2019 – 2020
Florida Department of Education
Curriculum Framework 

Program Title:	Physical Therapist Assistant
Career Cluster:	Health Science

AS	
CIP Number	1351080601	
Program Type	College Credit	
Standard Length	74 credit hours	
CTSO	HOSA: Future Health Professionals; APTA	
SOC Codes (all applicable) 	31-2021 Physical Therapist Assistants	
CTE Program Resources 	http://www.fldoe.org/academics/career-adult-edu/career-tech-edu/program-resources.stml 	

Purpose

This program offers a sequence of courses that provides coherent and rigorous content aligned with challenging academic standards and relevant technical knowledge and skills needed to prepare for further education and careers in the Health Science career cluster; provides technical skill proficiency, and includes competency-based applied learning that contributes to the academic knowledge, higher-order reasoning and problem-solving skills, work attitudes, general employability skills, technical skills, and occupation-specific skills, and knowledge of all aspects of Health Science career cluster. 

The purpose of this program is to prepare students for employment as physical therapist assistants SOC Code 31-2021 (Physical Therapist Assistants).

The content includes but is not limited to the requirements of the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education/American Physical Therapy Association, 1111 North Fairfax Street, Alexandria, VA 22314, (703) 684-2782.  

Additional Information relevant to this Career and Technical Education (CTE) program is provided at the end of this document.

Program Structure

This program is a planned sequence of instruction consisting of 74 credit hours.

Regulated Programs

The graduate of this program is prepared to make an application to the Florida Physical Therapist Assistant licensing examination which is given by the Florida Department of Health, Board of Physical Therapy Practice.

Standards

After successfully completing this program, the student will be able to perform the following:

01.0	Demonstrate knowledge of the healthcare delivery system and health occupations.
02.0	Demonstrate the ability to communicate and use interpersonal skills effectively.
03.0	Demonstrate legal and ethical responsibilities.
04.0	Demonstrate an understanding of and apply wellness and disease concepts.
05.0	Recognize and practice safety and security procedures.
06.0	Recognize and respond to emergency situations.
07.0	Recognize and practice infection control procedures.
08.0	Demonstrate an understanding of information technology applications in healthcare.
09.0	Demonstrate employability skills.
10.0	Demonstrate knowledge of blood borne diseases, including HIV/AIDS.
11.0	Apply basic math and science skills. 
12.0	Describe anatomical structure, function and dysfunction of the human body related to the practice of physical therapy.
13.0	Demonstrate ethical and legal practice as a physical therapist assistant.
14.0	Demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide comprehensive patient/client management and implement a comprehensive plan of care as established by a physical therapist.  
15.0	Demonstrate competence in implementing selected components of interventions identified in the plan of care established by a physical therapist.  
16.0	Demonstrate competence in performing components of data collection skills essential for carrying out the plan of care by administering appropriate tests and measures (before, during and after interventions).   
17.0	Participate in the health care environment as a member of a patient/client -centered interprofessional collaborative team.

2019 – 2020
Florida Department of Education
Student Performance Standards

Program Title:	Physical Therapist Assistant
CIP Number:		1351080601 
Program Length: 	74 credit hours
SOC Code(s):		31-2021

Standards 1-11 are referred to as the Health Science Core and are required standards in this program. Secondary and Postsecondary students completing the health science core will not have to repeat the core in any other health science program in which it is a part.  When the recommended sequence is followed, the structure allows students to complete at specified points for employment or remain for advanced training or cross-training.  

To ensure consistency whenever these courses are offered, the health science core standards (1-11) have been placed in a separate document. You can access the course standards and benchmarks by visiting this link: 
http://www.fldoe.org/core/fileparse.php/5655/urlt/health-sci-core-psav-cc.rtf

Refer to Rule 6A-14.030 (4) F.A.C., for the minimum amount of general education coursework required in the Associate of Science (AS) degree.  At the completion of this program, the student will be able to:	

