Physical Therapy Professional/Aide

PHYSICAL THERAPY PROFESSIONAL/AIDE-FHS

Meets VPAA One (1) Credit Graduation Requirement
 

The Physical Therapy Professional/Aide generally works in a rehabilitation facility or a hospital facility that works to improve patient mobility, relieve patient pain, and prevent or lessen patient physical disabilities. This program includes an intense study of the human body and treatments necessary to help patients gain mobility after injury, surgery or due to physical ailments/diseases. Human anatomy and various body systems are covered, as well as an introductory study of kinesiology (human movement). The Physical Therapy Professional/Aide works under close supervision of a physical therapist and/or a physical therapy assistant and teaches the necessary skills that are delegated to a Physical Therapy Professional/Aide under their supervision.  Physical Therapy Professional/Aide may work with people who have lost mobility as a result of a completed orthopedic medical procedure, including ligament repair, joint replacement, post-fracture care, back or neck surgery as well as with the geriatric population and the neurologically impaired (stroke victims, spinal cord injured patients). Common tasks delegated to a Physical Therapy Professional/Aide covered may include, but are not limited to ordering supplies, filling out insurance forms, patient transportation, preparing for a patient’s therapy sessions, tracking patient’s use of machines and mobility activities. Students will also have opportunities to explore options in injury prevention and wellness, both in the community and in the corporate sector, including data collection for movement screenings, educating the public on injury prevention and the importance of physical activity.    

Prerequisite:  Recommended successful completion of Algebra I and Biology I. Mobility and moderate strength required.