B LABS: Select PTA classes that include a significant number of skills will be divided between two separate labs (A and B). All students enrolled in a course will attend the same lecture; the class will then be divided in half for A/B labs. Limiting the number of students per lab session allows for sufficient space and availability of equipment for skills acquisition. A/B labs also encourage more personalized student attention, and offer faculty the ability to assess understanding and monitor progress on a more individualized basis. When not participating in a structured A/B lab, students are encouraged to utilize their “free” time for completion of assignments, peer check-offs, etc. while on campus.

Note: Although students may be registered/enrolled in a particular lab (A or B) at the beginning of a semester, students will be randomly assigned to either A or B lab on a weekly basis, throughout the semester.

*Clinical Skills Practice Lab is designed for active participation, i.e. hands-on psychomotor practice with a partner, skeleton, model, etc. The library, CLE, or common areas may be used for homework, research, and other forms of “passive” study (individual or in groups).

STUDENT MENTORS: All Level I PTA Program students will be assigned a Level II student mentor. The role of a mentor is to support and encourage new students to manage their own learning in order that they may maximize their potential, develop their skills, improve their performance, and ultimately graduate from the PTA Program. Mentors may share information about his or her own experience as a PTA student, strategies for learning and resource recommendations, as well as provide motivation, emotional support, and role modeling. Mentors may not share details related to examination questions and/or lab practical scenarios. Although designed to promote student success, mentors do not maintain any responsibility for mentee grades and/or ultimate performance. In order to serve as a Level II student mentor, students must meet established criteria related to availability and willingness to serve, a positive attitude toward learning; adequate performance in the classroom, laboratory, and clinic; and a high level of professionalism. Level II students may be nominated by a PTA Program faculty and/or may self-nominate. A final list of mentors will be established each academic year. Mentors will be matched with entering Level I students, and receive an orientation to the process. All mentors will receive ongoing faculty/staff support as needed to promote effectiveness in their role.


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Student Standard 2070: EXIT EXAM

The PTA program requires that all students pass the program’s Exit Exam in order to graduate. The Exit Exam is given during the final semester of the program. All students in the final semester will sit for the exam regardless of GPA or current good standing in the program. All students must receive a 75% or better on the exam to successfully complete program requirements. Any student, who receives below a 75% on the exam, must meet with the Program Chair for the purpose of developing a remediation plan, a study schedule and a re-test date. Following completion of the remediation plan, the student will be allowed to sit for the Exit Exam a second time. Re-takes will be scheduled during finals week of the current semester. Students who

are not successful by the 2nd attempt must petition in writing for re-testing. A waiting period and/or additional remediation will be determined following any petition

requesting opportunity to retest a 3rd time. Any student failing to meet the 75%

minimum requirement on the 3rd attempt must repeat the educational program and/or select content. Students may petition the Dean of Nursing and Allied Health for any exceptions to this standard.

NOTE: Students must present proof of completion of all remediation prior to sitting for any Exit Re-Test.

Student Standard 2080: PROGRESSION CRITERIA Revised July 2018, June

2019

In order to qualify for promotion to the next semester PTA Program students must satisfy the following:

• All “Program Advancement Criteria” as listed in the NAH Student Handbook (Section III Academic Standards)

• Successfully pass all didactic program courses with a minimum average of 75% for course average, written exam average, and lab practical exam average when applicable.

• Complete all required skills check-offs. • Complete all required course assignments.

• Meet Practicum Progression Criteria (Please refer to Practicum Progression Criteria).

• Meet required professionalism/professional behaviors standards.

• Continue to adhere to all established college and program policies, procedures and standards.




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Student Standard 2081: PTA PROGRAM READMISSION PROCESS July 2019

Eligible students who fail or withdraw from a PTA Program course may petition for re-entry at the Program level.

In order to be considered for readmission to the PTA Program, students must:

1) Complete an Exit Interview with the Program Chair at the time of withdrawal/dismissal. The Exit Interview must be completed prior to the next semester and is recommended to take place within one week of the time of failure or withdrawal. It is the student’s responsibility to make an appointment with the Program Chair for the Exit Interview. Students who stop showing up for class and/or have no communication with the Program Chair after failing/withdrawal forfeit their chance for readmission.

2) Submit a written request to petition for program re-entry. 3) Meet with the Program Chair, to review re-entry petition, determine eligibility,

identify barriers to success, engage in problem solving to address barriers, and initiate development of a formal action plan.

4) Enter into a Contractual Agreement for resolution of areas of concern. Recommendations given to the student will be documented and may include but are not limited to: remediation courses, log in study hours in the CLE, work with tutors/lab assistants, work or volunteer experience, life- style changes, etc. Any action taken by the student may enhance the student’s petition for re-entry. Requirements for re-entry will be documented and the student must comply. If compliance of the requirements is not achieved by the date specified on the contractual agreement, the student will not be considered.

5) Furnish proof of successful completion of the Contractual Agreement via a Readmission Portfolio, to the Program Chair, designee, and/or Program Readmissions committee, i.e. documentation, grades, skills/lab check-offs, course audits, etc. by the established date. Please refer to Standard 2082 PTA Program Readmission Portfolio Process, for guidelines regarding development of a remediation portfolio. Students who do not complete and provide evidence of prescribed learning contracts by the specified date are not eligible for readmission consideration.

The PTA Program Readmissions Committee will convene, review documentation submitted,

and make a decision regarding the student’s eligibility for readmission. Each petition will be reviewed on an individual basis to determine level of competitiveness against the new class; a maximum of 1 re-entry slot may be available for fall readmission. Readmission into/or at any other point in the curriculum may not be available if the class size is at capacity. The student

will receive a Notification letter of the Program Readmission Committee’s decision. The Readmission Committee will determine the best course of study to facilitate student

success, on a case-by-case basis. If a student’s petition is accepted, he/she will enter into a re-entry agreement which may include a probationary period and participation in ongoing activities. Re-entry status may also be contingent upon the student demonstrating required knowledge and skills as follows:


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A. Students who are out of the program for more than one semester or fail any PTA

technical course will be required to take re-entry examination(s) to assess the retention and competency of previously learned skills (clinical, laboratory and/or didactic). There is no charge for the examination. The re-entry examination will include the content for the courses successfully completed in the program. Re-entry examinations (written and/or lab) must be passed with a minimum score of 75%. If a student scores below 75% he/she will be required repeat (audit) the course and

must pass all theory and lab exams earning ≥ 75% to regain the skills needed to progress in the program.

B. A student who does not successfully complete the required competency assessments will not be allowed to continue in the program.

Conditions under which PTA Program readmission will not be considered:

A. Dismissal from the program due to scholastic dishonesty. B. Dismissal from the program due to unacceptable behavior or conduct (i.e. unsafe

practice, academic dishonesty, and/or unethical behavior, etc.) C. Dismissal from the program due to violation of the college code of conduct (i.e. drug

or alcohol abuse, theft, etc.) D. Excessive absences, tardies or failing professional behavior grade (including students

who stop showing up for class) E. Students who fail more than one course in a semester or withdraw with a failing grade

in more than one course. F. Students who do not have an Exit Interview at the time of withdrawal. G. Students who do not complete the readmission petition by the date specified in the

Exit Interview. In the event that the student is not eligible for re-entry, the student may petition for readmission to the Nursing and Allied Health Division Readmission Committee. Please refer to

the “Readmission Procedure” outlined in the STC NAH Division Student Handbook.


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Student Standard 2082: PTA PROGRAM READMISSION PORTFOLIO

May 2015, Revised 2019

*The following instructions on how to create your remediation portfolio are for reference purposes only. You may alter your required portfolio to meet your needs.*

What is a Portfolio?

A portfolio is a binder or book that shows off your work and abilities. It will serve as a tool that you develop that offers a picture of your experience, your education, your accomplishments, and your skills, as they relate to identified obstacles, areas of concern, and/or areas of weakness. It offers tangible proof of your abilities and your potential for success in the PTA Program.

Developing Your Portfolio:

1. Review the Contractual Agreement developed in coordination with your Program

Chair and/or designee, which includes identified obstacles to program success, areas of concern, and/or areas of weakness.

2. Develop a timeline for completion of recommended activities/courses.

3. Compile evidence of participation in remediation activities and any supporting documents.

4. Enter data into your portfolio.

The portfolio should include: 1. Table of Contents (for easy reference) 2. Summary of obstacles, weaknesses, etc. and related goals: A description of

what your identified areas of weakness are (such as work ethic, time management, skill performance areas, etc.) and specific activities/experiences you completed to address them.

Submissions may include: Paperwork: Reports, papers, studies, brochures, projects, presentations, etc.

Testimonials and Letters of Recommendations: A collection of any kudos you may have recently received–from clients, colleagues, past employers, professors, tutors, etc. may also be included.

Courses and Workshops: A description and proof of attendance at relevant courses, seminars, and workshops you've participated in and/or attended.

Test Results: Document relevant testing results (such as “learning inventory” test results).

Newspaper Clippings: Include articles and/or information you reviewed that is relevant to your areas of concern.

Organizing Your Portfolio

1. You should organize your portfolio in a professional three-ring binder.

2. Come up with an organizational system of categories to put your items together. Use tabs or dividers to separate the various categories.


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3. Every page should have a title, a concise caption, and artifact. Captions should

4. explain the process you went through and the resulting benefits, such as: "This is acourse I attended on Time Management. I identified my top 5 time wasters were…"Use the same type of action verbs you would in a résumé.

5. Photocopy full-page samples (such as articles) to a smaller size, if needed.

6. Make the layout and design consistent, and don't get overly decorative—keep it

clean and use lots of white space. 7. Once you have put together your portfolio, you should create a title page, table of

contents, and introduction. The introduction is your opportunity to tie together your portfolio contents and summarize your efforts.

Finishing Touches Have someone at the NAH Center for Learning Excellence (CLE) review and

critique your portfolio.


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Student Standard 2090: PINNING CEREMONY Revised June

2014

PTA program graduates are recognized with an annual pinning ceremony following the final semester in the program. The ceremony is a time when students are recognized for their academic and clinical achievements, and receive their PTA Program pin. The SPTA Club sponsors the PTA Pinning Ceremony. The graduating class determines theme, decorations, refreshments, etc. The SPTA Club raises funds throughout the two years to cover pinning ceremony expenses (see SPTA Club).

This pinning ceremony is a privilege limited to students of the PTA Program who have successfully completed all the necessary requirements. These include the college degree plan (“B” or better in Intro to PT; all other courses with a “C” or better) as well as program specific graduation requirements (passing the Exit Exam). Any student who has received an “I” in a Practicum experience, which requires repetition or remediation for completion, or who is unable to pass the Exit Exam within 2 attempts is not eligible to receive their pin, certificate of completion, or awards/recognition**. Any student falling under these circumstances will be issued their pin upon successful completion of requirements.

** Students lacking degree plan requirements may still be eligible to participate fully in the STC Commencement Exercises.

Student Standard 2100: ATTENDANCE Revised June 2012, June 2013, June

2014, June 2019

Classroom attendance is expected of all students. During long fall and spring semester,

students will be allowed 3 absences. A 4th absence will result in the student being dropped from the class. During mini-mester courses or summer sessions, students will

be allowed 2 absences. A 3rd absence will result in the student being dropped from the class. The student will be ineligible to continue in the program until the course has been repeated successfully. Readmission into the program will be required. See NAH Readmission Procedure.

Refer to the NAH Division Handbook for additional Attendance information. Note: Absences that are not communicated appropriately will be considered a breach of the standard, and will negatively impact the students’ professionalism grade.


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Student Standard 2110: PUNCTUALITY

Punctuality is of utmost importance both in the classroom and in the clinic. Class and clinic will begin at the designated time and the student is expected to be present for the full length of each session/day. Extenuating circumstances, which put the student in a position of being tardy, absent, or having to leave early, must be reported to the instructor of that particular course and Program Chair.

Students need to set their watch to the time on the clock located in the physical therapy gym, room 306. All physical therapy program faculty operate on the same time so class will begin promptly at the designated start time as per the gym clock.

Three (3) tardies, past class start time (initial class or following a break) will count as one (1) absence. Likewise, three (3) episodes of leaving class early (prior to instructor dismissal) will be considered one (1) absence.

Refer to the Clinical Attendance for additional attendance and punctuality information.

Student Standard 2120: CRITICAL THINKING Revised June 2012

The development of critical thinking skills is an important goal of the STC PTA Program and is considered a component of professionalism. All STC PTA Program courses incorporate problem based learning via the use of instructional methods and materials that simulate what a student might encounter in actual clinical practice. Written Exams and Lab Practicals are then utilized to assess the presence of appropriate clinical decision making, which provides evidence of synthesis of curricular content. Student’s critical thinking abilities will be evaluated via application activities utilizing a variety of contextual formats, i.e. clinical case studies, scenarios, role playing, demonstration, and the use of models, illustrations, etc. Resources used in the evaluation process may be similar to but not necessarily those utilized, practiced and/or presented in class/lab.