Physical Therapist Assistant:  Intended outcomes (12-17) lead to the occupational completion point of Physical Therapist Assistant.	
12.0	Describe anatomical structure, function and dysfunction of the human body related to the practice of physical therapy. – The student will be able to:	
12.01	Label the following topographic terms: 
12.01.01	Medial
12.01.02	lateral
12.01.03	proximal
12.01.04	distal
12.01.05	superior
12.01.06	inferior
12.01.07	anterior
12.01.08	posterior
12.01.09	midline
12.01.10	right and left
12.01.11	bilateral	
12.02	Chart the life support chain, aerobic metabolism and anaerobic metabolism.	
12.03	Define anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, and homeostasis. 	
12.04	Identify and describe the anatomical structures and functions of the following: 
12.04.01	Circulatory/ Cardiovascular system 
12.04.02	Endocrine and metabolic system 
12.04.03	Gastrointestinal/Digestive system
12.04.04	Genital and Reproductive system
12.04.05	Hematologic system
12.04.06	Hepatic and Biliary system
12.04.07	Immune System
12.04.08	Integumentary system
12.04.09	Lymphatic System 
12.04.10	Musculoskeletal System 
12.04.11	Nervous System 
12.04.12	Respiratory System
12.04.13	Renal and Urologic systems	
12.05	Describe medical/surgical conditions and related treatment across the lifespan. 	
13.0	Demonstrate ethical and legal practice as a physical therapist assistant. – The student will be able to:	
13.01	Act in a manner that is consistent with the American Physical Therapy Association’s Standards of Ethical Conduct for the Physical Therapist Assistant.	
13.02	Demonstrate an understanding of the laws and regulations governing the profession of physical therapy.  	
13.03	Practice under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist (PT).	
13.04	Demonstrate behaviors consistent with the American Physical Therapy Association’s Value Based Behaviors for the Physical Therapist Assistant.	
13.05	Demonstrate awareness of the patient/client's need for dignity and independence.	
13.06	Recognize patient/client expressions of discomfort, spoken or unspoken (body language).	
13.07	Demonstrate sensitivity to the patient/client’s emotional response. 	
13.08	Recognize own reaction to the patient/client's illness or disability.	
13.09	Recognize patient/client's and family's reactions to illness and disability.	
13.10	Respect individual, cultural, religious and socio-economic differences in people.	
13.11	Utilize appropriate communication channels. 	
13.12	Identify scope of responsibility of the physical therapist assistant as it relates to patient/client care, departmental function, the physical therapist, and the physical therapy aide.	
13.13	Determine tasks and duties that are beyond the scope of practice for the physical therapist assistant.	
13.14	Communicate information to the appropriate individual, with an understanding / recognition of the proper chain of command.	
13.15	Utilize resources efficiently and effectively in the delivery of healthcare.	
13.16	Manage time effectively.	
13.17	Adhere to legal practice standards, including all federal, state, and institutional regulations related to patient/client care and fiscal management.	
13.18	Report to appropriate authorities suspected cases of abuse of vulnerable populations.	
13.19	Report to appropriate authorities suspected cases of fraud and abuse related to the utilization of and payment for physical therapy and other health care services.	
13.20	Implement, in response to an ethical situation, a plan of action that demonstrates sound moral reasoning congruent with core professional ethics and values.  	
13.21	Apply current knowledge, theory, and clinical judgment while considering the patient/client perspective and the environment, based on the plan of care established by the physical therapist.	
13.22	Identify basic concepts in professional literature including, but not limited to, validity, reliability and level of statistical significance.	
13.23	Identify and integrate appropriate evidence based resources to support clinical decision making for progression of the patient/client within the plan of care established by the physical therapist.	
13.24	Participate in professional and community organizations that provide opportunities for volunteerism, advocacy and leadership.	
13.25	Identify career development and lifelong learning opportunities, including the role of the physical therapist assistant in the clinical education of physical therapist assistant students.  	
14.0	Demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide comprehensive patient/client management and implement a comprehensive plan of care as established by a physical therapist.  – The student will be able to:	
14.01	Participate in discharge planning and follow up care.	
14.02	Review patient/client medical record and identify pertinent information related to the patient/clients’ diagnosis.	
14.03	Interview patient/clients, caregivers, and family to obtain current information and report relevant information to the supervising PT.	
14.04	Identify indications and contradictions for each treatment/procedure and apply appropriate interventions.	
14.05	Report any changes in patient/client status or progress to the supervising physical therapist. 	
14.06	Communicate an understanding of the plan of care developed by the physical therapist to achieve short and long term goals and intended outcomes.	
14.07	Determine a baseline physiological state.	
14.08	Recognize changes in a baseline physiological state.	
14.09	Determine significance of change in physiological state.	
14.10	Use the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) to describe a patient's/client’s impairments, activity and participation limitations.	
14.11	Monitor and adjust interventions in the plan of care in response to patient/client status and clinical indications.	
15.0	Demonstrate competence in implementing selected components of interventions identified in the plan of care established by a physical therapist.  – The student will be able to:	
15.01	Administer activities of daily living and functional training to patients/clients.	
