Physical Therapist Assistant Program Student Handbook

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Updated: July 2021

Prairie State College PTA Program Student Handbook

Table of Contents

Page Welcome to The Physical Therapist Assistant Program 1

PTA Program Faculty 1

Prairie State College Mission, Core Values and Vision Statement 1

PTA Program Mission, Goals & Outcomes 2

PTA Program Accreditation 3

Definition of a Physical Therapist Assistant 3

Career Opportunities for PTA Program Graduates 3

Program Outcomes 3

Degree Earned & Licensure 4

About the PTA Program Curriculum 4

PTA Program Curriculum Sequence 4

PTA Technical Course Descriptions 5

Teaching and Learning in the PTA Program 8

Online Security and Expectations 8

Online Professionalism 9

Essential Skills of The PTA and PTA Student 10

Privacy & Confidentiality Within the PTA Program 11

Prairie State College’s Equal Opportunity and Nondiscrimination Statement 13

PTA Program Complaint Policy 13

Program Assessment 14

Expectations, Safety and the Role of the PTA Student for Participation in Classroom and Lab Activities

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Use and Storage of Hazardous Materials 15

Safety in Dealing with Body Substances and Biohazardous Materials 15

PTA Lab/Classroom Maintenance 15

Informed Consent 16

Pregnancy Policy 16

Health Insurance & Cost Related to Clinical Experiences 16

Academic Honesty 17

Academic Standards of the PTA Program 18

PTA Skill Assessment 18

Competency Prior to Beginning Clinical Experiences 20

Attendance While Enrolled in the PTA Program 21

Grade Appeal Process 23

Student Due Process 23

Program Re-Entry/Readmission 23

Off Campus Learning Experiences 23

Student Success Resources 26

Program Forms 28

Welcome to The Physical Therapist Assistant Program Congratulations on your acceptance into the Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Program at Prairie State College! This program will prepare you to enter the field of physical therapy as a physical therapist assistant. This handbook was developed as a guide to assist you throughout the time you are enrolled in the program. It contains information and policies and procedures that are specific to the PTA program. It should be used in conjunction with all Prairie State College (PSC) policies and procedures. All students and faculty of the PTA program will adhere to existing PSC policies and procedures unless specified in this handbook. If you need clarification of any policies or procedures of the college or program, please do not hesitate to let us know. Prairie State College policies and procedures can be found in the following:

• The college catalog can be accessed at http://catalog.prairiestate.edu/.

• Board policies can be accessed at https://prairiestate.edu/about-us/board-of-trustees/index.aspx.

• The Prairie State College Student Code of Conduct Guide can be accessed at https://prairiestate.edu/assets/global/student-life/pdf/studentcodeofconduct.pdf.

PTA Program Faculty Carol Fawcett, PTA, BS, MEd Assistant Professor/Program Coordinator Rhonda C. White, BS, MSPT Assistant Professor/Clinical Coordinator

Prairie State College Mission Prairie State College fosters collaborative relationships that empower students to achieve their education and career goals. The College embraces its diversity, nurtures life-long learning, and supports community and economic development.

Prairie State College Core Values ● Learning ● Excellence ● Accessibility ● Respect ● Integrity

Prairie State College Vision Statement Prairie State College will offer rigorous academic programs, meet the needs of the local workforce, cultivate the values of sustainability, and demonstrate an awareness of its responsibilities in a global society.

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PTA Program Mission The Prairie State College Physical Therapist Assistant Program will empower students to develop the entry-level skills required to practice as a PTA in the physical therapy field. The educational foundation will foster critical thinking, skill competence, ethical and moral practice, cultural competence, global societal responsibility, and life-long learning.

PTA Program Goals & Outcomes Goal 1: Graduates will demonstrate competency in the entry-level skills of a physical therapist assistants.

• 100% of students will receive a grade of “Pass” in PT-299 Clinical Practicum II. • Graduation rate will be at least 70%.

Goal 2: Graduates will successfully pass the required national licensure examination.

• NPTE pass rate will be at least 85%.

Goal 3: Students will demonstrate safe, legal, ethical, and culturally competent behaviors consistent with APTA core documents and state practice acts.

• Students will be rated entry-level on criteria of the Clinical Performance Instrument that relate to safe, legal, ethical, and culturally competent behavior upon completion of their terminal clinical experience.

Goal 4: The PTA program will promote the health and wellness of society.

• Students will participate in one health and wellness activity prior to graduation.

Goal 5: The PTA program will reflect contemporary practice for the field of physical therapy.

• Faculty will participate in one faculty development activity related contemporary practice in the area they teach annually.

• Curriculum will be consistent with CAPTE accreditation standards and elements and FSBPT licensure exam content.

Goal 6: The PTA program will promote the importance of lifelong learning.

• The PTA Program will host one continuing education course per year for program alumni.

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PTA Program Accreditation Effective July 13, 2021, the Physical Therapist (PTA) program at Prairie State College has been granted Candidate for Accreditation status by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), 3030 Potomac Ave., Suite 100, Alexandria, Virginia 22305-3085; phone: 703-706-3245; email: accreditation@apta.org). If needing to contact the program/institution directly, please call Carol Fawcett PTA, BS, MEd at 708-709-3592 or email cfawcett@prairiestate.edu. Candidate for Accreditation is an accreditation status of affiliation with the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education that indicates the program may matriculate students in technical/professional courses. Achievement of Candidate for Accreditation status does not assure that the program will be granted Initial Accreditation.

Definition of a Physical Therapist Assistant “Physical therapist assistants (PTAs) provide physical therapy services under the direction and supervision of a licensed physical therapist. PTAs help people of all ages who have medical problems, or other health-related conditions that limit their ability to move and perform functional activities in their daily lives. PTAs work in a variety of settings including hospitals, private practices, outpatient clinics, home health, nursing homes, schools, sports facilities, and more. PTAs may also measure changes in the patient's performance as a result of the physical therapy provided. Care provided by a PTA may include teaching patients/clients exercise for mobility, strength and coordination, training for activities such as walking with crutches, canes, or walkers, massage, and the use of physical agents and electrotherapy such as ultrasound and electrical stimulation.”

Source: http://www.apta.org/AboutPTAs/

Career Opportunities for PTA Program Graduates According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of physical therapist assistants is projected to grow 33 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. About 15,100 openings

for physical therapist assistants on average, over the decade. According to the Illinois Department of Employment Security, the profession of physical therapist assistant is projected to grow 10.22% from 2018-2028 in Illinois. Data from the Local Workforce Investment Area provided by the Illinois Department of Employment Security indicates this profession to have a 21.2% growth in Cook County and 19.7% growth in Will County from 2016-2026.

Program Outcomes (to be added when available) For years XXX,two-year averages are as follows: XX% of admitted students graduated from the program; XX% of graduates passed the licensure exam; and XX% of graduates who were seeking employment were employed at six months after passing the NPTE licensure exam.

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Degree Earned & Licensure Upon completion of the Prairie State College Physical Therapist Assistant program graduates will earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS), Physical Therapist Assistant degree. Graduates will be eligible to take the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE), which is required to practice as physical therapist assistant in many states, including in Illinois and Indiana. Licensure in the state of Illinois is controlled by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, Division of Professional Regulation, 320 West Washington St., Springfield, IL 62786, (217) 785-0800 or (217) 782-8556; www.idfpr.com. For information on licensure in other states, go to https://www.fsbpt.org/Secondary-Pages/Exam-Candidates/Applying-for-State-License. It is each student’s responsibility to determine whether he/she whether they meet criteria for state licensure. Graduation from this program does not guarantee a passing score on the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE). Please note that each jurisdiction reviews individual licensure applicant and may refuse licensure to applicants with past criminal convictions.

