The purpose of physical therapy is to restore loco-motor function to the human body through alleviating and correcting movement dysfunction. Physical Therapy has become a valuable part of total patient care and rehabilitation. Physical Therapy Aides, under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist, assist with specific components of treatment interventions. A substantial increase in the amount of physical activity in the general population has resulted in a significant increase in the need for physical therapy services. 

The Physical Therapy Aide is generally responsible for carrying out the non-technical duties of physical therapy, such as preparing treatment areas, ordering devices and supplies, and transporting patients. As a result of the increase in physical activity among adult populations, the number of sports related injuries has increased substantially - escalating the need for physical therapy services and Physical Therapy Aides. This comprehensive program prepares students for entry level Physical Therapy Aide positions as supportive personnel in a Physical Therapy practice.

NOTE: This is an entry-level program for Physical Therapy Aides. State certification/license in physical therapy generally requires at least 1 to 2 years of formal education.

• Program Objectives
• Skills-Based Labs and Activities

After completing this program, learners will be able to:

• Introduction to Physical Therapy
• History and Evolution of Physical Therapy
• Role of the PT aide in the rehabilitation team
• Ethical and legal considerations for aides
• Parts and types of effective communication
• Abbreviations and medical terminology
• Basic Anatomy, Anatomical Position
• Structures of the Musculoskeletal System and function of each
• Range of motion exercises
• Ambulation and gait training
• Measuring Vital Signs; Disorders of the Circulatory
• Strengthening and exercise
• Types of physical therapy modalities
• Stretching and direction of movement
• Common injuries and associated modalities
• Clinical skills: patient positioning, and transfer, use of transfer belt, ambulation using crutches/walker/cane range of motion exercises; accurate vital signs

As part of this program, Learners will complete the following hands-on labs and activities:

• Handwashing
• General Patient Care
• Patient Positioning
• Vital Signs
• ROM Exercises - Upper and Lower Extremities
• Exercises for Total Hip Replacement Patient
• Exercises for Cerebrovascular Accident - Stroke
• Use of a Gait Belt or Transfer Belt
• Use of Assistive Devices for Ambulation
• Compression Stockings, Binders, and Elastic Wraps
• Patient Transfers
• Undressing and Dressing a Patient for Treatment
• Making an Occupied Bed
• Applying Hot and Cold Compresses
• First Aid and CPR

Certification Opportunities

After completing this program, learners will have the opportunity to take the leading national/industry-recognized certification exam(s) essential to entry-level employment in this fast-growing field.

National Workforce Career Association (NWCA) Physical Therapy Aide

 

 

Optional Volunteer Externship Opportunity

Learners who complete this program are eligible to participate in an optional volunteer externship opportunity with a local company/agency/organization whose work aligns with this area of study in order to gain valuable hands-on experience.  As learners progress through their eLearning program, an Externship Coordinator will reach out to coordinate placement.

Note: Additional documentation including health records, immunizations, drug-screening, criminal background checks, etc. may be required by the externship facility.