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Student Standard 2130: LAB SKILLS CHECK-OFFS Revised July 2017

Lab Skills Check-Offs serve as one of the program methods for measuring and determining competency in the application of data collection and intervention skills. After students receive instruction in the classroom and lab, they are required to practice select procedures with peers and faculty. To facilitate achievement of skill competence, extensive laboratory hours are incorporated into the program schedule via: instructional lab, practice lab, and open lab hours. Program faculty identifies which skills within their course require *instructor/lab assistant check-off vs. peer check off based on the nature of the skill and its practical application in the clinic. Students are required to practice and document activities related to skill acquisition, using Skill Check-Off Sheets which are included as an attachment to laboratory course syllabi. Skill Check-Off Sheets may include a list of student expectations that must be met in order to be approved on that skill.

Students will be afforded up to 3 opportunities to complete instructor/lab assistant check-offs on required individual lab skills, in preparation for formal Lab Practical (LP) testing. If a student is unable to check-off in 3 attempts, he/she will be ineligible to participate in the first Lab Practical test as scheduled for the course. As such, he/she will automatically receive a “0” grade (first attempt) and will be added to the retest schedule, pending remediation and retesting. The maximum grade available on a retest is a 75%.

Note: All lab skills presented in each course must be checked off for successful completion and progression within the program. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure that they are checked off on every skill regardless of examination grades. Should a student fail to check off on all required lab skills within a course, a maximum grade of “D” will be issued for the course, and the student is ineligible to continue in the program. Refer to NAH Program Readmission Procedure.

Students who consistently require more than two attempts for successful completion of faculty/lab assistant check-offs may be required to participate in tutoring/remediation.

Student Standard 2140: SELF ASSESSMENT Revised June 2012

A student’s ability to effectively self-assess his/her performance is crucial to skill mastery, and indicates a commitment to learning. Students will be periodically required to self- assess lab practical performance. In the self-assessment process, students are expected to utilize appropriate materials such as textbooks, lab manuals, course handouts, etc. for an effective and realistic identification of strengths and weaknesses/errors. Grades/points may be awarded for self-assessment activities at the instructor’s discretion.


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Student Standard 2150: ASSIGNMENTS

One’s efficiency can affect costs to consumers; therefore, time management and organization skills will be reinforced throughout the curriculum. All assignments are to be completed and turned in at the beginning of the class period on the designateddue date.

Any late assignments may be reduced up to 10 points per class day late. Assignments due during an appropriately communicated absence will not be considered late until the student returns to the next class session. As each assignment is designed toward students meeting specific professional competencies, it is the student’s responsibility to submit all required assignments in order to pass the course.

Student Standard 2160: CELL PHONES & ELECTRONIC MEDIA (CLASSROOM) Revised June 2014, June 2019

Students are expected to respect the learning environment of the classroom. As such, texting, emailing, use of any means of social media, and/or talking on cell phones is not permitted during class and laboratory sessions. Cell phones must be placed in the “OFF/Silent” mode during classroom/lab activities, unless prior arrangements are made with the individual instructor. “Vibrate” mode, in which the vibrating sound can interrupt the classroom, is not acceptable. Students are required to store cell phones in backpacks or purses during any class/lab activity, unless cell phone use is approved for completion of in-class activity/assignment. Individual requests for exceptions to this classroom standard will be handled on a case-by-case basis, but not automatically granted. Emergency messages may be received during regular college hours via the program secretary and/or after hours via voice mail.

Approval from individual course instructors is required prior to use of “Smart pens” during ANY classroom activities.

The use of personal computers or electronic tablets/e-readers in the classroom is permitted at the instructor’s discretion. Use of such media is restricted to course related content/sites. Students may also utilize electronic textbooks and learning resources.

Students must disable computer/tablet/e-reader notifications for social media/messaging applications during class time. Individual course instructors reserve the right to monitor computer activity during class/lab time.

I- phones are not considered an acceptable electronic device for classroom use.

Please refer to the NAH Division Handbook for the related Social Media Standard.


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Student Standard 2161: AUDIO/VIDEO TAPING CLASS LECTURES, PRESENTATIONS OR EVENTS June 2014, Revised July 2018, Revised June 2019

Students who audio/video tape any portion of a class or program activity for study purposes, do not have permission to reproduce or post the information on any social media, You Tube, or other public or private forum that would infringe on the privacy rights of others represented in the audio/video recording. The tape is to be used exclusively for private study and is not to be shared or sold to others.

Student taping and/or photographing is strictly prohibited during quizzes, exams, lab practicals, and discussion/review following an examination or quiz; doing so is considered Academic Dishonesty.

Student Standard 2162: PHOTOGRAPHING AND VIDEOTAPING STUDENTS June 2014, July 2018

LAB PRACTICAL VIDEOS: Videotaping of select laboratory practical examinations is

required for instructional purposes, to facilitate self-assessment, and for grading and

feedback of student performance. Such videos are considered examination content

and are therefore not released to students and/or the public. Students are informed of

lab practical videotaping in individual course syllabi.

MEDIA FOR OTHER PURPOSES: During the course of the PTA program, there will also be

occasion for photographs/videos to be taken of students which may be used or

reproduced in print or electronic format by STC and/or the PTA Program with or without

identifying names. Such media may be utilized for lawful purposes such as College or

PTA program instruction/education, advertising, publications, illustrations and Web

content.

SOCIAL MEDIA: Under the direction and supervision of the PTA Program Chair or

designee, and in collaboration with SPTA Club Social Media Relations Officers, the

Program utilizes social media methods such as Facebook and Instagram to inform the

community of program sponsored student events, provide education on PTA Program

activities and the role of the PTA, and promote public relations between the Program

and community. All photographs and/or videos must be approved by the PTA Program

Chair or designee. No student may post PTA Program related photographs and/or

videos on their personal social media pages.

Students will provide authorization for the release of photographs and/or video for purposes other than examination. Students have the right to rescind the release of photographs and/or video for purposes other than examination in writing at any time.


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Student Standard 2170: LABORATORY PARTICIPATION AND SAFETY Revised June 2014, May 2015

In order to achieve competence with various physical therapy data collection and intervention skills, all PTA students will be required to participate in simulated lab settings as clients/patients and student PTAs under the supervision of program faculty. Throughout the program, students will receive comprehensive information on safety related to program equipment, material and activities relative to each individual course. Indications, contraindications, precautions, physiological effects, potential risks and the application of various physical therapy data collection and intervention skills common to the practice of physical therapy will also be reviewed. Students will take turns role-playing the student PTA and the client/patient. All students will participate in select activities in physical therapy data collection skills and interventions, which involve physical activity, the use of massage, heat, cold, electricity, traction, and all forms of therapeutic exercise. Informed consent to participate must be appropriately documented upon entry to the PTA program.

All measures shall be taken to protect the health and welfare of all students and faculty participating in laboratory sessions. Students are responsible for disclosing any medical condition(s) that they are aware of or for which they have sought a physician’s care. Likewise, students are expected to disclose if they are currently receiving physical therapy or occupational therapy treatments for a musculoskeletal condition. Known medical conditions of individual students will remain confidential unless the information is voluntarily disclosed to the class by the student.

All PTA students have the right to reasonable accommodations to allow full participation in laboratory activities. Students also have the right to be treated in a dignified manner while maintaining student’s modesty, confidentiality, and privacy within the laboratory setting at all times. All PTA students have the right to defer participation in select laboratory activities in the event that the student presents with a medical condition that would predispose them to negative effects (i.e. pregnancy, post-surgery, acute illness). Proof of documentation of the medical condition by a Texas licensed physician and approval by the instructor is required. Students also have the right to terminate treatment applications received during laboratory sessions should they experience negative effects.

During all laboratory sessions, students are expected to adhere to the laboratory dress code and to follow program safety standards with respect to care of self, care of environment, and care of clients as outlined in the Nursing and Allied Health Division Safe Clinical Practice Standard. Faculty supervision or approval is required for electrical modality use in all labs.

On an annual basis, an outside company will inspect and calibrate program electrical equipment to insure safety. The faculty will monitor the status and safety of all equipment used in the program. If a student becomes aware that a piece of equipment is faulty or damaged, he/she is expected to notify the instructor and/or lab assistant in order for the equipment to be red-tagged with a “do not use.” All relevant equipment operating instructions and copies of calibration reports may be found in the Equipment Notebook kept in the PTA Gym storeroom (Rm #307A)


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Student Standard 2180: SAFETY PROCEDURES (MSDS) Revised June 2014

The PTA Program maintains Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) on all chemical agents and solutions used in the course of study. Faculty will review the content found in the MSDS notebooks with students, during orientation and prior to the utilization of specific agent/solutions. These notebooks are located in the Hydro room (Rm. #305) and ADL

kitchen (Rm. #302) on the 3rd floor.

The MSDS information includes:

Common and chemical name of any ingredient found in a concentrationgreater than 1% that poses a health hazard

Health hazards and routes of bodily entry of hazardous materials Safe use and handling instructions Procedures for cleaning up a spill or leak Proper emergency first aid Date of preparation, name, address, and telephone number of

whoever is responsible for preparing and distributing the MSDS

MSDS notebooks will be reviewed annually for accuracy.

Student Standard 2182: BREACH OF SAFETY/AUTOMATIC FAILURE June 2014

The Program at South Texas College is committed to progress into clinic those students who have demonstrated safe, competent performance on lab practical examinations. During lab practical performance, should a student perform simulated treatment in an unsafe manner in which the simulated patient’s or the SPTAs safety is of concern, the maximum grade a student can earn will be 74% (D), resulting in automatic failure of the laboratory examination due to a breach of safety.

In an effort to maintain a high standard of safety, and be fair to students, the following

are considered reasons for automatic failure. While comprehensive, this list is not all

inclusive. Additional scenarios will be assessed on a case by case basis.

Failure to:

• Lock the wheelchair or other device

• Secure the patient in a transfer device (i.e. sliding board, Hoyer lift, etc.)

• Maintain weight bearing status

• Maintain precautions for the diagnosis (i.e. THR precautions, cardiac, etc.)

• Recognize indications, contraindications, and precautions to PT treatment

• Check machinery/ equipment for broken parts, etc. prior to use

• Maintain prescribed ROM (i.e. moves beyond the end of safe/ pain-free range)

Failure to provide treatment as indicated in simulated POC (developed by the PT):

• Treatment to the incorrect body part (i.e. right vs left, etc.)

• Adding any treatment or interventions not included in the simulated POC

Refer to PTA Student Standard 2040 Re-Examination for full explanation of lab


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practical retest procedure.

Student Standard 2190: STUDENT PTA (SPTA) CLUB Revised June 2012, June 2014. Sept. 2014, July 2018

The Student PTA Club is a service organization comprised of students in the PTA program. The goal of the organization is to promote networking and personal growth opportunities, encourage involvement, and develop students as active participants in their professional organization as well as contributing members of society. Members will promote the profession of physical therapy through membership in the APTA, and participation in local, state, and/or national PT related meetings, conferences or activities. They will foster social responsibility via service to the local community and participation in community events.

Members of every incoming class will join and participate in the existing Club regardless of whether or not they hold an officer position. Mrs. Diana Hernandez, PTA Program Chair or a designee will serve as the faculty sponsor for the SPTA Club. In consultation with faculty sponsors, elected officers lead the organization in service activities, fund raising, social events to benefit collaborative efforts among students, and other activities deemed appropriate by the organization.

Student Club Officers are selected to act as spokespersons for the students’ respective classes. Club Officers are also responsible for maintaining communication between the students and the PTA Faculty or College staff. Selection for a one-year term will be by majority vote of the class. If an officer is unable to complete the one-year term, an election will be held for a replacement to serve the remaining portion of the term.

*Student Club Officers are nominated and elected by their fellow classmembers for the following positions:

• President – Preside over meetings, lead programming, plan strategy and set goals,select committees and make special appointments. Act as a liaison between cohortstudents and PTA Program faculty/staff members and other STC students.

• Vice President – Support the president, support officers, oversee committees.

• Secretary – Take club meeting minutes, maintain records, keep club materialsorganized, answer club correspondence, and send thank-you notes.

• Treasurer – Control the collection and disbursement of club’s money, coordinate withprogram secretary, STC cashier and/or the business office.

• 2 Historians –Take pictures throughout the year to record class activities, meetingsand events. Create media releases for club activities and service projects. Manageand update the PTA display case. Create slide-show for New Student Orientation andend of year Pinning Ceremony.

• Community Liaison – Act as a liaison between PTA Program club and community toidentify and plan service activities and/or projects. Create “PTA On The Move”announcements to document and share program activities.

• Social Media Relations Officer (SMRO) - Level I and II SMRO’s will collaborate to utilizeand maintain social media (i.e. Facebook and Instagram) to promote PTA programevents and activities under the direction of an assigned faculty/staff member.