About the PTA Program Curriculum The PTA program begins each Fall semester and takes 5 semesters to complete. The program is a blended program with the majority of lecture content being presented online while the majority of labs and skill assessments will occur on campus at designated times. It is highly recommended that students admitted into the PTA program have daily access to a computer and internet. PTA technical courses (courses that have the prefix “PTA”) must be completed in sequence. Students will complete off campus clinical education learning experiences at physical therapy facilities in the greater Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana areas. Students are responsible for all costs associated with these clinical experiences which will include transportation, health physical, drug screening and criminal background check. Cost may also include a uniform if specified by a clinical site.

PTA Program Curriculum Sequence Pre-Admission

Course Course Title Credit

BIO 221 Anatomy & Physiology I (required pre-requisite) 4

ENG 101 Composition I (required gen ed) 3

PTA 100 Introduction to Physical Therapy 1

Total 8

First Year

Fall Semester (Semester 1)

Course Course Title Credit

BIO 222 Anatomy & Physiology II 4

PTA 102 Introduction to PT Skills 4

PTA 103 Kinesiology for the Physical Therapist Assistant 4

Total 12

Spring Semester (Semester 2)

COMM 101 Principles of Communication 3

PSYCH 102 Human Growth & Development 3

PTA 110 Conditions, Diseases and Disorders 3

PTA 120 Introduction to Therapeutic Exercise 4

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PTA 130 Therapeutic Interventions & Data Collection I 4

Total 17

Summer Semester (Semester 3)

PTA 150 Therapeutic Interventions & Data Collection II 3 PTA 170 Clinical Experience Prep for Physical Therapist Assistant Students 5

Humanities Course 3

Total 11

Second Year

Fall Semester (Semester 4)

PTA 200 Therapeutic Interventions & Data Collection III 4

PTA 210 Therapeutic Interventions & Data Collection IV 3

PTA 220 Contemporary Topics in Physical Therapy 2

PTA 230 Physical Agents 4

Total

13 Spring Semester (Semester 5)

PTA 270 Career Prep for the Physical Therapist Assistant Student 2

PTA 297 Clinical Practicum I 6

PTA 299 Clinical Practicum II 5

Total 13

Program Total 74

PTA Technical Course Descriptions PTA 100 Introduction to Physical Therapy 1 credit Prerequisites: None This course provides an overview of the profession of physical therapy, the role of the physical therapist assistant in different physical therapy practice settings and areas of treatment and their relationship with other health care professionals. Topics included in this course are adhering to legal and ethical practice standards, performing duties consistent with expectations within the profession and with the core professional documents of the APTA. This course will also include an introduction to communication and documentation in healthcare as well as evidence-based practice. PTA 102 Introduction to Physical Therapy Skills 4 credits Prerequisites: Acceptance in the PTA program This course will introduce the theory, application and documentation of basic physical therapy patient care skills, interventions and data collection skills performed under the direction and supervision of a licensed physical therapist. The course also covers medical emergencies and the role of the physical therapist assistant as well as CPR training. PTA 103 Kinesiology for the Physical Therapist Assistant 4 credits Prerequisites: Acceptance in the PTA program This course will focus on the anatomical, physiological and mechanical principles as they apply to human movement. Principles and skills of palpation, goniometry and manual muscles testing will also be covered in this course.

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PTA 110 Conditions, Diseases and Disorders 3 credits Prerequisites: PTA 100, PTA 102 & PTA 103 with a grade of "C" or better This course covers conditions, diseases, and disorders commonly encountered in the field of physical therapy. Students will be introduced to concepts of both medical and physical therapy screening and diagnosis. Instruction will address pathology of disease within selected systems of the human body and how this pathology may impact the delivery of physical therapy interventions. PTA 120 Introduction to Therapeutic Exercise 4 credits Prerequisites: PTA 100, PTA 102 & PTA 103 with a grade of "C" or better This course covers the foundational concepts of therapeutic exercise and related data collection techniques including, but not limited to stretching, range of motion, resistance training, balance & coordination, breathing exercises, aerobic capacity and endurance training, and aquatic exercise. This course will also include the topics of prevention, health and wellness as well as patient education, communication and documentation as they apply to the application of interventions and data collection techniques covered in this course. PTA 130 Therapeutic Interventions & Data Collection I 4 credits Prerequisites: PTA 100, PTA 102 & PTA 103 with a grade of "C" or better This course will introduce the theory, application and documentation of therapeutic interventions and data collection techniques related to adult, adolescent and pediatric neurologic conditions, disease and disorder that are performed by the physical therapist assistant under the direction and supervision of a licensed physical therapist. PTA 150 Therapeutic Interventions & Data Collection II 3 credits Prerequisites: PTA 110, PTA 120 & PTA 130 with a grade of "C" or better. This course will introduce the theory, application and documentation of therapeutic interventions and data collection techniques related to cardiopulmonary conditions, diseases and disorders that are performed by the physical therapist assistant under the direction and supervision of a licensed physical therapist. The therapeutic management of common conditions, disorders and pathologies of the geriatric population will also be explored. PTA 170 Clinical Experience Prep for Physical Therapist Assistant Students 5 credits Prerequisites: PTA 110, PTA 120 & PTA 130 with a grade of "C" or better. This course will cover policies and procedures as well as topics, case studies and lab activities related to clinical education courses. Physical therapist assistant students will participate in an introductory off- campus clinical experience during this course. PTA 200 Therapeutic Interventions & Data Collection III 4 credits Prerequisites: PTA 150 & PTA 170 with a grade of "C" or better. This course will introduce the theory, application and documentation of therapeutic interventions and data collection techniques related to adult, adolescent and pediatric musculoskeletal conditions, diseases and disorders that are performed by the physical therapist assistant under the direction and supervision of a licensed physical therapist.

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PTA 210 Therapeutic Interventions & Data Collection IV 3 credits Prerequisites: PTA 150 & PTA 170 with a grade of "C" or better. This course will introduce the theory, application and documentation of therapeutic interventions and data collection techniques performed by the physical therapist assistant under the direction and supervision of a licensed physical therapist. Conditions, diseases and disorders of the endocrine, metabolic, integumentary, lymphatic, renal systems across the lifespan are covered. Conditions, diseases, and disorders that affect multiple body systems will also be covered. PTA 220 Contemporary Topics in Physical Therapy 2 credits Prerequisites: PTA 150 & PTA 170 with a grade of "C" or better. This course will cover current topics and trends in the physical therapy field. Portions of this course may be presented by guest speakers. PTA 230 Physical Agents 4 credits Prerequisites: PTA 150 & PTA 170 with a grade of "C" or better. This course will introduce the theory, application and documentation of physical agents used in physical therapy by the PTA under the direction and supervision of a licensed physical therapist assistant. Emphasis is placed on understanding the physiological effects, indications and contraindications and competent application of the physical agent as part of an established plan of care. PTA 270 Career Prep for the Physical Therapist Assistant Student 2 credits Prerequisites: PTA 200, PTA 210, PTA 220 & PTA 230 with a grade of "C" or better This course will cover a variety of topics related to entering the field of physical therapy as a physical therapist assistant. Topics covered include but are not limited to job interviews, developing a resume and cover letter, preparing to take the NPTE, lifelong learning, volunteer work, advocacy and leadership. Physical therapist assistant students will complete a mock NPTE exam on campus as part of this course. PTA 297 Clinical Practicum I 6 credits Prerequisites: PTA 200, PTA 210, PTA 220 & PTA 230 with a grade of "C" or better In this clinical education course, the physical therapist assistant student will apply all previous didactic and clinical knowledge gained in the program in a patient care setting working under the supervision of a PT at an off-campus facility. Physical therapist assistant students will participate in this off-campus clinical experience for 7 weeks. Students will return to campus for 1 week after the off-campus clinical experience to complete activities related to their off-campus learning experience. PTA 299 Clinical Practicum II 5 credits Prerequisites: PTA 200, PTA 210, PTA 220, PTA 230 & PTA 297 with a grade of "C" or better In this terminal clinical education course, the physical therapist assistant will apply all previous didactic and clinical knowledge gained as they work towards independently functioning as a physical therapist assistant working under the supervision of a PT at an off campus facility. Physical therapist assistant students will participate in this off-campus clinical experience for 8 weeks.