15.02	Perform gait training and postural training techniques.	
15.03	Perform manual therapy techniques.	
15.04	Perform balance and coordination activities.	
15.05	Perform developmental activities.	
15.06	Implement therapeutic exercise programs. 	
15.07	Apply external bandages, dressings and support devices.	
15.08	Perform wound management.	
15.09	Measure and properly fit assistive devices.	
15.10	Perform gait training/locomotion training in household and community environments with appropriate assistive device(s) or wheelchair.	
15.11	State the therapeutic benefits of exercise.	
15.12	Define orthotics and prosthetic devices and state the importance of proper fit.	
15.13	 Describe upper and lower extremity prosthetics in terms of types of amputations. 	
15.14	Identify common problems in orthotic and prosthetic management and apply decision making skills in dealing effectively with them.	
15.15	Instruct patient, client or care giver in orthotic and prosthetic management and assist patient/client in problem solving techniques.  	
15.16	Perform postural drainage and instruct patient/client in proper coughing and breathing exercises.	
15.17	Describe action required to remediate barriers based on the plan of care established by the physical therapist.	
15.18	Effectively educate others using teaching methods that are commensurate with the needs of the patient/client, caregiver or healthcare personnel. 	
15.19	Demonstrate appropriate use of medical terminology and layman’s terms.	
15.20	Define and describe the importance of the following terms: 
15.20.01	 disinfect 
15.20.02	sterilize
15.20.03	germicide
15.20.04	vaccinate
15.20.05	 immunize
15.20.06	antiseptic
15.20.07	septic	
15.21	Disinfect equipment after each use.	
15.22	State the therapeutic temperature range for modalities in which temperature is a guideline for application.	
15.23	Identify physiological effects of heat vs. cold applications.	
15.24	Demonstrate appropriate therapeutic use of biophysical agents including biofeedback, electrotherapeutic agents, compression therapies, cryotherapy, hydrotherapy, superficial and deep thermal agents, traction, and light therapies.	
16.0	Demonstrate competence in performing components of data collection skills essential for carrying out the plan of care by administering appropriate tests and measures (before, during, and after interventions).   – The student will be able to:	
16.01	Describe normal and abnormal motor behavior.	
16.02	Assist physical therapist in collecting data related to a patient/client’s disability and condition.	
16.03	 Detect and describe normal and abnormal joint movement.	
16.04	Perform appropriate measurement and assessment techniques within the knowledge and limits of practice to assist the supervising physical therapist in monitoring and modifying the plan of care.	
16.05	Recognize gait deviations.	
16.06	 Demonstrate competence in performing components of data collection skills essential for carrying out the plan of care such as standard vital signs, anthropometrical characteristics and mental functions.	
16.07	Perform goniometric measurement.	
16.08	Identify which environmental factors are potential architectural barriers.	
16.09	Determine which architectural barriers will impact a patient/client’s functional level including the use of ambulatory/mobility equipment. 	
16.10	Document all aspects of treatment using correct format, content and terminology.	
16.11	Demonstrate the measurement of standard vital signs; recognize and monitor responses to positional changes and activities (e.g., orthostatic hypotension, response to exercise).	
16.12	Identify the individual’s and caregiver’s ability to care for the device; recognize changes in skin condition and safety factors while using devices and equipment.	
16.13	Determine the safety, status, and progression of patients while engaged in gait, locomotion, balance, wheelchair management and mobility.	
16.14	Detect absent or altered sensation; normal and abnormal integumentary changes; activities, positioning, and postures that aggravate or relieve pain or altered sensations, or that can produce associated skin trauma; and recognize viable versus nonviable tissue.	
16.15	Measure muscle strength by manual muscle testing; observe the presence or absence of muscle mass; recognize normal and abnormal muscle length, and changes in muscle tone.	
16.16	Administer standardized questionnaires, graphs, behavioral scales, or visual analog scales for pain; recognize activities, positioning, and postures that aggravate or relieve pain or altered sensations.	
16.17	Determine normal and abnormal alignment of trunk and extremities at rest and during activities.	
16.18	Detect signs and symptoms of respiratory distress, and activities that aggravate or relieve edema, pain, dyspnea, or other symptoms; describe thoracoabdominal movements and breathing patterns with activity, and cough and sputum characteristics.	
16.19	Respond effectively to patient/client and environmental emergencies that commonly occur in the clinical setting.	
17.0	Participate in the health care environment as a member of a patient/client -centered interprofessional collaborative team. – The student will be able to: 	
17.01	Prepare patient/clients and treatment areas and ensures equipment is in proper working order.	
17.02	Recognize the importance of routine maintenance of equipment.	
17.03	Clean and check operation of wheelchairs, assistive devices, treatment tables, electrical equipment, etc.	
17.04	Demonstrate how to properly operate patient/client equipment.	
17.05	Instruct in safety considerations for equipment and on indications/contraindications of a specific physical therapy intervention.	
17.06	Implement appropriate patient/client safety goals.	
17.07	Describe disciplines within the healthcare system and identify the roles of each discipline. 	
17.08	Describe the categories of healthcare agencies.	
17.09	Recognize current issues and problems affecting the delivery of healthcare.	
17.10	Correctly and ethically charge for services provided. 	
17.11	Participate in performance improvement activities (quality assurance).	