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Elections will be held annually in the first month of the fall semester (year 1 and year 2). The SPTA Club functions according to the College’s policies and procedures for College clubs, therefore all club activities and transactions must be approved by the Faculty

Sponsor and the student activities office as needed. Club members participate in various community involvement activities as well as fundraising activities.

Fund raising activities are determined and organized by the Club and require college approval (Student Activities Dept.). Funds generated by the Club are typically used for student membership in the American Physical Therapy Association, PTA MACS purchases for Level I students, travel expenses for Level II students to attend one annual student conclave/PT conference, and pinning ceremony expenses. The Faculty Sponsor or Program Chair must approve travel and Pinning Ceremony budgets. Funds may also be used for other student related activities or expenses as the Club deems fit and determines via majority vote. The College must approve said expenditures. Any monies in excess of the current year expenses will be donated to the subsequent class’ Club account (for use by the upcoming senior class). Membership and active participation in the SPTA Club is expected of all students.

* PLEASE NOTE: As failure of a Practicum course necessitates a course repeat, probationary status, and delayed graduation, students who fail a Practicum course are not eligible to serve as an officer with their original cohort class. Elections in such cases will be held as needed.

Student Standard 2195: SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY Aug. 2015

Consistent with the expectations of CAPTE and the Physical Therapy Profession, the PTA program emphasizes development of social responsibility in students so that upon graduation students demonstrate an awareness of social responsibility, citizenship, and advocacy, including participation in community and service organizations and activities. The NAH Division, PTA Program, and/or SPTA Club identify, organize, or sponsor several service and community projects and volunteer opportunities for students to participate in throughout the program. PTA students are expected to complete 5 service-oriented volunteer hours during each semester of the PTA program. These hours may be obtained through activities and projects facilitated by the NAH Division, PTA Program, and/or SPTA Club; individual students may also identify and propose new service opportunities for SPTA Club members, related to their community, church, or other service/volunteer work. While students are encouraged to volunteer more than 5 hours, a minimum of 5 hours must be documented and submitted to the PTA Program Chair using the Community Service Log (Form E) as part of the requirements of the student’s Professional Behaviors grade. Service Logs are to be scanned and submitted along with Professional Behaviors Self-Assessment Forms at the close of each semester. Students should obtain approval for activities not sponsored by the PTA Program and/or SPTA Club to ensure they are appropriate and permissible to include for the required hours for social responsibility.


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Student Standard 2200: CLASSROOM DRESS CODE Revised July 2015, June 2016, June 2019

Purpose: Students who enter a health profession must look and act professional. The Physical Therapist Assistant Program utilizes a Classroom Dress Code to adapt the student to life as a healthcare professional. Both women and men are required to follow the dress code when on campus and during ALL program related activities as follows:

General Appearance Clothing:

• CLASSROOM TOPS:

• Embroidered polo: A solid color *polo-style/golf shirt with collar and long or short sleeves, tucked in pant waistband, embroidered with the approved STC PTA logo. (no other logos/emblems allowed on polo, i.e. “Nike”, “Under Armour”, “Reebok”, etc.) Shirt must be at least partially buttoned.

• Screen printed T-shirt: A solid color, loose-fitting, crew neck T-shirt (long or short sleeved) screen-printed with the approved STC PTA Program logo, tucked in pant waistband.

Shirts should fit properly, i.e. not tight, low cut or revealing. Midriff should not be exposed (*front or back) whether in a sitting, standing or stooping position. Shirts should not have color variations, stripes and/or patterns, tearing, frays, or other agency/facility/job site logos.

* Big & Tall Sizing: If an individual student knows he/she requires a longer than average size to keep his/her midriff covered, they must make arrangements to independently purchase extra-long shirts and submit to approved vendor for screen printing and/or embroidering.

• CLASSROOM BOTTOMS: • Neat, properly fitting, waisted, full-length pants (no pants that are

excessively loose, baggy, low-rise, torn, acid washed, or that have fraying along pockets, hems or anywhere else). Pants must be of a solid neutral color. Acceptable colors include black, blue, gray, brown or khaki. Pants need to be loose enough and have a high enough fit at the waist to allow for lifting and squatting activities without compromising movement and/or exposing the student (squat rule). A belt is to be worn with pants that have belt loops. Pants should be of appropriate length and/or properly hemmed to ensure the length does not extend past the shoe heel. The classroom dress code does not allow the following: carpenter style pants, jeans or denim pants of any color, those with drawstrings or elastic at the hem, Capri’s, wind/exercise/warm-up/yoga, or scrub pants.

• Walking (“Dockers” style) shorts may be worn to class, however the general appearance must be clean, neat and professionally acceptable (i.e. no shorter than 4 inches above the knee; no cut-offs. Shorts should not be baggy, extremely long (past the knee), carpenter style, or have drawstrings or elastic at the hem). Color must be solid and neutral as listed above. A belt is to be worn with shorts that have belt loops.

• Appropriate foundation garments should be worn so as to maintain


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professional demeanor and should not be visible either through or outside of clothing.

• Clothing is to be neat, clean and pressed/ironed.

Footwear:

• Non-slip, low heeled and closed toe shoes are required. • Neutral colored casual shoes may be worn. • Athletic low-top shoes/sneakers may be worn if in good condition. • Shoes and laces should be well maintained and kept tied.

• Socks or stockings must be worn with shoes. • Cowboy boots, hiking style boots, Toe sneakers/shoes, high heels, flip-flops,

sandals, canvas style sneakers such as “Converse” or “KEDS”; slip-on styles such as “VANS”, “BOBS”, or “TOMS” or “CROCS”; and high-top/basketball

style athletic shoes are not allowed. Accessories:

• No more than one ring per hand. • No more than one earring per ear. Earrings must be standard earlobe

piercing. Plugs are not allowed. • No dangling earrings, necklaces, watches, or bracelets.

• A well-fitting watch with a second hand must be worn. Digital watches are not permitted unless they have an analog clock with a second hand, as a screen option.

• No other body jewelry/piercing permitted.

• ALL visible tattoos are to remain covered.

• Caps, visors, and sunglasses are not allowed.

Miscellaneous:

• All grooming should take place at home. • STC photo ID is to be worn above the waist while on campus.

• Hair must be clean, well groomed, and neatly pulled back (jaw type clips are not allowed in the classroom). Hair should be pulled back away from the face and out of the eyes with use of barrettes/clips and/or headbands as needed, and off the shoulders in a neatly styled ponytail, braid, or bun. If a hairstyle with bangs is worn, bangs must either be secured or must be short enough in length so as not to obscure or fall into the eyes. Unnatural hair colors or extreme styles are not permitted.

• Hair barrettes/clips and headbands used to secure hair should be conservative and of a color compatible to dress or hair color. Ribbons, scarves, caps, hats, beanies, “do rags”, and/or bandannas are not acceptable. Exceptions may be made for religious headgear.

• Males are expected to be clean-shaven on a daily basis. If males have a beard, mustache and/or goatee, they must be neatly trimmed close to the face.

• Good oral hygiene and clean bodies, free of odor is essential. • Cosmetics should be applied discreetly. • Perfume, cologne, or odor due to smoking is not acceptable.

• Fingernails must be clean, neatly rounded and are not to exceed the tip of the finger in length.

• If desired fingernails may be freshly polished with clear or neutral colored polish only. • Absolutely no acrylic or artificial nails permitted.


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• Outerwear such as sweaters and jackets worn in the classroom are to be of asolid, neutral color, free of logos/prints, and reflect a professional demeanor. Ifa pullover sweater is worn, it must be with a collared shirt underneath. Hoodedpullover sweatshirts/“hoodies” are not allowed in the classroom.

NOTE: A specified uniform color STC PTA Program logo shirt and khaki pants (unless instructed otherwise) are to be worn during all program related off-campus activities and during guest lectures.

STC PTA Program logo shirts are not to be worn as personal attire in public. Discretion should likewise be used when wearing a uniform shirt during lunch and/or after class.

PLEASE NOTE: As representatives of the STC PTA Program as well as the profession of physical therapy, students are expected to maintain a professional appearance and adhere to the dress code during all program related activities and AT ALL TIMES WHEN ON CAMPUS, including before/after class; while in the library, CLE, and computer lab; and during class/lab breaks, open lab sessions, meetings, etc. As such, shirts are to remain tucked in, tattoos covered, piercings removed; no caps, visors, sunglasses, etc. unless otherwise stated by the course instructor.

Failure to adhere to the established Dress Code is considered noncompliant and unprofessional behavior and will impact a student’s professional behavior grade. Students out of dress code may be dismissed from class until compliance is established. This will result in a documented absence for that day.

Students are responsible for maintaining the appearance of lab and classroom uniform shirts.

Shirts that become stained, damaged or have peeling/fraying logos are to be replaced.


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Student Standard 2210: LABORATORY DRESS CODE Revised June 2013, July 2015, June

2016, July 2017, June 2019

Students are required to follow a Laboratory Dress Code during all laboratory sessions to allow for full participation and safety. Laboratory uniform includes:

• LABORATORY TOPS:

• Screen printed T-shirt: A solid color, loose fitting, crew necked short-sleeved T-shirt screen-printed with the approved STC PTA Program logo. T-shirts should fit properly, i.e. not tight, or revealing and/or not excessively long so as to extend beyond the length of shorts. Midriff should not be exposed (*front or back) whether in a sitting, standing or stooping position. Shirts should not have color variations, stripes and/or patterns, tearing, frays, or other agency/facility/job site logos. (Approved therapy related T-shirts from PT & OT campus shirt sales are also acceptable).

* Big & Tall Sizing: If an individual student knows he/she requires a longer than average size to keep his/her midriff covered, they must make arrangements to independently purchase extra-long shirts and submit to approved vendor for screen printing and/or embroidering.

• Women are required to have a bathing suit top which opens at the neck and back, available as needed for specific labs, to allow for exposure and palpation Sports bras are not allowed during labs that require exposure the upper extremities, back, neck, or trunk.

• LABORATORY BOTTOMS:

• Black or grey solid color BCG Mesh Shorts with elastic waistband (purchase from Academy Sports & Outdoors).

• Women: BCG Women’s 6 inch Mesh Basketball Short or Women’s Hoop Mesh Shorty Short Solid colored

• Men: BCG Men’s Mesh Basketball Shorts • Shorts should be mid-thigh in length; they must be loose enough to

allow for palpation and effective exposure/treatment of the hip region.

• When lower extremity exposure is not required, solid black or grey biker shorts which extend no further than mid-thigh may be worn underneath required athletic shorts.

• When lower extremity exposure is not required, students may wear solid black or grey, full-length athletic and/or yoga style pants (with open/boot-bottom) in lieu of required athletic shorts. Exercise/ compression tights, skorts, leggings and capris are not acceptable.

• The use of spandex biker shorts, boxer briefs and/or boxer shorts underneath required athletic shorts is not allowed during labs requiring exposure of the lower extremities.

• Unless otherwise indicated, students are required to wear closed toe, non-skid, low- heeled shoes, and socks.

• Appropriate foundation garments should be worn so as to maintain professional demeanor and should not be visible either through or outside of clothing.

• Students’ personal hospital gowns (from lab kit) should be readily available during lab sessions.


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All students MUST be prepared for laboratory sessions at ALL times. Any student not

prepared with their personal proper lab attire will be required to don a patient gown and/or program owned lab attire for participation in planned lab activities. Students are expected to be ready in appropriate lab attire for lab classes (refer to course schedules) and/or have lab attire readily available on their person or in their locker. Securable lockers and changing space are available in the PTA gym. Failure to arrive prepared will result in the student being tardy. Refer to “Punctuality”.


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Student Standard 2220: LAUNDRY ROOM Revised June

2012

The PTA Program maintains a Hydro/Laundry Room (Rm. #305) equipped with a washer and dryer for laundering program linens. The laundry room is restricted to PTA and OTA student/faculty use. A laundry schedule will be established and posted by the Lab Assistant at the beginning of each semester. The Lab Assistant will also instruct PTA students in appropriate folding and storage (linen carts in Gym) of program related linens. All Level I students will be assigned weekly laundry rotations, typically in pairs, during which time they will be responsible for washing, drying, folding, and restocking of blue PTA linens, as well as for maintaining a clean laundry room environment. Students are responsible for following posted schedules and insuring availability of clean linens for laboratory sessions as needed.

Student Standard 2230: FACILITY TELEPHONES

Faculty/staff office telephones are not to be used for students’ personal calls. The NAH Campus is equipped with black facility phones on every floor. These phones are available for emergency student use. All exceptions for the use of office telephones must be cleared with faculty/staff.

Student Standard 2240: STUDENT EMPLOYMENT Revised June 2012, May

2015, July 2019

The PTA Program recognizes that students may work part-time while completing their PTA degree. Students must realize that this takes away from valuable study time and may have a detrimental effect on the grades that a student earns.