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Teaching and Learning in the PTA Program The PTA program utilizes a blended learning model. The program has three components. Online: Didactic (lecture) components of courses are completed online using D2L, the college’s learning management system (LMS). Faculty incorporate lectures, content material, learning activities including required readings, asynchronous forum-based discussions, projects, online quizzes and exams, and some lab activities. PTA students will need daily access to a computer with reliable internet access. It is highly recommended that your computer has a webcam and microphone. Resources may be available through the college should you need assistance. Onsite lab: Onsite laboratory components of courses will occur on campus at designated times. This time with faculty is focused on the development of the student’s communication, problem solving, clinical reasoning, and psychomotor skills required for effective patient care. Faculty supervised open lab hours will be available for practice and review of techniques and skills. An open lab schedule will be provided for each course at the beginning of the semester. The open lab schedule may be subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances and students will be notified. Unless specified in advance by faculty, open lab participation is optional however it is highly recommended that students attend open lab on a regular basis to practice skills learned in lab. Assessment: The majority of quizzes and formative assessments will be computer based. Summative exams such as midterm and final exams will occur on campus in a computer lab. Students will be informed of day/time of these exams in advance. Skill assessments will also occur on campus. Some skills assessments will occur during scheduled lab times while others may occur outside of scheduled lab time. Students will be informed of day/time of skill assessments in advance. Off-Campus Learning Experiences: The clinical component of the program consists of practice under the supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist or Physical Therapist Assistant in an off-site clinical practice environment such as a hospital, outpatient facility, skilled nursing facility or rehabilitation center. Additional details regarding off- campus learning experiences can be found on page 23 of this handbook and in the PSC PTA Clinical Education Handbook. On occasion, students may visit an off-campus facility to observe or learn about a skill, technique or topic covered in the curriculum. During these off-campus learning experiences, students will attend with a PTA faculty member.

Online Security and Expectations All users of the College’s learning management system, Desire2Learn (D2L), are responsible for maintaining the security of usernames, passwords, and other access credentials as required. An account is given to an individual for the exclusive use by that individual. Attempting to discover another user’s password or attempts to gain unauthorized access to another person’s files or mail is prohibited. Electronic mail communication shall not be used to create, communicate, repeat or otherwise convey or receive any message or information which is illegal, indecent, obscene, defamatory, likely to constitute harassment of a College student or staff member or any other individual, likely to cause disruption in the College, or is otherwise inconsistent with the College’s curriculum and educational mission.

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Electronic mail users shall respect the privacy rights of others and shall not attempt to access any electronic mail communications not directed to them or intended to be received by them. See Board policy C-21: Use of Information Resources Including World Wide Web and Internet for complete policy.

Online Professionalism Due to the blended nature of the PSC Physical Therapist Assistant Program, students will participate in a variety of online activities with their fellow classmates such as discussions, group projects and problem-solving activities. It is expected that PTA students always conduct themselves in a professional manner while participating in program activities including online activities and email communications. These guidelines for online behavior and interaction will assist you in maintaining a professional demeanor while participating in online program activities: Online Security • Don't share your username and/or password with anyone. • Change your password if you think someone else might know it. • Always log out of programs and computers if they are not yours.

General Online Participation Guidelines When communicating online in class activities or via email, you should always: • Treat your instructor and classmates with respect in email or any other communication. • Use clear and concise language. • Remember that all college level communication should have correct spelling and grammar (this

includes discussion boards). • Avoid slang terms such as “wassup?” and texting abbreviations such as “u” instead of “you.” • Use standard fonts such as Ariel, Calibri or Times new Roman and use a size 10 or 12 pt. font • Avoid using the caps lock feature AS IT CAN BE INTERPRETTED AS YELLING. • Be cautious when using humor or sarcasm as tone is sometimes lost in an email or discussion post

and your message might be taken seriously or sound offensive. • Be careful with personal information (both yours and other’s).

Email Netiquette When you send an email to your instructor, college staff, or classmates, you should: • You are required to use your PSC email when communicating with PTA faculty. • Use a descriptive subject line. • Be brief. • Sign your message with your name and return e-mail address. • Think before you send the e-mail to more than one person. Does everyone really need to see your

message? • Be sure you REALLY want everyone to receive your response when you click, “reply all.” • Be sure that the message author intended for the information to be passed along before you click the

“forward” button. • Do not send confidential information via e-mail. Discussion Board Netiquette When posting on the Discussion Board in your online class, you should: • Make posts that are on topic and within the scope of the course material. • Take your posts seriously and review and edit your posts before sending. • Be as brief as possible while still making a thorough comment.

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• Always give proper credit when referencing or quoting another source. • Be sure to read all messages in a thread before replying. • Don’t repeat someone else’s post without adding something of your own to it. • Avoid short, generic replies such as, “I agree.” You should include why you agree or add to the previous

point. • Always be respectful of others’ opinions even when they differ from your own. • When you disagree with someone, you should express your differing opinion in a respectful, non-

critical way. • Do not make personal or insulting remarks. • Be open-minded. NOTE: Student may NOT video or audio record face to face or virtual classroom session/meetings without consent of the instructor.

Essential Skills of The PTA and PTA Student Physical therapist assistants perform a variety of tasks. Under the direction and supervision of physical therapists, they provide part of a patient’s treatment. To safely and competently perform their required job tasks PTAs and SPTAs must be able to perform the following essential skills:

Essential Skills and Abilities

Description

Physical Strength, Endurance & Motor Skills

• Ability to push/pull and lift objects more than 50-100 pounds

• Perform patient care for 8-12 hours; stand for prolonged periods of time

• Ability to safely bend, twist, and lift to assist a patient moving from one surface to another.

• Ability to participate in all aspects of therapeutic interventions.

• Ability to perform chest compressions necessary for CPR.

• Possess the coordination, balance, and strength to safely guard and protect a patient during all related physical therapy interventions.

• Possess the agility to move quickly to ensure patient safety.

• Possess manual dexterity to safely grasp, manipulate small objects and dials, feel pulse, muscle tone, bony landmarks and to hold and use a writing instrument for documentation.

Communication Skills

• Ability to effectively communicate in verbally and in writing in English.

• Ability to read and understand technical and professional materials.

• Ability to demonstrate sensitivity, confidentiality and respect when speaking with patients, peers, faculty and staff.

Hearing and Visual Requirements

• Normal or corrected visual acuity sufficient to observe a patient’s response to treatment interventions, read or set parameters on physical therapy equipment, observe and assess the environment, gather information from medical records and professional literature.

• Ability to hear and respond to monitors, calls for assistance, alert systems, and verbal directions.