Additional Information

Laboratory Activities

Laboratory investigations that include scientific inquiry, research, measurement, problem solving, emerging technologies, tools and equipment, as well as, experimental, quality, and safety procedures are an integral part of this career and technical program/course. Laboratory investigations benefit all students by developing an understanding of the complexity and ambiguity of empirical work, as well as the skills required to manage, operate, calibrate and troubleshoot equipment/tools used to make observations. Students understand measurement error; and have the skills to aggregate, interpret, and present the resulting data. Equipment and supplies should be provided to enhance hands-on experiences for students.

Laboratory work is structured so that students begin with basic patient care skills, progress to basic physical therapy skills and then to more advanced physical therapy application and techniques.

Special Notes

This program meets the Department of Health’s education requirements for HIV/AIDS, Domestic Violence and Prevention of Medical Errors.  Although not a requirement for initial licensure, it is a requirement for renewal, therefore the instructor may provide a certificate for renewal purposes to the student verifying these requirements have been met.

If students in this program are seeking a licensure, certificate or registration through the Department of Health, please refer to 456.0635 F.S. for more information on disqualification for a license, certificate, or registration through the Department of Health. 

The Health Careers Core must be taken by all students (secondary, postsecondary adult and postsecondary vocational) planning to complete any Health Occupations program.  Once successfully completed, the core does not need to be repeated at any instructional level.

This program focuses on broad, transferable skills and stresses understanding and demonstration of the following elements of the health care industry; planning, management, finance, technical and production skills, underlying principles of technology, labor issues, community issues and health, safety, and environmental issues.

The cooperative method of instruction is not appropriate for this program.

Outcomes 01-11 are referred to as the Health Careers Core and do not have to be completed if the student has previously completed the Core in another health science program.  The CORE should be taken first or concurrently with the first course in the program.  Following the successful completion of the core, the student is eligible to take the National Health Care Foundation Skill Standards Assessment with instructor approval and the completion of a portfolio.

Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO)

HOSA: Future Health Professionals is the intercurricular career and technical student organization providing leadership training and reinforcing specific career and technical skills. Career and Technical Student Organizations provide activities for students as an integral part of the instruction offered. 

Accommodations

Federal and state legislation requires the provision of accommodations for students with disabilities to meet individual needs and ensure equal access. Postsecondary students with disabilities must self-identify, present documentation, request accommodations if needed, and develop a plan with their counselor and/or instructors. Accommodations received in postsecondary education may differ from those received in secondary education. Accommodations change the way the student is instructed. Students with disabilities may need accommodations in such areas as instructional methods and materials, assignments and assessments, time demands and schedules, learning environment, assistive technology and special communication systems. Documentation of the accommodations requested and provided should be maintained in a confidential file.

Additional Resources

For additional information regarding articulation agreements, Bright Futures Scholarships, Fine Arts/Practical Arts Credit and Equivalent Mathematics and Equally Rigorous Science Courses please refer to:
http://www.fldoe.org/academics/career-adult-edu/career-tech-edu/program-resources.stml