If a PTA student is employed in a physical therapy setting, the student must function as a PT Tech/Aide and NOT as a student PTA. Students will be learning and practicing lab skills under faculty supervision. Under no circumstances are learned PT skills to be applied to the general public. As per the Texas Physical Therapy Practice Act, PT Techs may only provide “routine” care as directed by the supervising PT or PTA (i.e. the student is not to document, make clinical decisions, perform assessment and measurements, etc.). Once a student has passed program courses, he/she will only be permitted to apply learned skills outside of the classroom while under a clinical instructor’s supervision during practicum experiences.

NOTE: Students will be required to complete the Clinical Conflict of Interest Form (Form G) in order to disclose any existing relationship with area facilities and/or clinicians, scholarships, sponsorships, family connections, contract agreements to hire upon graduation, etc. and ensure no conflict of interest occurs with student placements during Practicum courses.


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Student Standard 2250: PTA LICENSURE EXAM PROCESS & FEES July 2017

Upon successful completion of the PTA Program, graduates must apply for a PTA license by examination. Graduates are responsible for completing the following steps to register and pay for the exam according to individual State Board application timelines:

Submit Physical Therapist Assistant Online Application Submit official school transcripts STC PTA Program Chair will submit a Letter of Completion Submit a recent 2×2 photograph per Board specifications Register to take the national exam with the Federation of State Boards of Physical

Therapy (FSBPT) Take the online, open-book Jurisprudence Assessment Module Submit all necessary fees per stated deadlines

As of 2019, the Fees for obtaining a PTA License in Texas are as follows:

FSBPT: $533.00 (for authorization to take PTA license exam) Texas PT Board 125.00 (for license app) Prometrics: 70.00 (sitting fee to take exam)_ IdentGo (fingerprinting) 38.25

TOTAL: $766.25 + 60.00 (paid to the Board if want a temporary PTA License)

Grand Total: $ 826.25 The purchase and use of a Licensure Exam/Board Review Manual or Program is also recommended. The average cost is approximately $70.00 Additional information regarding the steps and deadlines to apply for Texas PTA Licensure may be found on the Executive Council of PT and OT Examiners website at: www.ptot.texas.gov and on the FSBPT website at: www.fsbpt.org Once the Board has received a graduate’s full application, it will notify the FSBPT that he/she is eligible to take the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for PTAs. The FSBPT will send the graduate an Authorization to Test (ATT) letter with instructions on scheduling the exam with Prometric. Individuals can schedule to take the exam at the Prometric center located in McAllen, or at any other Prometric testing center in the state on one of the specified testing dates. Currently, the PTA Licensure Exam is offered 4 times per year in the following months:

January April July October

The NPTE-PTA is a 200-question exam. FSBPT will send individual exam results to the Texas Board within one week of exam completion. A score of 600 or higher is required to pass and obtain a Texas physical therapist assistant license from the Texas Board of PT Examiners.

http://www.ptot.texas.gov/

http://www.fsbpt.org/


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Student Standard 2260: PTA CONTINUING COMPETENCY & LICENSURE RENEWAL July

2017 Once licensure is obtained, a PTA must renew his/her license to practice every two years, by the end of their birth month. Texas renewal requires:

Completion of a minimum of 20 continuing competency units (CCU’s) which may be obtained by taking courses and/or participating in activities approved by the Texas Physical Therapy Association.

Take the online, open-book Texas Jurisprudence Assessment Module (TX JAM) and earn a passing score of 80% or better. The TX JAM renewal fee is $48.00

Pay the required renewal fee. As of 2019, the renewal fee in Texas is $184.


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Student Clinical Standards



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Student Standard 4000: CLINICAL DRESS CODE Revised June 2014, July 2019

All STC PTA students represent the College and the profession of physical therapy. Students are required to represent themselves in a professional manner at all times in the clinic setting. In an effort to maintain consistency for all students, the following Clinic Dress Code Standard is adopted:

General Appearance Clothing

• Shirts/blouses, tucked in pant waistband. Shirt should fit properly, i.e. not tight, low cut or revealing. Midriff should not be exposed (front or back) whether in a sitting, standing or stooping position. Shirts/blouses should not have color variations, tearing, and frays.

• Pants must be neat, properly fitting, and sit at or just below the waist (no excessively loose, low- riding, hipster, torn, or frayed hems). Jeans are not allowed. Pants must be of a solid neutral color such as black, blue, brown or khaki. Pants need to be loose enough to allow for lifting and squatting activities without compromising movement and/or exposing the student. A belt is to be worn with pants that have belt loops. Pants should be of appropriate length and/or be properly hemmed to ensure the length does not extend past the shoe heel. Carpenter, Capri, or yoga style pants are not allowed.

• If the clinic site requires a tie, male PTA students must comply.

• If the clinic site requires a lab coat or scrubs, all PTA students must comply. Lab coats or scrubs are to be neat, clean and pressed at all times.

• Appropriate foundation garments should be worn so as to maintain professional demeanor and should not be visible either through or outside of clothing.

• Clothing is to be neat, clean and pressed/ironed.

Footwear

• Non-slip, low heeled and closed shoes are required.

• Neutral colored casual shoes may be worn.

• Athletic shoes/sneakers may be worn if in good condition.

• Socks or stockings must be worn with shoes.

Accessories

• No more than one ring per hand.

• No more than one earring per ear. Earrings must be standard earlobe piercing. Plugs are not allowed.

• No dangling earrings, necklaces, watches, or bracelets.

• A well-fitting watch with a second hand must be worn. Digital watches are not permitted.

• No other body jewelry/piercing permitted. • ALL visible tattoos are to remain covered.


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Miscellaneous

• Students are required to wear their nametags to clinic every day.

• Hair must be clean and well groomed, neatly pulled back (jaw type clips are not allowed in the clinic). Hair should be pulled back away from the face, out of the eyes, and off the shoulders. If a hairstyle with bangs is worn, bangs must either be secured or must be short enough in length so as not to obscure or fall into the eyes. Unnatural colors or extreme styles are not permitted.

• Males must be clean-shaven. If males have a beard, mustache and/or goatee, they must be neatly trimmed close to the face.

• Good oral hygiene and clean bodies, free of odor is essential. • Cosmetics should be applied discreetly. • Heavy perfume, cologne, or odor due to smoking is not acceptable.

• Fingernails must be clean, neatly rounded and are not to exceed the tip of the finger in length.

• If desired fingernails may be freshly polished with clear or neutral colored polish only. • Absolutely no acrylic or artificial nails permitted.

The following are considered NOT acceptable in the clinic:

• Cowboy boots, hiking style boots, Toe sneakers/shoes, sandals, flip-flops, high heels, “Converse” style sneakers, “VANS” style slip-ons, or “CROC” style shoes

• Skirts or dresses

• T-shirts or tank tops (shoulder straps of a sleeveless shirt must measure 3 inches or wider)

• Caps or visors • Sunglasses • Jeans of any color (Regardless of “Blue Jean Friday” allowed in the clinic)

• Shorts for both men and ladies (Regardless of “Sports Dress” in the clinic)

• Absolutely no gum chewing


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Student Standard 4010: ASSESSMENT OF CLINICAL PERFORMANCE Revised June 2012,

July 2019

The PTA Program utilizes the PTA MACS as the clinical assessment tool for all practicum experiences. All students are required to purchase the PTA MACS in the spring semester prior to Practicum I placement. One PTA MACS will serve the student for all three practicums.

The PTA MACS is divided into 6 sections; Professional Behaviors (Skills#1-11), Plan of Care (Skill #12-16), Interventions in Patient Management (Skills #17.1-20.10), Tests & Measures (Skills # 21.1-21.14), Healthcare Environment (Skills #22-26) and Site Specific Skills (Skills #27- 37). Every skill has specific objectives which should be met in order to achieve entry level/ mastery of that skill. PTA students must earn an “entry-level” rating for the Practicum learning objectives at least once during the 3 Practicum courses. Should a student’s entry- level rating be “challenged” on any subsequent practicum, the new rating will be graded according to the individual Practicum grading detailed in the course syllabus, and the student will be required to achieve entry-level during that subsequent Practicum.

The exception to this standard is the first section of the PTA MACS. PTA MACS skills #1-11 are categorized as Professional Behaviors. Professional behaviors are those behaviors the profession of physical therapy recognizes as essential for clinical success. The STC PTA program recognizes these professional behaviors as critical to successful clinical performance. Therefore, PTA MACS Skills #1-11 are considered to be critical skills and all PTA students are expected meet entry-level rating in these critical skills. Practicum grading criteria is designed to ensure that progression toward mastery of skills #1-11 is ongoing. In order to successfully complete the clinical education component of the PTA program curriculum, students must meet entry level status in all PTA MACS Professional Behaviors

(#1-11).

In addition, all PTA students must meet minimum clinical performance standards to be considered at “entry-level” performance upon graduation. The following skills have been identified as minimum clinical performance standards:

13 Implementation of the Plan of Care 14 Modification within the Plan of Care

21.3 Tests & Measures: Assistive Technology 21.4 Test & Measures: Gait, Locomotion & Balance

21.8 Tests & Measures: Muscle Performance, Strength, Power & Endurance (4/11) 21.9 Test & Measures: Neuromotor Function 21.10 Tests & Measures: Range of Motion (4/11)

17 Interventions: Therapeutic Exercise (1 exercise from 7 of the 12 sections)

18 Interventions: Functional Training-ADL’s (1intervention from 3 of the 7 sections) 20.6-20.10 Interventions: Biophysical Agents (1 modality from 5 of the 10 sections) 21.14 Tests & Measures: Aerobic Capacity/ Endurance; Objective A “Measures vital signs…)

**All students must meet entry-level performance in each of the above skills during at least one of their Practicums in order to meet graduation requirements. Should a student be challenged on a previously approved skill, student must earn re-approval of that skill to meet the minimum clinical performance standard.

NOTE: Specific grading criteria for each Practicum are communicated to the student in the individual course syllabi.


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Student Standard 4015: COMMUNICATION WITH STUDENTS DURING PRACTICUM EXPERIENCES June 2015, July 2019

During Practicums, the ACCE (and/or designee) will make a mid-term visit to meet with both the clinical instructor (CI) and student. The purpose of the visit is to track the student’s clinical performance in meeting individual practicum learning objectives, and ensure that student intervention and tests & measures techniques are provided as directed in the plan of care developed by the supervising PT. The ACCE will also verify continued appropriate supervision and role-modeling and the overall quality of the experience. If the CI is a PTA, the ACCE will verify that the student is demonstrating effective, ongoing communication with the supervising physical therapist; if the CI is a PT the ACCE will verify appropriate communication with staff PTAs if applicable. Strengths and weaknesses will be identified and documented. The ACCE will assist the student to develop an action plan as needed to promote student success.

Students are to complete and submit a weekly performance summary which includes CI input, to track ongoing progress. In the final week of every Practicum, the ACCE will conduct either a clinic visit or telephone conference to verify students’ continued progress toward meeting objectives and/or effective follow through with stated action plans.

The ACCE will ensure that the students’ right to privacy and confidentiality regarding clinical performance is protected at all times. Consultations with the CI (first) and student (second) will be completed separately in a private area away from patient care or office activities. Joint meetings may be held following consultations as needed to address concerns, promote coordination, and establish action plans.


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Student Standard 4020: PRACTICUM PROGRESSION CRITERIA Revised June 2012, June 2014, May 2015, July 2019

Throughout the clinical education component of the PTA Program, students are afforded

ONE opportunity to repeat a Practicum course.

Students must successfully complete Practicum I, prior to advancing to Practicum II. If a

student is unable to successfully pass Practicum I, they may be allowed to complete the

remaining Level II didactic courses (PTHA 2205, PTHA 2435 and PTHA 2431) on a

probationary status. If the student is able to pass the remaining courses, he/she will be

allowed to repeat Practicum I, prior to advancing to Practicum II. Repetition of Practicum I

will occur on probationary status in the final Spring Semester of the program, concurrent

with students who progress to Practicum II. Practicum II will in turn occur concurrently with

students who progress to Practicum III. Following successful completion of Practicum II, the

student will be required to complete Practicum III within the next 12 months. Scheduling of

repeat clinical experiences will be at the discretion of the ACCE and dependent upon clinic

site/Clinical Instructor availability.

Students must successfully complete Practicum II prior to advancing to Practicum III. If a

student is unable to successfully pass Practicum II, they may be allowed to repeat the

experience on probationary status. Repetition of Practicum II will occur in the final Spring

Semester of the program, concurrent with students who progress to Practicum III. Following

successful completion of the Practicum II, the student will be required to complete

Practicum III within the next 12 months. Scheduling of repeat clinical experiences will be at

the discretion of the ACCE and dependent upon clinic site/Clinical Instructor availability.