Intellectual, Conceptual and Cognitive Skills

• Ability to concentrate on moderate to fine detail with frequent interruption .

• Ability to attend to multiple functions and patients often for an extended period of time.

• Critical thinking and problem-solving ability sufficient for clinical judgement.

• Ability to select and use technical principles, ideas, and theories in a problem-solving situation and adjust procedures accordingly.

• Ability to work independently and as a team

Professional Attitude and Demeanor

• Emotional and mental health necessary to effectively apply knowledge and exercise appropriate judgment.

• Ability to demonstrate flexibility and adaptability.

• Ability to practice legal, moral and ethical behavior and accountability.

• Ability to self-evaluate.

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• Ability to accept feedback constructive criticism.

• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

• Ability to interact effectively with patients, families, supervisors, and co-workers regardless of their race, sex, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, sexual orientation, or disability.

• Ability to portray professional behavior in all areas, including professional presentation, academic and professional responsibility, and commitment to learning.

• Ability to recognize and respond appropriately to potentially emergent situations.

Students enrolled in the PSC PTA program must be able to be perform all the essential skills described above. If you are unable to perform any of the skills listed, you should speak to the program coordinator to determine if reasonable accommodations can be made for on-campus course activities and activities performed during clinical experiences. If your ability to perform any of these skills changes while you are enrolled in the program it is your responsibility to inform the PTA program coordinator.

Privacy & Confidentiality Within the PTA Program

Student PTA students are expected to maintain strict confidentiality with respect to other students, all information related to clinical experiences including but not limited to patient records and other information. Information regarding confidentiality guidelines and other appropriate state and federal regulations is initially presented in the mandatory PTA program orientation through a review of this policy and PTA 100 Introduction to Physical Therapy in semester 1 of the program. The topic of privacy and confidentiality is then threaded throughout the PTA curriculum. All students are responsible for taking all measures to maintain confidentiality of all information discussed between fellow classmates, faculty, and patients in a clinical setting. Confidentiality also extends to social media. All students must refrain from posting detailed medical information, images, negative comments regarding a classmate, faculty, patient, clinical site or partner, and anything that could be considered a threat or harassing statement on any social networking site or message board. Even if this information is posted on a student’s personal page or account, posting of this information will be treated as a HIPAA violation and could lead to dismissal from the clinical site and program. Students are expected and required to maintain patient confidentiality. Student may NOT video or audio record face to face or virtual classroom sessions/meetings without consent of the instructor. Failure to comply with this policy in any venue whether in person or online will result in immediate dismissal from the Program. All HIPAA and FERPA rules and regulations should be followed at all times. Students may not discuss any content of a PTA technical course quiz/exam or any type of skill assessment with another student until the assessments are completed by all students in the course. Any student who discusses any content of a PTA quiz/exam or any type of skill assessment will be subject to disciplinary action which may include dismissal from the program. Any violation of program, college or off campus clinical facility policy regarding privacy & confidentiality may be considered grounds for dismissal from the program. PTA students will review this policy upon admission to the program and sign the appropriate form agreeing to abide by this policy while enrolled in the PTA program. Faculty PTA faculty are expected to abide by all Prairie State College policies/procedures related to privacy and confidentiality. All faculty must participate in mandated training for FERPA and Title IX as directed by

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the College. In addition to abiding by the Prairie State College policies/procedures related to privacy and confidentiality, PTA faculty are expected to adhere to the following:

Discussing a Student's Academic Performance A PTA student's academic performance is part of his/her education record, and discussing the student's performance with anyone other than the student (or another school official with a “legitimate educational interest”) is a violation of FERPA unless the student has signed a designated form identifying a person whom they give permission to discuss information. PTA faculty will refrain from discussing the academic performance, grades, or other parts of a student's education record with anyone other than the student. All discussions with PTA students regarding academic performance, behavioral issues, or personal issues should be discussed in an area away from the public and other students. The PTA faculty offices may be used to meet with students in private. If a PTA faculty office is not available, a room that allows for the door to be closed should be used. Returning Assignments, Papers, or Exams It is a violation of FERPA regulations to leave any graded assignments, papers, or exams unattended where another individual could view the work of students. All PTA student work will be directly returned to the student who produced the work. Maintaining and Securing Student Records, Information, and Work All PTA faculty must maintain compliance with FERPA regulations for maintaining and securing student records, information, and work. Student records will be maintained in a locked file cabinet in the faculty office or in a locked cabinet in a designated area in the Allied Health & Emergency Services Department.

Clinical education faculty will be educated on expectations of maintaining student’s privacy and confidentiality prior to a student being assigned. Clinical education faculty will be notified of expectations via the PTA Program’s Clinical Education Handbook and in the Clinical Affiliation Agreement. Any PTA student who believes that their rights to privacy/confidentiality are not being honored should report the incident to the program coordinator or another college administrator. A student may also file a complaint through PSC website at https://prairiestate.edu/current-students/student-complaint-form.aspx. Additional information regarding student’s rights as defined by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) can be found at https://prairiestate.edu/apply-reg-pay/how-to-enroll/ferpa.aspx All students have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by Prairie State College to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is:

Family Policy Compliance Office U.S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20202-5901

Web address: www.ed.gov/offices/OM/fpco/

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Prairie State College’s Equal Opportunity and Nondiscrimination Statement Prairie State College does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, age, gender, disability, ancestry, marital status, military discharge status, national origin, veteran status, sex, sexual orientation, or other non-merit factors in its educational programs, activities, or employment policies in conformance with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Illinois Preventing Sexual Violence in Higher Education Act, and relevant sections of the Illinois Human Rights Act. The college's Title IX Coordinator oversees compliance with all aspects of the sexual discrimination, harassment and misconduct policy. Anyone (including third parties) wishing to make a report relating to sex/gender-based discrimination or harassment may do so by reporting the concern to the Title IX Coordinator: Manager of Compliance, Effectiveness, Planning and Accreditation 708-709-3653 Office 2143. (For non-student concerns, report to the Assistant Title IX Coordinator: Executive Director, Human Resources, Room 2402, (708) 709-3585).

PTA Program Complaint Policy

Informal Student Complaints Students displeased with any aspect of their academic experience, outside of final grades are encouraged to initiate complaint redress with the source. Students with issues regarding classroom instruction are first encouraged to address the issue with their instructor. If remedy cannot be achieved the student is directed to the Dean, Allied Health & Emergency Services or Administrator of the division for reconciliation of the concern. The Dean works closely with the student and related faculty to resolve the informal complaint. Formal Student Complaints A complaint is not considered formal until a student has completed a student complaint form. Students can access this form via the college website at https://prairiestate.edu/current-students/student-complaint-form.aspx. Formal student complaints are triaged and investigated by the Manager of Compliance and Effectiveness. The Manager of Compliance and Effectiveness presents recommendations for remediation to the Dean or Administrator. Complaints about course delivery including rigor or alleged faculty misconduct are redressed directly by the subject area Dean. General Complaints Regarding the PTA Program Any complaint/grievance related to the Prairie State College PTA program that fall outside of due process that include, but are not limited to, complaints from clinical education sites, employers of graduates, and the general public should be directed to the PTA program coordinator, PTA clinical education coordinator or Dean, Allied Health & Emergency Services. Complaints will be maintained in accordance with board policy C-18 Records Retention and Dispositions. Additional information regarding complaint and grievance procedures can be found in the PSC Board Policies at https://prairiestate.edu/about-us/board-of-trustees/index.aspx Complaints Regarding Accreditation Complaints regarding accreditation must be submitted in writing to: Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education American Physical Therapy Association 3030 Potomac Ave. Alexandria, VA 22305-3085 703-706-3245 capteonline.org

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CAPTE recommends those wishing to file a complaint contact them by phone regarding the format of formal complaints. Anonymous formal complaints are not accepted as complaints.