Students must successfully complete Practicum III prior to graduation. If a student is

unable to successfully pass Practicum III, they may be allowed to repeat the experience on

a probationary status. Repetition of Practicum III will occur within the next 12 months.

Scheduling of repeat clinical experiences will be at the discretion of the ACCE and dependent

upon clinic site/Clinical Instructor availability.

Although a student may attend and participate in May Commencement exercises and the

PTA program pinning ceremony, he/she will be ineligible to receive a diploma, certificate

of program completion, or PTA program pin until all academic and clinical education

requirements are met.

• If a student cannot pass a Practicum experience (I, II, or III) in two attempts, no further

opportunity for repetition will be provided and the student will be ineligible to continue in

the program. Readmission into the program will be required. See NAH Readmission

Procedure. If a student fails a Practicum experience, repeats the experience successfully

and then fails a subsequent experience, the student will no longer have the opportunity for

an additional repeat, at which point the student will be ineligible to continue in the

program. Readmission into the program will be required. See NAH Readmission Procedure.


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NOTE: Regardless of a numerical grade above 75%, a student may be removed from clinic

by a Clinical Instructor, facility owner/administration, ACCE, or designee due to:

• breach of safety

• dishonest, illegal, or unethical behavior/practice

• failure to demonstrate competent and effective clinical performance

• failure to demonstrate consistent progression/improvement to meet mastery in clinical performance/ skills

• failure to display appropriate professionalism in the clinic setting. Removal from clinic due to any of the above reasons will result in failure of the Practicum and may result in disciplinary action, resulting sanctions, and possible program dismissal.

NOTE: Violation of the NAH safe clinical practice standard will be subject to the disciplinary action and appropriate due process.

Refer to Form H. Practicum Progression Flowchart for additional information.

Student Standard 4030: ASSIGNMENTS AND ACTIVITIES Revised June 2013, July 2018

The student will participate in three full-time external clinical experiences (average 40 hrs. /week). A facility employed licensed PT or PTA will serve as the Clinical Instructor (CI). The facility’s Clinical Instructor will be the person responsible for the daily supervision and input into the PTA MACS. Students will be responsible for identifying Practicum objectives and skills available at assigned clinic sites, as well as self-assessment utilizing the PTA MACS. The STC Academic Coordinator of Clinical Education (ACCE) and/or designee will be readily available for assistance. The ACCE will make clinic visits once scheduled with the student and the CI. Assignments will include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. Log in a 40 hour full-time work week according to individual facility schedule

2. In-service Presentation at the clinic site (topic to be approved by CI)

3. Weekly assessment sheets (in place of a student journal) 4. Possible weekly phone or email contact with ACCE (assigned days/times) 5. Possible On-line discussions/postings

6. Weekly Practicum Attendance Logs 7. PTA MACS Midterm Evaluation 8. PTA MACS Final Evaluation 9. PTA MACS evaluation forms


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Student Standard 4040: PRACTICUM GRADE COMPILATION Revised June 2012

1. Clinic In-service Presentation 15%

2. PTA MACS Midterm 35%

3. PTA MACS Final 45%

4. Practicum Forms (originals) 5%

Total 100%

Student Standard 4044: CLINICAL REQUIREMENT COMPLIANCE May 2015, July 2019

Prior to program entry, PTA students are required to initiate the process toward meeting

compliance with all clinical participation requirements as stated in the NAH Student

Handbook. Students must log on to the NAH Clinical Affairs webpage to create a password

protected Complio account, which will be used throughout the PTA Program for tracking

required compliance.

Students are responsible for obtaining all proof of compliance and uploading it to the Complio

system by stated deadlines. The Complio system will email students directly with

notifications of deadlines or non-compliance. The ACCE will verify ongoing compliance prior

to Practicum placements. If deadlines are not met or should a student fall out of compliance,

they may not participate in Practicum experiences.

Student Standard 4045: MANDATORY ON-LINE HOSPITAL ORIENTATION

Prior to Practicum I, all PTA students must complete a self-enrolled on-line Hospital Orientation course on Blackboard. Students are required to pass Post Test Modules with an 80% or better. Students must print a Certificate of Completion, sign a Confidentiality Statement, and provide evidence of Post Test grades for submission to the NAH Clinical Affairs Specialist prior to the stated deadline. The PTA Program ACCE will notify students of the procedure for completion of the on-line Hospital Orientation and deadline for submission of required forms.

For additional Clinical Requirements, please refer to the NAH Student Handbook.





https://nah.southtexascollege.edu/clinical_affairs.html


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Student Standard 4050: CLINIC ATTENDANCE

Clinic attendance is required of all students. Frequent absences interrupt consistency in performance of clinical skills which may prevent the attainment of mastery in clinical skills, which is the purpose of the Practicums in the PTA program.

Every student is required to log in a 40-hour workweek according to individual facility guidelines. Work hours must be documented utilizing the Practicum Attendance Log. All absences in the clinic are to be communicated directly by the student to both: 1) the Clinical Instructor and 2) the ACCE or designee. During a Practicum course, students must not miss more than 16 clinic hours*. Any missed hours beyond 16 will result in the student being dropped from the course. All missed clinic hours must be made up in order to successfully complete the Practicum course. Make up hours are to be completed at the same facility prior to the end of the Practicum. Arrangements for any missed clinic hours are to be made directly with, and at the convenience of, the Clinical Instructor. Make up hours must also be logged in the Practicum Attendance Form. A Clinical Absence Form must be completed and turned in to the ACCE along with the Practicum Attendance Log regardless of telephone notification.

Students who are dropped for absenteeism will be ineligible to continue in the program until the course has been repeated successfully. Readmission into the program will be required. See NAH Readmission Procedure.

NOTE: If South Texas College officially closes (for example due to bad weather), students will be pulled from clinic and will be responsible for making up the missed clinic time.

*Exceptions due to extenuating circumstances may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Student Standard 4060: PUNCTUALITY Revised June 2012

Punctuality is of the utmost importance in the clinic. Students should anticipate variations between clinic business hours and are expected to make arrangements for timely attendance and active participation in patient care. Students will be apprised of individual clinic start and end times and are expected to be present for the full length of each clinic day. Occasional tardiness may be unavoidable, and students are required to account for such tardiness with the Clinical Instructor AND the ACCE just as they would on the job (telephone or email notice).

Calling to report tardiness does not make habitual tardiness acceptable. Multiple tardy calls will result in a “U” rating for MACS Skill #8 Responsibility (assigned by the ACCE). A pattern of “accountable tardiness” (repeatedly calling in to notify CI of a late arrival on 2 or more occasions) or frequent absences (more than 1 hour on 2 or more occasions throughout the 6 weeks) will result in disciplinary action. Minimal action taken will be a written report and reprimand as well as a “U” rating in the PTA MACS Skill # 8 Responsibility (assigned by the ACCE). Maximum action may be immediate failure of the Practicum and subsequent removal from the clinic site if requested by the facility.

NOTE: Failure to complete the minimum required clinical contact hours will result in a grade of “I” (Incomplete). The incomplete grade will remain until minimum course requirements are met. All previous semester courses must be completed in order to progress into the next subsequent semester.


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Student Standard 4070: CELL PHONES & ELECTRONIC MEDIA (CLINIC)

Students are expected to respect the clinic environment. Cell phone calls or texting is not permitted. As such, all cell phones should be turned “OFF” while in the clinic. “Vibrate” mode, in which the vibrating sound can interrupt the clinic setting, is not acceptable. Students must remember that in certain clinical environments, such technologies as cell phones interrupt the function of medical specialty equipment and are prohibited. Individual requests for exceptions to this clinic standard will be handled on a case-by-case basis, but not automatically granted. Emergency messages may be relayed through the departmental secretary during regular college hours. Students should familiarize themselves with each clinic’s specific guidelines regarding outside communications and use of electronic media.

Student Standard 4080: CLINIC SITES & Revised June 2012, June 2019

TRAVEL EXPECTATIONS

Students involved in the clinical education portion of program are required to provide their own transportation to and from assigned clinic sites during all practicum experiences. Current clinic sites range from Rio Grande City to Brownsville, Texas and include the following settings:

• Acute care/ hospital facility

• Ambulatory care/ outpatient

• ECF/ Nursing Home/ SNF

• Rehab/ Sub-acute Rehab Not all contracted facilities participate in every practicum. Student placement is dependent on the facility’s ability to accommodate a student as well as meet the identified clinical objectives for that practicum. All clinics are within reasonable driving distance from the Nursing and Allied Health campus. The ACCE makes every effort to place students not only according to their educational needs, but also to the most convenient location possible. However, it remains the student’s responsibility to arrive at the clinic site at the designated start time regardless of the travel distance.

NOTE: A health practicum is an unpaid learning experience. Via the Clinical Conflict

of Interest From (Appendix G), students must disclose any existing relationship with area facilities and/ or clinicians (scholarships, sponsorships, family connections, contract agreements to hire upon graduation, etc.) in order to ensure no conflict of interest occurs with student placements during Practicum courses.


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Student Standard 4090: APTA STANDARDS OF ETHICAL CONDUCT FOR THE PTA

AMERICAN PHYSICAL THERAPY ASSOCIATION

STANDARDS OF ETHICAL CONDUCT FOR THE PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT

HOD S06-09-20-18 [Amended HOD S06-00-13-24; HOD 06-91-06-07; Initial HOD 06-82-04-08] [Standard] Preamble The standards of Ethical Conduct for the Physical Therapist Assistant (Standards of Ethical Conduct) delineate the ethical obligation of all physical therapist assistants as determined by the House of Delegates of the American physical therapy Association (APTA). The Standards of Ethical Conduct provide a foundation for conduct to which all physical therapist assistants shall adhere. Fundamental to the Standards of Ethical of Conduct is the special obligation of physical therapist assistants to enable patients/clients to achieve greater independence, health and wellness, and enhanced quality of life.

No document that delineates ethical standards can address every situation. Physical therapist assistants are encouraged to seek additional advice or consultation in instances where the guidance of the Standards of Ethical Conduct may not be definitive.

Standard #1: Physical therapist assistants shall respect the inherent dignity, and rights, of all individuals. 1A. Physical therapist assistants shall act in respectful manner toward each person

regardless of age, gender, race, nationality, religion, ethnicity, social or economic status, sexual orientation, health condition or disability.

1B. Physical therapist assistants shall recognize their personal biases and shall not discriminate against others in the provision of physical therapy services.

Standard #2: Physical therapist assistants shall be trustworthy and compassionate in addressing the rights and needs of patients/clients. 2A. Physical therapist assistance shall act in the best interest of patients/clients

over the interests of the physical therapist assistant. 2B. Physical therapist assistants shall provide physical therapy interventions with

compassionate and caring behaviors that incorporate the individual and cultural differences of patients/clients.

2C. Physical therapist assistants shall provide patients/ clients with information regarding the interventions they provide.

2D. Physical therapist assistants shall protect confidential patient/client information and, in collaboration with the physical therapist, may disclose confidential information to appropriate authorities only when allowed or as required by law.

Standard #3: Physical therapist assistants shall make sound decisions in collaboration with the physical therapist and within the boundaries established by laws and regulations.

3A. Physical therapist assistants shall make objective decisions in the patient’s/client’s best

interest in all practice settings.


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3B. Physical therapist assistants shall be guided by information about best practice regarding physical therapy interventions

3C. Physical therapist assistants shall make decisions based upon their level of competence and consistent with patient/client values.

3D. Physical therapist assistants shall not engage in conflicts of interest that interfere with making sound decisions.

3E. Physical therapist assistants shall provide physical therapy services under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist and shall communicate with the physical therapist when patient/client status requires modification to the established plan of care.

Standard #4: Physical therapist assistants shall demonstrate integrity in their relationships with patients/clients, families, colleagues, students, other health care providers, employers, payers, and the public.

4A. Physical therapist assistants shall provide truthful, accurate, and relevant information and shall not make misleading representations

4B. Physical therapist assistants shall not exploit persons over whom they have supervisory, evaluative, or other authority (e.g. patients/ clients, students, supervisees, research participants, or employees).

4C. Physical therapist assistants shall discourage misconduct by health care professionals and report illegal or unethical acts to the relevant authority when appropriate.

4D. Physical therapist assistants shall report suspected cases of abuse involving children or vulnerable adults to the supervising physical therapist and the appropriate authority subject to law.

4E. Physical therapist assistants shall not engage in any sexual relationship with any of their patients/clients, supervisees, or students.

4F. Physical therapist assistants shall not harass anyone verbally, physically, emotionally, or sexually.

Standard #5: Physical therapist assistants shall fulfill their legal and ethical obligations. 5A. Physical therapist assistants shall comply with applicable local, state and federal laws

and regulations. 5B. Physical therapist assistants shall support the supervisory role of the physical

therapist to ensure quality care and promote patient/ client safety.

5C. Physical therapist assistants involved in research shall abide by accepted standards governing protection or research participants.