There will be no retaliation for any complaint or grievance filed with or regarding the PTA program.

Program Assessment Regular assessment of institutional, program and education outcomes will occur in accordance with the set timelines of the College and the PTA program. Qualitative and quantitative assessment tools will be used to review institutional, program and education outcomes. The review of the PTA program will be managed by the PTA program coordinator. Items to be reviewed will include but will not be limited to the following: Course sequence, course content, achievement of course objectives, and achievement of program goals and outcomes.

Expectations, Safety and the Role of the PTA Student for Participation in Classroom and Lab Activities

The academic portion of the PTA program is the beginning of professional training for students who are preparing to enter the field of physical therapy. Students are expected to adhere to all information outlined in the Prairie State College Student Code of Conduct Guide as well as Board policies F-15 Student Conduct and F-25: Academic Code of Conduct. PTA students are always expected to behave in a safe manner while on the PSC campus and during any off-campus learning experience. The PTA student is also expected to demonstrate behaviors that are consistent with the APTA Guide for Conduct of the Physical Therapist Assistant and Core Values for the Physical Therapist and Physical Therapist Assistant at all times. Should a student violate any college or program policy or procedures and/or present themselves in a manner that would be inconsistent with the expected professional behaviors of the physical therapy profession the following will generally be followed:

• First offense: Students will meet with program coordinator to discuss situation and steps to ensure the issues does not persist.

• Second offense: Students will be referred to Dean, Allied Health & Emergency Services and/or Dean of Student Development, Academic Advising to determine appropriate disciplinary action.

• Third offense: Student will be dismissed from the PTA program regardless of current academic standing.

Note: Depending on the severity of each situation steps 1 and/or 2 may be bypassed. As part of their learning experience, PTA students are expected to fully participate in all lab activities related to PTA course work and will be required to participate in role playing activities/patient simulation in classroom and lab settings where they will be expected to play the role of both the therapist and the patient. If circumstances arise that limit a student’s ability to fully participating in lab activity it is the student’s responsibility to inform the PTA faculty. PTA students are required to inform faculty of any precautions or contraindications that directly apply to them as related to any skills performed in the PTA program. Medical documentation may be required and will be determined on a case by case basis. PTA students may only practice skills on campus in the designated PTA classroom with faculty permission. PTA faculty must be present in the building and be aware that students are practicing skills. Skills may only be practiced after instruction by faculty. Use of physical agents may only occur under the supervision of the PTA program faculty. Any questions or concerns are to be brought to the attention of the faculty and/or PTA program coordinator immediately. Any PTA students misusing laboratory

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equipment or conducting themselves in a knowingly unsafe manner may be subject to disciplinary action. PTA students will review and sign the PTA Student Informed Consent and Participation Agreement. This signed form will be maintained in the PTA student’s file.

Use and Storage of Hazardous Materials All chemicals used within the PTA program will be stored and used according to product labeling and manufacture recommendations.

Safety in Dealing with Body Substances and Biohazardous Materials PTA students will receive instructions in universal precautions and dealing with biohazardous waste in the first semester in PTA 102-Introduction to PT Skills and continuing throughout their study of PTA coursework. Students must demonstrate an understanding of, and utilize, universal precautions in all lab and off-campus learning activities. Students are required to wash hands at the beginning of all lab sessions, skill assessments and before working with each lab partner. In the event a student is exposed to body substances or hazardous materials in the college, universal precautions for exposure to body substances should be followed and a PTA faculty member should be notified immediately. If a student encounters any known biohazardous material or unknown substance while on campus a PTA faculty member or any college staff should be notified immediately. Students should not attempt to clean up any biohazardous material or unknown substance. Faculty will notify PSC Facilities and Operations for cleanup. While participating in any off campus learning experiences, PTA students will abide by all facility policies and procedures related to safety in dealing with body substances and hazardous material. This information will be reviewed with the PTA student during orientation to the clinical facility. If a student is exposed to body substances and hazardous material during their clinical experience the following procedures should be followed:

• Student should notify their CI immediately and follow all facility protocols.

• Student should contact CEC immediately.

• If the facility requires an incident report or any other documentation be completed by the student, the student must have the CEC review the document prior to signing.

• Student should send the signed document to CEC with 24 hours of signing.

PTA Lab/Classroom Maintenance To maintain the equipment and supplies available to all students, classrooms and labs must be returned to their original condition after use. This includes returning all equipment and supplies to its designated storage area and straightening tables and chairs. Mats, tables, bolsters, and other equipment should be cleaned after each use with disinfectant spray/wipes. Shoes are not to be worn on treatment

mats/tables. If equipment appears broken or is not work properly, students should inform faculty as soon as possible.

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Informed Consent All PTA students are expected to participate in all classrooms, labs, and off-campus learning experiences while enrolled in the PTA program. Exception will be made for medical conditions verified by a doctor’s note. During classroom and lab activities, students will be expected to play the role of both “therapist” and “patient” in mock clinical scenarios. To enhance learning experiences in the PTA program, students may be photographed or videotaped by faculty, a fellow student, or a representative of the college PTA students will review and sign the PTA Student Informed Consent and Participation Agreement. This signed form will be maintained in the PTA student’s file. Refusal to sign this form or participate in classrooms, labs, and clinical education experiences may impact a course grade and ability to continue to progress in the PTA program. During the required program orientation, PTA students will be informed of information related to off - campus learning experiences that includes, but is not limited to, health screening, drug testing, criminal background check, and potential costs related to clinical affiliations This information is also published on the PTA program website at https://prairiestate.edu/academics/academic-programs/allied-health/physicaltherapistassistant.aspx under the “Off Campus Learning Experience” tab and in the PTA Program Admissions Information and Procedures booklet received during the admission process. PTA student will be required to sign the Acknowledgement of Receipt of Relevant Clinical Information form to acknowledge they have received this information. PTA students will be reminded of this information each semester.

Pregnancy Policy The PTA program requires students to fully participate in all classroom lab activities and off-campus learning activities. During classroom lab activities students will be in the role of the “therapist” and “patient”. These activities may include, but are not limited to, pushing, pulling, and lifting heavy objects and people (see full list of essential skills on page 8.) If a student should learn that she is pregnant it is strongly recommended that she inform the PTA program coordinator immediately. The student will be required to submit a statement from a qualified licensed practitioner indicating the student’s continued ability and/or limitations related to participation in the required classroom, lab activities, or clinic-based learning activities. Reasonable and appropriate actions will be implemented by the PTA Program faculty. Should the student require pregnancy accommodations they can contact the Dean of Equity and Inclusion. Additional information pregnancy accommodations can be found at https://prairiestate.edu/student-services/health-and-safety/title9/index.aspx.

Health Insurance & Cost Related to Clinical Experiences Although health insurance is not a requirement for admission and enrollment in the Prairie State College PTA program, PTA students may be required to provide proof of health insurance prior to participating in an off-campus learning experience if a clinical site requires the student to be covered by health insurance. Clinical sites that require a student to be covered by health insurance have the right to refuse a student without coverage. An alternate clinical placement is not guaranteed if a student is refused by the initial clinical site assigned. This may delay progress through the PTA curriculum.

Prairie State College students taking 6-12 credit hours or more, and their dependents are eligible to purchase student health insurance. Access the brochure, enrollment forms and other information at https://www.1stagency.com/BuyCoveragePrairieStateCollege. Students are responsible for all healthcare costs related to clinical experiences which may include, but are not limited to, health physical prior to beginning clinical affiliations, immunizations, criminal

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background check, transportation to/from clinical site, required uniform and any emergency medical costs. The PSC PTA program or assigned clinical facilities will not assume any cost for medical treatment at any time.

Academic Honesty

Statement from the Prairie State College Faculty Senate

Responsibilities of students:

• Submit your own original work.

• Carefully and clearly cite all language and ideas that are not your own.

• Be aware of the challenges and complexities of source use.

• Understand the appropriate level of collaboration allowed for an assignment: working with others is helpful, but it can make it hard to separate your work from your classmates’.

• Know that it is ultimately your responsibility to be academically honest: being unaware of the rules of academic honesty is not an excuse.

• Ask for help when you are unclear. Academic honesty is vital to the Prairie State College community. It is a cornerstone of the faculty-student relationship and central to your success as a student. Both faculty and students must work to uphold standards of academic honesty and institutional integrity. What instructors can do to help:

• Define academic honesty in the context of their courses.

• Clarify the consequences for violations.

Consequences for academic dishonesty are based on the severity of the offense and are determined at the discretion of the instructor. Consequences can include mandatory revision of an assignment, failure of an assignment, failure of a class, or suspension from the College. Remember: academic dishonesty is avoidable. If you have any questions, ask your instructor. Common Types of Academic Dishonesty

• Cheating: Turning in work that is not your own, copying answers, acquiring advance copies of exams, using materials that are not permitted, etc. This includes using a website or app to solve problems for you and then presenting the answers or work as your own.

• Plagiarism: Inappropriate source use such as poor paraphrasing, incorrect citations, and unattributed source use. All language from sources must be in quotation marks and all ideas taken from sources should be cited.

• Repurposing: Submitting work from another class or institution and without instructor consent.

• Imitation/Proxy: Having someone else represent you for the purpose of doing your work.

• Falsification/Fabrication: Falsely attributing ideas or language to a source. This includes falsifying data in a lab.

• Enabling dishonesty: Knowingly allowing another student to submit or copy from your own work.

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Academic Standards of the PTA Program All PTA technical courses (course with the prefix “PTA”) must be taken in the sequence outlined on page 4 of this handbook. PTA students must earn a grade of “C” or better in all PTA technical courses to be eligible to progress to the next semester. A student who does not earn a grade of “C” or better in any PTA technical course will not be eligible to progress to the next semester and will be dismissed from the PTA program. No exceptions will be made.

The course grading scale is as follows: A = 93 - 100% B = 86 - 92% C = 80 - 85% F = Below 80%

Any student with a course grade of 83% or lower at midterm will be required to meet with the PTA program coordinator and/or course faculty to develop a plan for success. Students experiencing academic difficulty have a responsibility to seek assistance from course faculty. DO NOT WAIT UNTIL MIDTERM IF YOU ARE HAVING DIFFICULTY WITH ANY COURSE MATERIAL OR SKILLS PRIOR TO MIDTERM. Meetings can occur during faculty office hours or a student can request to schedule a face to face or meeting via Google meet.

PTA Assessment of Skills Many PTA technical courses contain both theoretical concepts and skill development. In all courses with physical therapy interventions and/or data collection skills, students will be required to complete a practical exam and/or skill check to demonstrate competency and safety in skill performance. PTA students must achieve a minimum score of 80% and achieve a “Pass” on all Pass/Fail items on the practical exam or skill check. In the event a student receives a “FAIL” on ONE “PASS/FAIL” item on any skill assessment the maximum grade that can be achieved is a 79% regardless of points earned in other areas of the skill assessment. Failure of any additional “PASS/FAIL” items will results in an additional 10% grade deduction for each additional “FAIL” item. In the event the student’s final score is below an 80% or they “Fail” an item on the assessment, they will be given ONE opportunity to repeat the skill check or practical exam. A student will be required to repeat a specific component of a skill check or practical exam or the entire skill check or practical exam in the event safety and competency of a skill is not demonstrated. Whether a student must demonstrate safety and competency through repeating the entire skill assessment or a portion of the skill assessment will be at the discretion of the faculty administering the assessment. The initial grade earned on a skill assessment is the grade recorded in the D2L grade book. When a student repeats a skill assessment, a second PTA faculty member will be present and will provide an independent assessment. Failure to pass any skill check or practical exam on the second attempt will result in failure of the course regardless of the student’s overall grade on other course work. A grade of “F” will be assigned as a course grade regardless of the student’s overall grade on other course work.

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The following differentiates between a lab check off, skill check, and practical exam in the PTA program: Lab Check Off A lab check off is an informal skill assessment that is completed during lab time with the instructor. Lab check offs are used to assess skills that are not frequently used in the clinical setting however may be encountered on occasion. A student must show competency and safety by passing all critical safety elements related to the skills. Each element is graded as pass/fail. A student who is not able to demonstrate competency will be required to complete remediation activities and reassessed until competency is demonstrated. Skill Check A skill check is a formal assessment that is used to determine a student’s ability to competently and safely demonstrate a therapeutic intervention or data collection skill. A skill check may assess a single skill or a combination of skills in a course. Practical Exam A practical exam is an assessment of student’s ability to competently and safely demonstrate a therapeutic intervention or data collection skill based on a clinical scenario. A practical exam may assess a single skill or a combination of skills in a course. For all modes of skill assessment, “Critical Safety & Performance Elements” are used to determine competency and safety in the application of therapeutic interventions and data collection skills. These

elements are marked by the symbol on each all skill assessment rubrics. These elements are graded

as Pass/Fail In the event a student does not demonstrate competency on a practical exam or skill check by earning a minimum score of 80% and achieving a “Pass” on all Pass/Fail items, the following remediation procedures will be followed:

• Final grade and areas of weakness will be discussed with student within 24 hours of completing the skill check and practical exams.

• Student will be provided with a written remediation plan to assist in their success when repeating the practical exam or skill check. Both faculty and student will sign the document to acknowledge the discussion.

• If rationale, indications and precautions, contraindications are only being repeated, the student may be given the option to do retake in writing or verbally.

• Retake of the practical exam or skill check will be scheduled by instructor and may be during or outside of class hours.

Students may not discuss any content of a PTA practical exam or skill check with another student until all students have completed the skill assessment. This is considered a violation of academic honesty and any student who discusses any content of a PTA practical exam or skill check will be subject to disciplinary action.

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Competency Prior To Beginning Clinical Experiences The Prairie State College PTA Program will assess each PTA student’s ability to demonstrate competency and safety in the application of data collection, therapeutic interventions, and professionalism skills prior to beginning of each clinical experience. Competency and safety will be assessed through lab check offs, skill checks and/or practical exams conducted in the laboratory courses of the PTA technical courses. Students will not be approved for any clinical assignment until they have successfully demonstrated the requisite skills.