5D. Physical therapist assistants shall encourage colleagues with physical, psychological, or substance- related impairments that may adversely impact their professional responsibilities to seek assistance or counsel.

5E. Physical therapist assistants who have knowledge that a colleague is unable to perform their professional responsibilities with reasonable skill and safety shall report this information to the appropriate authority.

Standard #6: Physical therapist assistants shall enhance their competence through the lifelong acquisition and refinement of knowledge, skills and abilities. 6A. Physical therapist assistants shall achieve and maintain clinical competence.


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6B. Physical therapist assistants shall engage in lifelong learning consistent with changes in their roles and responsibilities and advances in the practice of physical therapy.

6C. Physical therapist assistants shall support practice environments that support career development and lifelong learning.

Standard #7: Physical therapist assistants shall support organizational behaviors and business practices that benefits patients/ clients and society. 7A. Physical therapist assistants shall promote a work environment that support

ethical and accountable decision-making.

7B. Physical therapist assistants shall not accept gifts or other consideration that influence or give an appearance of influencing their decisions.

7C. Physical therapist assistants shall fully disclose any financial interest they have in products or services that they recommend.

7D. Physical therapist assistants shall ensure that documentation for their interventions accurately reflects the nature and extent of the services provided.

7E. Physical therapist assistants shall refrain from employment arrangements, or other arrangements, that prevent physical therapist assistants from fulfilling ethical obligations to patients/clients.

Standard #8: Physical therapist assistants shall participate in efforts to meet the health needs of people, locally, nationally, or globally. 8A. Physical therapist assistants shall support organizations that meet the health needs

of people who are economically disadvantaged, uninsured and underinsured. 8B. Physical therapist assistants shall advocate for people with impairments,

activity limitations, participation restrictions, and disabilities in order to promote their participation in community and society.

8C. Physical therapist assistants shall be responsible stewards of health care resources by collaborating with physical therapists in order to avoid overutilization or underutilization of physical therapy services.

8D. Physical therapist assistants shall educate members of the public about the benefits of physical therapy.


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Last Updated: 08/01/12 Contact: [email protected]

MINIMUM REQUIRED SKILLS OF PHYSICAL THERAPIST ASSISTANT GRADUATES AT ENTRY-LEVEL BOD G11-08-09-18 [Guideline] Background In August 2007, 30 member consultants convened in Alexandria, VA for a consensus conference. The primary purpose of the conference was to achieve agreement on the minimum required skills for every graduate from a physical therapist assistant program to be able to perform on patients/clients that include, but are not limited to, the skill set required by the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) for physical therapist assistants (PTAs).

Assumptions that framed the boundaries for the discussion during this conference included:

(1) A minimum set of required skills will be identified that every graduate from a physical therapist assistant program can competently perform in the clinical environment.

(2) Development of the minimum required skills will include, but not be limited to, the content blueprint for the physical therapist assistant licensure examination; put differently, no skills on the physical therapist assistant licensure blueprint will be excluded from the minimum required skills.

(3) To achieve consensus on the minimum required skills, 90% or more of the member consultants must be in agreement.

(4) The minimum required skill of the physical therapist assistant will not exceed that described for the physical therapist.

(5) Those aspects of patient/client management that are not part of the scope of work of the physical therapist assistant are not addressed in this conference, i.e. examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, development of plan of care, re-examination, development of discharge plan.

Minimum skills were defined as foundational skills that are indispensable for a new graduate physical

therapist assistant to perform on patients/clients in a competent and coordinated manner under the direction and supervision of the physical therapist. Skills considered essential for any physical therapist assistant graduate include those addressing all systems (ie, musculoskeletal, neurological, cardiovascular pulmonary, integumentary) and the continuum of patient/client care throughout the lifespan. Definitions for terms used in this document are based on the Guide to Physical Therapist Practice. An asterisk (*) denotes a skill identified on the Physical Therapist Assistant (NPTE) Test Content Outline.

Given that agreement on this document was achieved by a small group of member consultants, the conference document was then disseminated to a wider audience comprised of stakeholder groups that would be invested in and affected by this document. The consensus-based draft document of Minimum Required Skills of Physical Therapist Assistant Graduates at Entry-Level was placed on APTA’s website and stakeholder groups, including APTA Board of Directors, all physical therapist assistant academic program directors, PTA Academic Coordinators/Directors of Clinical Education, and PTA faculties, physical therapists and PTAs serving on CAPTE panels, component leaders, the PTA Caucus, Advisory Panel of PTAs, and a sampling of clinical educators were invited to vote. A modified Delphi was used on whether or not to include/exclude specific essential skills that every PTA graduate should be competent in performing on patients/clients under the direction and supervision of the physical therapist. A total of 494 responses were received and the results were tabulated and analyzed. Those skills that the 494 respondents voted to include with an aggregate score of 80% or higher were incorporated into the final draft document.

The final “vote” was provided in a report to the APTA Board of Directors in November 2008 for their review, deliberation, and action. The Board of Directors adopted the document Minimum Required Skills of Physical Therapist Assistant Graduates at Entry-Level as a core document to be made available to stakeholders, including PTA academic programs and their faculties, clinical education sites, students, employers and CAPTE. The final document that follows defines Minimum Required Skills of Physical Therapist Assistant Graduates at Entry-Level.



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PTA Skill Category

Description of Minimum Skills for PTA

Plan of Care Review Review of physical therapy

documents Review of medical record Identification of pertinent

information Identification of

indications, contraindications, precautions, safety considerations, and expected outcomes

Access to related literature Match patient goals to

selected interventions Identification of role in

patient care Identification of items to

be communicated to the physical therapist

1. Read all physical therapy documentation, including initial examination and plan of care.

A. Note indications, contraindications, precautions and safety considerations for the patient.

B. Note goals and expected outcomes. C. Seek clarification from physical therapist, as needed.

2. Review information in the medical record at each visit, including:

A. Monitor medical record for changes in medical status and/or medical procedures.

B. Collect data on patient’s current condition, compare results to previously collected data and safety parameters established by the physical therapist, and determine if the safety parameters have been met.

C. Seek clarification from appropriate health professions’ staff for unfamiliar or ambiguous information.

3. Identify when the directed interventions are either beyond the scope of work or personal scope of work of the PTA.

4. Communicate to the physical therapist when there are significant changes in the patient’s medical status, physician referral, or when the criticality and complexity of the patient is beyond the knowledge, skills, and abilities of the PTA.

5. Explain the rationale for selected interventions to achieve patient goals as identified in the plan of care.

Provision of Procedural Interventions Compliance with policies,

procedures, ethical standards, etc.

Risk management strategies

Protection of patient privacy, rights, and dignity

Competent provision of interventions, including: Therapeutic exercise Functional training Manual therapy

techniques Application and

adjustment of devices and equipment*

Airway clearance techniques

Integumentary repair and protection techniques

1. Provide interventions compliant with federal and state licensing requirements, APTA standards documents (eg, Guide for Conduct for the PTA, Code of Ethics), and facility policies and procedures.

2. Assure safety of patient and self throughout patient care. A. Identify the need for and take action when safety of

patient or self may be at risk or has been compromised. B. Utilize risk management strategies (eg, universal

precautions, body mechanics).

3. Assure patient privacy, rights, and dignity. A. Follow HIPAA requirements and observe Patient Bill of

Rights. B. Position/drape to protect patient modesty.

4. Provide competent provision of physical therapy interventions, including: Therapeutic exercise

A. Aerobic Capacity/Endurance Conditioning or Reconditioning

1. Increase workload over time 2. Movement efficiency and energy conservation

training


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Electrotherapeutic modalities*

Physical agents and mechanical modalities*

Assessment of patient response

Clinical problem solving Ability to modify

techniques

3. Walking/wheelchair propulsion programs B. Balance, coordination, and agility training

1. Developmental activities training 2. Neuromuscular education or reeducation 3. Postural awareness training 4. Standardized, programmatic, complementary

exercise approaches (protocols) 5. Task-Specific Performance Training (eg, transfer

training, mobility exercises, functional reaching) C. Body mechanics and postural stabilization

1. Body mechanics training 2. Postural stabilization activities 3. Postural awareness training

D. Flexibility exercises 1. Range of motion 2. Stretching (eg, Passive, Active, Mechanical)

E. Gait and locomotion training 1. Developmental activities training 2. Gait training (with and without devices) 3. Standardized, programmatic, complementary

exercise approaches 4. Wheelchair propulsion and safety

F. Neuromotor development training 1. Developmental activities training 2. Movement pattern training 3. Neuromuscular education or reeducation

G. Relaxation 1. Breathing strategies (with respect to delivery of an

intervention) 2. Relaxation techniques (with respect to delivery of

an intervention) H. Strength, power, and endurance training for head, neck,

limb, trunk, and ventilatory muscles 1. Active assistive, active, and resistive exercises,

including concentric, dynamic/isotonic, eccentric, isometric, diaphragmatic breathing, and low-level plyometrics (eg, kicking a ball, throwing a ball)

Functional training in self-care and home management A. Activities of daily living (ADL) training

1. Bed mobility and transfer training 2. Activity specific performance training

B. Device and equipment use and training 1. Assistive and adaptive device or equipment

training during ADL C. Injury Prevention or reduction

1. Injury prevention education during self-care and home management

2. Injury prevention or reduction with use of devices and equipment

3. Safety awareness training during self-care and home management


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Manual therapy techniques A. Therapeutic Massage B. Soft Tissue mobilization C. Passive range of motion

Application and adjustment of devices and equipment A. Adaptive devices

1. Hospital Beds 2. Raised Toilet Seats

B. Assistive devices 1. Canes 2. Crutches 3. Long-handled reachers 4. Walkers 5. Wheelchairs

C. Orthotic and prosthetic devices 1. Braces

D. Protective devices 1. Braces

E. Supportive devices, such as: 1. Compression garments 2. Elastic wraps 3. Soft neck collars 4. Slings 5. Supplemental oxygen

Breathing strategies/oxygenation 1. Identify patient in respiratory distress 2. Reposition patient to improve respiratory function 3. Instruct patient in a variety of breathing techniques

(pursed lip breathing, paced breathing, etc.) 4. Administration of prescribed oxygen during

interventions.

Integumentary protection 1. Recognize interruptions in integumentary integrity 2. Repositioning 3. Patient education 4. Edema management

Electrotherapeutic modalities, such as: 1. Electrotherapeutic delivery of medications 2. Electrical muscle stimulation 3. Electrical stimulation for tissue repair 4. Functional electrical stimulation 5. High-voltage pulsed current 6. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation 7. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation

Physical agents 1. Cryotherapy (eg, cold pack, ice massage,

vapocoolant spray, hydrotherapy)


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PTA Skill Category


2. Ultrasound 3. Thermotherapy (eg, dry heat, hot packs, paraffin

baths, hydrotherapy)

Mechanical modalities 1. Compression therapies 2. Mechanical motion devices 3. Traction devices

5. Determine patient’s response to the intervention: A. Interview patient and accurately interpret verbal and

nonverbal responses B. Identify secondary effects or complications caused by

the intervention C. Determine outcome of intervention (positive or

negative), including data collection and functional measures

6. Use clinical problem solving skills in patient care. A. Determine if patient is safe and comfortable with the

intervention, and, if not, determine appropriate modifications

B. Compare results of intervention to previously collected data and determine if there is progress toward the expectations established by the PT or if the expectations have been met

C. Determine if modifications to the interventions are needed to improve patient response

7. Modify interventions to improve patient response. A. Determine modifications that can be made to the

intervention within the plan of care B. Communicate with physical therapist when modifications

are outside scope of work or personal scope of work of PTA

C. Select and implement modification D. Determine patient outcomes from the modification

Patient Instruction Application of principles of

learning Use of variety of teaching

strategies Methods to enhance

compliance Clarity in instructions Assessment of patient

response

1. Apply principles of learning using a variety of teaching strategies during patient instruction.

2. Provide clear instructions (eg, verbal, visual).

3. Apply methods to enhance compliance (eg, handouts, reporting forms).

4. Determine patient response/understanding of instruction.

Patient Progression Competent patient

progression

1. Implement competent patient progression. A. Identify the need to progress via data collection. B. Determine what progression can be made within the


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PTA Skill Category


Communication of pertinent information

Relationship of psychosocial factors to progress

Clinical problem solving

plan of care. C. Identify possible progressions that will continue to

advance patient response. D. Select and implement the progression of the

intervention. E. Determine outcomes of the intervention.

2. Communicate pertinent information. A. Identify changes in patient response due to intervention. B. Describe adjustments to intervention within plan of care. C. Describe response to change in intervention.

3. Recognize when other variables (psychological, social, cultural, etc.) appear to be affecting the patient’s progression with the intervention.

4. Determine if patient is progressing toward goals in plan of care. If no, determine if modifications made to the intervention are required to improve patient response.