Students will be required to demonstrate competency and safety for the following:

FIRST YEAR – SEMESTER 1 PTA 102 Introduction to PT Skills • Patient Education

• Mental Function & Cognition

• Pain Assessment

• Vital Signs

• Infection Control (handwashing, isolation tech, sterile tech)

• Medical Emergencies & CPR

• Edema Assessment

• Body mechanics

• Bed mobility

• Transfer training

• Wheelchair mobility & Management

• Gait Training

• Assistive Devices

• Functional/ADL Training & Adaptive Devices

• Anthropometric measurements (girth, height, weight, BMI) **

• Environmental Assessment (assessed via project)

PTA 103 Kinesiology for the Physical Therapist Assistant Data Collection Techniques for

• UE ROM

• LE ROM

• Spine ROM

• UE MMT

• LE MMT

• Spine MMT

• Muscle Length Testing

• Posture Analysis (assessed via project)

• Gait Analysis (assessed via project)

FIRST YEAR – SEMESTER 2

PTA 120 Introduction to Therapeutic • Patient Education

• Balance & Coordination

• Range of Motion

• Resistive Exercises

• Stretching/Flexibility

• Breathing Exercises

• Aerobic Conditioning

• Endurance Interventions for Cardiac, Deconditioned & Chronically Ill Patient**

• Aquatic Activities (assessed via project)

PTA 130 Therapeutic Interventions & Data Collection I (neuro) • Identification of Motor Milestones

• Pediatric Developmental Positioning

• Interventions and Data Collection Techniques for: o Spinal Cord Injury o CVA o TBI Interventions o Degenerative Neurologic Conditions, Diseases and

Disorders o Pediatric Neurologic Conditions, Diseases and

Disorders

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FIRST YEAR – SEMESTER 3

PTA 150 Therapeutic Interventions & Data Collection II (cardiopulmonary)

Interventions and Data Collection Techniques Patients with cardiovascular disease

• Patients with pulmonary disease

• Patients with General Deconditioning

• Geriatric Patients

PTA 170 Clinical Experience Prep for Physical Therapist Assistant Students

Comprehensive labs and skill assessments on previous course material covered in curriculum.

SECOND YEAR – SEMESTER 4

PTA 200 Therapeutic Interventions & Data Collection III (musculoskeletal)

Interventions and Data Collection Techniques for:

• Knee and Hip Conditions, Diseases and Disorders

• Ankle/Foot Conditions, Diseases and Disorders

• Spine Conditions, Diseases and Disorders

• Shoulder Complex Conditions, Diseases and Disorders

• Elbow/Forearm and Wrist/Hand Conditions, Diseases and Disorders

• Limb Loss

• Pediatric Musculoskeletal Conditions, Diseases and Disorders

PTA 210 Therapeutic Interventions & Data Collection IV (endocrine, metabolic, integumentary, lymphatic, renal systems) • Interventions and Data Collection Techniques for Wound

Care (isolation tech, sterile tech, application and removal of dressing/agents)

• Interventions and Data Collection Techniques for: o Integumentary conditions, diseases and disorders o Metabolic and Endocrine conditions, diseases and

disorders o GI & GU conditions, diseases and disorders o Obstetrics o RA/JRA o Fibromyalgia o CRPS o Complex Patient

PTA 230 Physical Agents • Basic Massage Techniques

• Superficial Thermal Agents o HP o CP

• Ultrasound

• Diathermy

• Portable Mechanical Traction

• TENS

• NMES

• HVG

• IFC

• Iontophoresis**

• Biofeedback**

• Intermittent Compression

*Communication is assessed on all skill assessments.

Skills designated with ** will be assessed via lab check off.

Attendance While Enrolled in the PTA Program The nature of the PTA Program necessitates the student’s attend face to face class meetings as scheduled and actively participate in all synchronous (live) and asynchronous online course activities in order to obtain maximum benefit from the course, and ultimately master the knowledge and skills to practice as a competent PTA. Students are responsible for prompt attendance and participation in all curriculum courses. Attendance is recorded.

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Attendance for Scheduled PTA Program Course Activities on Campus When present in class and lab sessions, PTA students are expected to be active participants. The learning activities are designed to prepare you to practice in the physical therapy field in a safe, competent, and professional manner. While we acknowledge that it is the student’s right to decide whether to attend class and that circumstances may interfere with class attendance on occasion, the student should understand the following:

• Instructors will not repeat missed material. Course material may contain information that is difficult to understand if a student elects not to be present for on campus class activities or “live” virtual class activities and meetings. Students are encouraged to attend open lab sessions and meet with the instructor to determine what they can do to acquire the course material missed.

• You must notify the instructor that you will be missing class in advance at least 30 minutes prior to the start of class by email or Google Voice #.

A student is considered tardy if they miss less than 25% of scheduled face to face class time. Two incidents of being late is equal to one absence. A student is considered absent if they miss more than 25% of scheduled face to face class time. Attendance for PTA Program Online Course Activities Attendance for online course activities will be determined by the student’s attendance for any required “live” virtual class activities and through review of the “Class Progress” in D2L. Through review of “Class Progress” faculty review content reviewed and completed, login history, and total log in time. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure they have access to a computer and reliable internet connection. It is also the student’s responsibility to communicate any issues with technology or internet to faculty in a timely manner. A student will be considered absent from the online portion of a course if:

• Student is not present for any required “live” virtual class activity.

• A student misses more than 25% any required “live” virtual class activity.

• Does not complete at least 90% of “need to know” course content in each module of a PTA course.

A student is considered tardy if they miss less than 25% any required “live” virtual class activity. Two incidents of being late is equal to one absence. If a student has 3 absences (face to face and online combined) in a course that is scheduled for 16 weeks or 2 absences in a course that is scheduled for 8 weeks the student will be dismissed from the program and a course grade of “F” will be given. Extenuating circumstances will be judged case by case by program faculty in consultation with the Dean of Allied Health & Emergency Services when necessary. Documentation may be required to deem an absence as “excused”. See the PTA Clinical Handbook for policy related to attendance during clinical experiences.

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Grade Appeal Process A student has the right to express concern about his or her grade, keeping in mind that faculty members have sole responsibility for assigning grades. The right to appeal a course grade assumes a corresponding responsibility on the part of the student to act in good faith. It is the student’s responsibility to communicate any concerns with the professor throughout the semester. Students may appeal their course grade for the following reasons:

1. The grade is based on an error in calculation. 2. The grade assigned did not follow the grading criteria stated on the course syllabus.

A student may only appeal a course grade. A grade on an individual course assessment such as an exam/quiz, skill assessment or project may not be appealed. For more information on the Procedures for Grade Appeal go to https://prairiestate.edu/academics/procedure-for-grade-appeal/index-review.aspx

Student Due Process Prairie State College shall recognize that all students have the right to due process when charged with an alleged violation of a rule, policy, or regulation of the College. The PTA program will adhere to the Board policy F-17 Student Due Process. Students can access this policy at https://prairiestate.edu/about-us/board-of-trustees/board-policies/board-policies-section-f/student-due-process.aspx

Program Re-Entry/Readmission Students who withdraw from PTA technical courses or earn a grade of an “F” in a PTA technical courses may be eligible for re-entry into the program. A student dismissed by the PTA program for any reason other than academic failure is not eligible for re-entry. PTA courses must be completed in sequence. Students seeking re-entry to the program must meet with the PTA Program Coordinator prior to the semester they are seeking re-entry to develop a re-entry plan. Re-entering students may be required to complete written and/or skill competencies to ensure they have maintained skill and knowledge previously learned in the program and may be required to re-take previous course work if competency cannot be demonstrated. Students must complete the program within 150% of the normally expected time. Students must meet all PTA program and College requirements for re-entry and/or readmission. Re-entry to the PTA program will be on a space available basis.

Off Campus Learning Experiences

As a requirement of the PTA program curriculum, enrolled students will complete 680 hours of off campus learning experiences at facilities that offer physical therapy services. As a requirement to participate in off-campus learning experiences, all PTA Students must complete a drug screening, criminal background check and health physical with evidence of updated immunizations. All costs associated with off campus learning experiences are the student’s responsibility.