Data Collection Competent data collection Interview skills Accurate and timely Clinical problem solving Ability to modify

techniques Documentation and

communication

1. Provide accurate, reproducible, safe, valid, and timely collection and documentation of data to measure the patient’s medical status and/or progress within the intervention as indicated in the following categories:

Anthropometric characteristics 1. Measure body dimensions (eg, height, weight,

girth, limb length).

Arousal, attention, and cognition 1. Determine level of orientation to situation, time,

place, and person. 2. Determine patient’s ability to process commands. 3. Determine level of arousal (lethargic, alert,

agitated). 4. Test patient’s recall ability (eg, short term and long

term memory).

Assistive and adaptive devices 1. Measure for assistive or adaptive devices and

equipment. 2. Determine components, alignments and fit of

device and equipment. 3. Determine patient’s safety while using the device. 4. Monitor patient’s response to the use of the

device. 5. Check patient or caregiver’s ability to care for

device and equipment (maintenance, adjustment, cleaning).

Body mechanics 1. Determine patient’s ability to use proper body


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PTA Skill Category


mechanics during functional activity.

Environmental barriers, self-care, and home management 1. Identify potential safety barriers. 2. Identify potential environmental barriers. 3. Identify potential physical barriers. 4. Determine ability to perform bed mobility and

transfers safely in the context of self-care home management.

Gait, locomotion, and balance 1. Determine patient’s safety while engaged in gait,

locomotion, balance, and mobility. 2. Measure patient’s progress with gait, locomotion,

balance, and mobility, including use of standard tests.

3. Describes gait deviations and their effect on gait and locomotion.

Integumentary integrity 1. Identify activities, positioning, and postures that

may produce or relieve trauma to the skin. 2. Identify devices and equipment that may produce

or relieve trauma to the skin. 3. Observe and describe skin characteristics (eg,

blistering, continuity of skin color, dermatitis, hair growth, mobility, nail growth, sensation, temperature, texture, and turgor).

4. Observe and describe changes in skin integrity, such as presence of wound, blister, incision, hematoma, etc.

5. Test for skin sensation and describe absent or altered sensation.

Muscle function 1. Perform manual muscle testing. 2. Observe the presence or absence of muscle

mass. 3. Describe changes in muscle tone.

Neuromotor function 1. Identify the presence or absence of developmental

reflexes, associated reactions, or abnormal tone. 2. Identify performance of gross and fine motor skills.

Orthotic and prosthetic devices and equipment 1. Check components, ensure alignment and fit of

orthotic devices, braces, and/or splints. 2. Determine effectiveness of components (Is it

working or not?), alignment, and fit of orthotic devices, braces, and splints during functional


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PTA Skill Category


activities. 3. Determine patient/caregiver’s ability to don/doff

orthotic, device, brace, and/or splint. 4. Determine patient/caregiver’s ability to care for

orthotic device, brace, or splint (eg, maintenance, adjustments, and cleaning).

Pain 1. Define location and intensity of pain.

Posture 1. Determine postural alignment and position (static

and dynamic, symmetry, deviation from midline).

Range of motion 1. Perform tests of joint active and passive

movement, muscle length, soft tissue extensibility, tone and flexibility (goniometry, tape measure).

2. Describe functional range of motion.

Sensory response 1. Perform tests of superficial sensation (coarse

touch, light touch, cold, heat, pain, pressure, and/or vibration).

2. Check peripheral nerve integrity (sensation, strength).

Vital Signs 1. Monitor and determine cardiovascular function.

(eg, peripheral pulses, blood pressure, heart rate) 2. Monitor and determine physiological responses to

position change (eg, orthostatic hypotension, skin color, blood pressure, and heart rate).

3. Monitor and determine respiratory status (eg, pulse oximetry, rate, and rhythm, pattern).

2. Provide timely communication to the physical therapist regarding findings of data collection techniques.

3. Recognize when intervention should not be provided or should be modified due to change in patient status.

Documentation Select relevant information Accuracy Ability to adapt

1. Document in writing/electronically patient care using language that is accurate, complete, legible, timely, and consistent with institutional, legal, and billing requirements.

2. Use appropriate grammar, syntax, and punctuation in communication.

3. Use appropriate terminology and institutionally approved abbreviations.


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PTA Skill Category


4. Use an organized and logical framework to document care.

5. Identify and communicate with the physical therapist when further documentation is required.

Safety, CPR, and Emergency Procedures Safety Initiate emergency

response system CPR

1. Ensure safety of self and others in the provision of care in all situations.

2. Initiate and/or participate in emergency life support procedures (simulated or actual).

3. Initiate and/or participate in emergency response system (simulated or actual).

4. Maintain competency in CPR.

5. Prepare and maintain a safe working environment for performing interventions (e.g. clear walkways, equipment checks, etc.).

Healthcare Literature 1. Reads and understands the healthcare literature.

Education a. Colleagues b. Aides, volunteers, peers,

coworkers c. Students d. Community

1. Instruct other members of the health care team, using established techniques, programs, and instructional materials, commensurate with the learning characteristics of the audience.

2. Educate colleagues and other health care professionals about the role, responsibilities, and academic preparation and scope of work of the PTA.

Resource Management Human Fiscal Systems

1. Follow legal and ethical requirements for direction and supervision of other support personnel.

2. Select appropriate non-patient care activities to be directed to support personnel.

3. Identify and eliminate obstacles to completing patient related duties.

4. Demonstrate efficient time management.

5. Provide accurate and timely information for billing and reimbursement purposes.

6. Adhere to legal/ethical requirements, including billing.

7. Maintain and use physical therapy equipment effectively.

Behavioral Expectations: a. Accountability b. Altruism

Accountability 1. Adhere to federal and state legal practice standards and

institutional regulations related to patient care and fiscal


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PTA Skill Category


c. Compassion and Caring d. Cultural Competence e. Duty f. Integrity g. Social Responsibility

management.

2. Act in a manner consistent with the Standards of Ethical Conduct for the Physical Therapist Assistant and Guide for Conduct of the Physical Therapist Assistant.

3. Change behavior in response to understanding the consequences (positive and negative) of the physical therapist assistant’s actions.

Altruism 1. Place the patient’s/client’s needs above the physical therapist

assistant’s self-interests.

Compassion and caring 1. Exhibit compassion, caring, and empathy in providing services

to patients; promote active involvement of the patient in his or her care.

Cultural competence 1. Identify, respect, and act with consideration for the patient’s

differences, values, preferences, and expressed needs in all physical therapy activities.

Duty 1. Describe and respect the physical therapists’ and other team

members’ expertise, background, knowledge, and values.

2. Demonstrate reliability in meeting normal job responsibilities (eg, attendance, punctuality, following direction).

3. Preserve the safety, security, privacy, and confidentiality of individuals.

4. Recognize and report when signs of abuse/neglect are present.

5. Actively promote physical therapy.

Integrity 1. Demonstrate integrity in all interactions.

2. Maintain professional relationships with all persons.

Social Responsibility 1. Analyze work performance and behaviors and seek assistance for improvement as needed.


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PTA Skill Category


Communication Interpersonal Communication 1. Develop rapport with patients/clients and others to promote

confidence.

2. Actively listen and display sensitivity to the needs of others.

3. Ask questions in a manner that elicits needed responses.

4. Modify communication to meet the needs of the audience, demonstrating respect for the knowledge and experience of others.

5. Demonstrate congruence between verbal and non-verbal messages.

6. Recognize when communication with the physical therapist is indicated.

7. Initiate and complete verbal and written communication with the physical therapist in a timely manner.

8. Ensure ongoing communication with the physical therapist for optimal patient care.

9. Recognize role and participate appropriately in communicating patient status and progress within the health care team.

Conflict Management/Negotiation 1. Recognize potential for conflict.

2. Implement strategies to prevent and/or resolve conflict.

3. Seek resources to resolve conflict when necessary.

Promotion of Health, Wellness, and Prevention

1. Demonstrate health promoting behaviors.

2. Recognize opportunities to educate the public or patients about issues of health, wellness, and prevention (eg, benefits of exercise, prevention of falls, etc.) and communicate opportunity to the physical therapist.

3. Educate the public or patients about issues of health, wellness, and prevention (eg, benefits of exercise, prevention of falls, etc.).

4. Recognize patient indicators of willingness to change health behaviors and communicate to the physical therapist.

Career Development 1. Engage in self-assessment.

2. Identify individual learning needs to enhance role in the profession.


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PTA Skill Category


3. Identify and obtain resources to increase knowledge and skill.

4. Engage in learning activities (eg, clinical experience, mentoring, skill development).

5. Incorporate new knowledge and skill into clinical performance.

Relationship to Vision 2020; (Academic/Clinical Education Affairs Department, ext 3203

Explanation of Reference Numbers: BOD P00-00-00-00 stands for Board of Directors/month/year/page/vote in the Board of Directors Minutes; the "P" indicates that it is a position (see below). For example, BOD P11-97-06-18 means that this position can be found in the November 1997 Board of Directors minutes on Page 6 and that it was Vote 18.

P: Position | S: Standard | G: Guideline | Y: Policy | R: Procedure


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Miscellaneous Forms


81

FORM A: PROFESSIONAL BEHAVIOR SELF-ASSESSMENT FORM Revised June 2013, June 2014

Directions: 1. Read the description of each professional behavior and become familiar with the

criteria. 2. Self-assess your performance continually, relative to the behaviors, using the stated

criteria. 3. Complete the Assessment as follows:

a. Using a yellow Highlighter pen, highlight the bullet box for all behavioral criteria that describes behaviors you consistently demonstrate.

b. Fill in the next column to indicate the rating (B, D, or E) that applies to each behavioral criterion.

c. Set goals and an action plan for development of all Beginning (B) and Developing (D) ratings, and indicate these on the far right column.

d. For all Entry level (E) ratings, give at least one specific example of a time when you demonstrated each behavioral criteria.

PROFESSIONAL BEHAVIORS SELF-ASSESSMENT FORM

Professionalism includes attributes, characteristics, or behaviors that are not explicitly part of the profession’s core of knowledge and technical skills, but are nevertheless required for the success of the profession.

*Adapted from the Physical Therapy Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison May et al. Journal of Physical Therapy Education. 9: 1, Spring 1995.

*B=Beginning level *D=Developing level *E=Entry

PROFESSIONAL BEHAVIOR

BEHAVIORAL CRITERIA *YOUR RATING (B, D, E)

PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT or SPECIFIC EXAMPLE

1. Commitment to learning - the ability to self-assess, self-correct, and self-direct; to identify needs and sources of learning; and to continually seek new knowledge and understanding.

Assuming responsibility by self-starting and completing projects and other tasks, including own learning.

Showing an energetic, positive and motivated manner in class lab and in clinic.

Doing more than what is minimally expected.

Aware of strengths and weaknesses and seeks to improve.

Conveying a humble, respectful attitude regarding knowledge and learning


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2. Interpersonal skills and Compassion/Caring - the ability to interact effectively with peers, faculty, patients, families and colleagues, other health care professionals, and the community; to deal effectively with cultural and ethnic diversity issues.

Treating others with respect by being sensitive to their feelings, ideas, and opinions even if different from one’s own; demonstrating cultural competence.

Develops group cohesiveness by assisting in the development of the group as a whole.

Being courteous to faculty. Refrain from: cell phone usage, including instant text messaging or e-mail during class, wearing hats, sleeping, talking during lectures, interrupting lecturers excessively, and being late to arrive or in returning from break, packing up early, and using non-verbal behaviors which would commonly be judged as impolite.

3. Communication skills - the ability to communicate effectively (i.e., speaking, body language, reading, writing, listening) for varied audiences and purposes.

Verbally interacting in class activities/discussions and verbalizing opposing opinions constructively.

Appropriately controlling expression of emotion: verbal, postural, gestural, facial.

Communicating ideas and opinions clearly and concisely verbally and in written papers, notes, reports/article reviews and on-line communication/discussions.

Writing legibly Listening actively with appropriate eye-

contact (able to follow instructions/directions)

Using professional language and terminology; no slang or profane language.

Displaying assertive communication skills; speaking clearly and loudly enough to be heard in the particular setting.

Remaining quiet when instructor/fellow classmate(s) are speaking.

Recognizes impact of non-verbal communication and modifies accordingly, utilizing non-verbal communication to augment verbal message.


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4. Effective use of time and resources - the ability to obtain the maximum benefit from a minimum investment of time and resources

Prioritizing self and tasks, managing time to meet commitments.

Having all material ready for class and being adequately prepared. (Dressed in uniform/lab clothing without prompting; brings books, supplies to class)

Maintains resources, equipment and classroom/lab workspace clean and in good working order.

Demonstrates flexibility and plans ahead.

5. Accountability & Use of feedback - the ability to identify sources of and seek out feedback and to effectively use and provide feedback for improving personal interaction and performance.

Seeking opportunities to obtain feedback

Accepting constructive feedback/criticism with appropriate emotional and mature reactions (is not defensive, does not make excuses).

Modifying performance and striving for improvement in response to constructive criticism/feedback in the laboratory and clinic.

Respecting the rights of those in authority to make decisions and complying with those decisions without complaining.

6. Problem solving - the ability to recognize and define problems, analyze data, develop and implement solutions, and evaluate outcomes.

Taking advantage of learning opportunities.

Using an inquiring/questioning approach in class and clinic.

Taking initiative to utilize available resources to advance learning. (Peers, NAH counselor, CLE, etc.)

Seeking assistance when necessary. Analyzing, synthesizing and

interpreting information to allow application in a situation different from the original learning context.


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7. Professionalism - the ability to exhibit appropriate professional conduct and to represent the profession effectively.

Assuming responsibility and consequences for one’s own actions.

Accepting one’s limitations and participating in appropriate self-assessment.

Openly and constructively dealing with conflict.

Using body posture and affect that communicates interest or engaged attention.

Proper appearance for all program and related activities: Uniform/Clothing is according to dress code, ironed, neat, clean, and well maintained. I.D. Badge is worn. Good personal grooming and hygiene; refrains from appearing unkempt or disheveled. Hair is worn in an appropriate manner. Student is free of excessive jewelry. Make-up and perfume or cologne usage is discrete and tasteful.

Being polite even when a situation is not going in one’s own favor, always using respectful language, modeling mature behaviors even when outside of the classroom or the clinical setting.

Controlling nervous behaviors (facial grimace, foot tapping, leg shaking, etc.)

An attitude that is not flippant, aggressive or inappropriate.

8. Honesty/Integrity Respecting others, their property and STC instructional materials.

Refusing to lie, steal, cheat or deceive in any way.

Displaying ethical behaviors by observing the professions code of ethics and demonstrating mature values and manners.

Compliance with all STC policies, procedures and P.T.A. program standards.

Maintaining confidentiality (peer, patient, and clinic)


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9. Responsibility/ Professional Duty - the ability to fulfill commitments and to be accountable for actions and outcomes.

Being on time for class, clinic, and labs and reporting tardiness and absences according to P.T.A. handbook guidelines.

Following through with commitments and responsibilities in class, clinic and program related activities.

Always completing required coursework in a timely fashion; not waiting for the last day to begin projects/ask for help.

10. Critical thinking - the ability to question logically; to identify, generate and evaluate elements of logical argument; to recognize and differentiate facts, illusions, assumptions and hidden assumptions; and to distinguish the relevant from the irrelevant.

Raises vital questions and problems, formulating them clearly and precisely.

Gathers and assesses relevant information, using abstract ideas to interpret it effectively, comes to well-reasoned conclusions and solutions, testing them against relevant criteria and standards.

Thinks open mindedly within alternative systems of thought, recognizing and assessing, as need be, their assumptions, implications, and practical consequences.

Communicates effectively with others in figuring out solutions to complex problems.

11. Social Responsibility & Altruism

Demonstrates willingness to assist or help peers

Actively participates in SPTA Club activities

Participates in service activities for school and/or community (document on Community Service Log)

* Note: Students who fail to display appropriate professionalism will be advised and remediation will be recommended in the form of an action plan and/or learning contract. If a student’s behavior continues to be a problem, he/she may be subject to disciplinary action. *Adapted from the Physical Therapy Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison May et al. Journal of Physical Therapy Education. 9: 1, Spring 1995. NOTE: The PTA program utilizes the professional behaviors self-assessment form to assess professional behaviors in the classroom/lab. During Practicum courses, Professional Behaviors are assessed utilizing s skills 1-12 in the PTA MACS book. Please refer to individual syllabi for specific practicum grading criteria.


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FORM B: Revised June 2012, June 2014, July 2018

STUDENT CONSENT FORM

As a student in the Physical Therapist Assistant Program at South Texas College, I , consent to participate in all laboratory and classroom activities under the supervision of STC faculty. In doing so, I acknowledge the fact that activities in the PTA program include skills and techniques which involve physical activity, the use of massage, heat, cold, electricity, traction, and all forms of therapeutic exercise. In agreeing to participate, I also release the College, including academic faculty, clinical faculty, and fellow students, from any injuries that I may incur from my participation in all activities involved in the program. I also agree to the following: (initial all)

I have received, understand, and agree to abide by the PTA Program Student Standards.

I have received proper explanation and fully understand the PTA attendance and tardiness policies.

I have received proper orientation to the PTA program, its standards and STC NAH Division and College standards and policies.

I understand my responsibilities as a student of the STC PTA program.

I have been notified of the identification of my program faculty.

I agree to participate in any videotaping, audio-taping, photographing, or any other media presentations to be used for educational purposes.

I consent to and authorize the use and reproduction in print or electronic format by STC and/or the PTA Program of photographs/videos taken of me with or without my name for any lawful purpose including PTA program advertising, publications, illustrations, social media and Web content. I understand that have the right to rescind this release in writing at any time.

I have been informed of and understand the current accreditation status of the PTA program and College.

I give my permission for the release of academic information to PTA faculty and clinical facilities under contract with STC; federal, state, or local agencies authorized by law; accrediting organizations or organizations conducting educational studies; parents of a dependent student (as defined in section 152 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954).


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I have received proper explanation and agree to full laboratory participation as described in the PTA PROGRAM MANUAL OF STUDENT STANDARDS. I have received proper explanation of the MSDS manual location and contents.

I have been informed of and understand the STC PTA program Technical Performance Standards; I acknowledge the ability to perform/demonstrate each in a safe, efficient and correct manner.

I am not currently receiving physical therapy or occupational therapy treatments for a musculoskeletal condition that would be affected by my participation in this class without giving proper notification to the Program Chair.

I do not have any current medical condition(s) that I am aware of or for which I have sought a physician’s care that have not been disclosed to the Program Chair.

I understand that I may ask for further clarification at any time, or revise my status should there be any change in my condition.

It is my responsibility to inform the instructor(s) of any circumstances(s) which may limit my full participation in these procedures both now and in the future, and that I am fully aware of the (potential) consequences should I not do so.

I understand that should I wish to request a special accommodation due to a documented disability, it is my responsibility to contact the STC Office of Disability Support Services for information and procedures.

To the best of my knowledge, I am safe to perform the assigned physical therapy procedures and to have the procedures applied to me by other PTA students in my class and/or the course instructor.

Name of Student (PRINTED) Date

Name of Student SIGNATURE)


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FORM C: STUDENT CONSULTATION FORM

This student consultation form is to assist you in thinking about how you learn, so that you can implement effective learning strategies for yourself on future exams or lab practicals. Please reflect on and answer the questions as honestly as possible. Remember this is to help you so be honest with yourself. Thank you.

Reflection: Some things that I wish I hadn’t done during the time this unit was being covered (Example: Didn’t spend much time studying, used wrong learning strategies)

Positive Strategies: Some things that worked out well and I’m glad that I did include: (Example: Studied with peers, listened to taped lectures, and received tutorial assistance.)

Action Plan: In thinking about the best ways I learn, for the next unit exam/lab practical, I am planning to do the following: (Example: Keep up with readings and other school activities such as open lab times.)


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FORM D STUDENT EXAM ITEM CHALLENGE FORM

Name:

Class: Date:

I am challenging the following test item:

Rationale: (Explain why you believe the test item is incorrect, and/or why your answer should be considered for credit.)

Reference Source: (Give location in your textbook, and/or other *acceptable resource for information used in rationale)

*Acceptable resources include: course textbook, course printed handouts or Power Points. Student lecture notes and internet websites are not an acceptable resource.


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FORM E: COMMUNITY SERVICE LOG

Student Name (please print): _________________________________ Student ID __________ SERVICE DETAILS Please attach any supporting documents

DATE SEMESTER ORGANIZATION/ RECIPIENT OF SERVICE

EVENT/PROJECT/ACTIVITY & DUTIES PERFORMED

HOURS COMPLETED

TITLE & SIGNATURE OF ACTIVITY COORDINATOR/

Total Events/Projects/Activities Performed: Total Hours Completed: With my signature below, I certify that the above information is true and accurate.


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FORM F: Updated June 2019 Student Medical History Questionnaire

As part of the learning process, students in the PTA program will be required to simulate the role of “patient” during classroom and laboratory activities. As a way of preventing possible injury during the student’s participation in course activities, any relevant medical information must be disclosed. It is the responsibility of the student to disclose to the program chair or course instructor any past or current conditions that could potentially put them at risk for injury. Students will be formally surveyed in a designated course at the start of each semester. Additionally, any conditions that arise throughout the course of their participation in the PTA program must be disclosed. This information will be kept in the student’s file and will be made available to (PTA) program faculty members.

To the best of your knowledge, do you currently have any of the following conditions in your medical history?

If you check “Yes” for any of the following conditions, please provide an explanation on the space provided below.

Yes

No Are you pregnant now or do you plan to get pregnant in the next 6 months?

Malignancy (Cancer, Tumors)

Pacemaker or other implants

Impaired/Decreased Sensation

Current Pain? If so, where?

Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, Strains, Ligament Tears, Whiplash

Herniated Disks/Fractures

High or Low Blood Pressure

Seizure Disorder


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Yes

No

Vertigo, Dizziness or Fainting

Surgeries or Musculoskeletal Conditions including hyper or hypomobile joints

Allergies (Lotions, Latex, Other)

Skin Diseases or Conditions

Incidence of frostbite

Use of Medications (i.e. Anti-coagulant Medications, Corticosteroids)

Have you been diagnosed with any of the following: Chest Pain, Heart Attack, Diabetes,

Stroke, Claustrophobia, Autoimmune disorders, Bleeding or circulatory disorders.

Is there any other condition that you should disclose regarding your medical history? Explain:

Student Name:_______________________ Student Signature: _________________ Date: Indicate the course in which questionnaire was administered: _________________________________ Follow up consultation:


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FORM G: June 2019 Clinical Conflict of Interest Form

In an effort to plan for an effective clinical education experience that will provide exposure to a variety of settings and promote timely completion of required PTA skills, PTA students must disclose any previous or existing connections to area physical therapy facilities. All students must disclose any of the following:

a. PT or healthcare employment history (along with position held), b. PT or healthcare volunteer experience/observation hours (i.e. previous

practicum hours) c. family/ friendship connections (with anyone owning or working in an area PT/healthcare facility) d. any other connection or interaction (with anyone owning or working in an area PT/healthcare facility)

Indicate the connection or interaction below: Facility Name

Address/ Location

Employee & Position

Volunteer Hours

Previous Practicum Hours

Family Connection

Other Connection


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FORM H:

Practicum I Student earns >

75% Student earns < 75%

Practicum 2 Practicum 3 Student earns > 75%

PRACTICUM PROGRESSION

Student earns < 75%

Student earns < 75%

Student placed on probation and must pass all remaining didactic courses

Student earns < 75%

Practicum I REPEAT

Student earns > 75%

Student receives max course grade of “D”. Discuss possibility of petitioning for program re-entry with Program

Chair.

Student earns > 75%

Student earns < 75%

Student has not

previously failed a

Practicum experience

Student previously

failed a Practicum experience

Practicum 2 REPEAT

Practicum 3 REPEAT

Student earns >

75%

Practicum requirements

MET!


Student previously

failed a Practicum experience

Student has not

previously failed a

Practicum experience


Student earns < 75%

Student earns > 75%


95

FORM I:

Pass Lab Practical! Student

demonstrates skill

competency.

Student earns > 75%

Student earns < 75%

Complete remediation & RETEST with new LP scenario

Student is eligible for LP retest opportunity (student can retest up

to 50% of course LP’s)

Student demonstrates skill competency.

Student earns > 75%

Student has already retested 50% of course LP’s and is NOT eligible for LP

retest opportunity

Student receives grade of “0” for LP exam

*Final LP average < 75%

*Final LP average > 75% & Final course average > 75%

*Students must earn > 75% in both lecture and lab portions of the course and demonstrate competency in all required course skills to earn a passing grade in the course. **Faculty directed assessments must require that the student perform the deficient skill safely and effectively a minimum of 3 times to show consistency and competency.

Student receives a max course grade of “D”. Discuss possibility of

petitioning for program re-entry with Program

Chair.

Student is placed on probation, remediates

deficiencies, and must prove competency via **faculty

directed assessment in order to proceed to next semester.

Student does not demonstrate skill

competency.

Student does not demonstrate skill

competency.

Student earns < 75%

Actual retest grade will be recorded

Pass Lab Practical!

Student receives “75” for LP exam

and demonstrates

skill competency.

Lab Practical (LP) Exam

Documents

MANUAL OF STUDENT STANDARDS - South Texas … Standards...2220 LAUNDRY ROOM 52 2230 FACILITY TELEPHONES 52 2240 STUDENT EMPLOYMENT 52 2250 53PTA LICENSURE EXAM PROCESS & FEES 2260