Criminal Background Check If a student’s criminal background check presents a positive personal history a student may not be allowed to participate in required off campus clinical experiences and thus may need to withdraw from the PTA program. Please note, some facilities may require an additional criminal background check. Cost of all criminal background checks will be at the student’s expense.

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Disqualifying offenses defined in Section 955.160 of the Health Care Worker Background Check Act is can be found at http://www.idph.state.il.us/nar/disconvictions.htm. If the student believes that the information is in error, they may obtain a fingerprint background check, at his/her own expense, to refute or confirm the initial findings. Felony convictions may adversely affect their ability to sit for the NPTE licensure exam and/or the ability to be hired as a licensed physical therapist assistant. It is recommended students review licensure requirements in the state they plan to seek licensure. Information on individual state licensing requirements can be found at https://www.fsbpt.org/Secondary-Pages/Exam-Candidates/Applying-for-State-License. Drug Screening All students must successfully pass a 10-panel drug screening through CastleBranch as a condition for participation in an off-campus learning experience. Authorization for the drug screen shall be furnished by the student and the student shall be responsible for the required fees. The drug screening must be ordered through CastleBranch, available locations to do the screening will be listed through CastleBranch. The student must complete the drug screening at one of those locations. The results are provided from the testing site to CastleBranch for documentation. In the event of a positive drug screen (not cleared by your healthcare provider), you will not be eligible for participation in off campus learning experience and may have to withdraw from the program. If the initial drug screen is positive, the student may refute the positive results (legally prescribed substances only) and at the student’s expense, complete a more extensive drug test. Following the initial drug screen students may be subject to random drug screening for reasonable suspicion, at the request of an off campus clinical facility or if the student has been out of the program longer than one year. If a random drug screen is positive without documentation of medical necessity, or a student refuses to complete a random drug screen, the student will not be allowed to continue in the program. If a second drug screen is positive without documented medical necessity or the student refuses to complete a second drug screen, the student will be dismissed from the program without opportunity for reentering. Any student who fails a urine drug screen or refuses to complete a urine drug screen will be referred to counseling for follow-up. Physical Examination All students must complete a physical examination and demonstrate proof of immunizations and/or immunity as a condition for participation in an off-campus learning experience. The physical examination must include the following:

• A complete physical that verifies the student is capable of performing all essential skills of a PTA described on pages 10 of this handbook.

• Evidence of completion of Hepatitis B immunization (series of three vaccines) or a signed waiver. If unable to verify the dates of the 3 vaccines, Hepatitis antibody titer to assess for immune status can be ordered by the provider. This titer should be at least 1-2 months after the Hepatitis vaccine dose #3.

• Rubella Titer

• Mumps Titer

• QuantiFERON-TB Gold blood test (QFT-G) completed within 12 months of the start of the off-

campus learning experience

• Rubeola (Measles) Titer

• Varicella (Chicken Pox) Titer

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• Tetanus (if not updated in last 10 years)

• Flu vaccine

PSC recognizes that some individuals may not have been vaccinated for a variety of reasons. It is the sole discretion of a clinical site to accept a student who does not provide evidence of vaccinations or proof of immunity. The program will not guarantee an alternate placement if a student is rejected from a clinical site. If a student is rejected from a clinical site due to not having the required vaccinations or proof of immunity the student may be required to withdraw from the program.

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Student Success Resources Email/D2L/Grades Students are expected to be able to use a computer and check email and D2L regularly. Students are required to use their Prairie State College email account when communicating with college faculty, staff, and administration. Professors may not respond to an e-mail if they do not recognize the sender. The college provides computers on the main campus and in the Health Tech building for student use. How To Access Your Prairie State College E-Mail Account

• Go to Prairie State’s homepage at prairiestate.edu. • Click on the “GSUITE/EMAIL button” on the right-hand side. • Enter your PSC username and password.

How To Check Your Grades Online

• Go to Prairie State’s homepage at www.prairiestate.edu. • Click on the “WebAdvisor” link on the left-hand side. • Click on “WebAdvisor for Students”. • Scroll to the bottom and click on “Grades”, enter your username and password (your birthday MMDDYY). NOTE: WebAdvisor will require you to change your password during the first login. • Select term and click “submit”.

At the end of every semester, final grades will be posted online within approximately two weeks. Prairie State College does not mail grades. Students are responsible for checking their grades online PSC Writing Center The PSC Writing Center offers half-hour, one-on-one tutoring sessions to help you with writing assignments in any of your classes. Walk-ins are welcome, if a consultant is available, but appointments are encouraged. To make an appointment, go to https://prairiestate.mywconline.com/index.php?logout=YES. For additional assistance, call (708) 709-3521 or stop by Room 2637. PSC Help Desk: The mission of the ITR Help Desk is to provide Prairie State College students with a single point of contact for PSC computer related problems or questions with PSC equipment or software. The ITR Help Desk is also your point of contact for all password or login issues. **The ITR department does not support non-PSC hardware or software** Office Location: Main Campus - Room 1150 | Phone: (708) 709-7999 Email: helpdesk@prairiestate.edu Weblink: prairiestate.edu/helpdesk Disability Services: Prairie State College seeks to maintain academic standards while providing equal access and support services to students who are able to benefit from college-level work, have the commitment to succeed, and have a documented disability. Students with disabilities, who need accommodations, can learn more by contacting Office of Disability Services at (708) 709-3755 or disabilityservices@prairiestate.edu. Counseling and Academic Advising: The Counseling and Academic Advising center is located on the first floor, room 1190. The telephone number is (708) 709-3506 the link is: prairiestate.edu/student-services/advising-and-counseling/

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Student Veteran Center: If you are a veteran or currently serving in our Armed Forces, thank you for your service. Prairie State College has a Student Veterans Center (Room 1240). Information and personnel are available to help navigate benefits you may be eligible for or follow this link: prairiestate.edu/veterans or contact Georges Sanon, Coordinator, Student Veteran Center at (708) 709-3567.

Time Management http://www.studygs.net/timman.htm Study Skills http://www.studygs.net/tsttak1.htm The American Physical Therapy Association http://www.apta.org/ Medscape: Drugs and Diseases https://reference.medscape.com/ Medline Plus http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus

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Physical Therapist Assistant Program Receipt of Student Handbook and Acceptance of Responsibility

The Prairie State College PTA Program Student Handbook was developed to assist students throughout the PTA Program. PTA students are expected to be familiar with the information provided in this handbook and abide by all policies and procedures outlined in this handbook. For clarification of any information provided in this handbook, please consult the PTA Program Coordinator.

I have read and I understand the policies and responsibilities as set forth in this handbook and agree to abide by all policies and procedures outlined in this handbook.

I understand that failure to comply with the established policies may result in disciplinary action, including suspension or dismissal from the PTA Program.

Student Signature _________________________________ Date__________

Print Name __________________________________________________

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Physical Therapist Assistant Program Acknowledgement of Receipt of Academic Standards Related to the PTA Program

I acknowledge that I have been informed of information related to the academic standards of

the program and consequences of not meeting the standards. I understand:

• Minimum course grade requirement for PTA technical courses.

• Policies and procedures related to skill assessment.

Student Signature _________________________________ Date__________

Print Name __________________________________________________

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Physical Therapist Assistant Program PTA Student Informed Consent and Participation Agreement

As a student in the Prairie State College PTA Program, I understand that participation in the lab activities is an important part of the PTA Program and that my participation in all program learning experiences is mandatory except in the case where medical or other extenuating circumstances might excuse such participation. I understand that any exceptions must be approved by the instructor or program coordinator in writing. I understand that it is my responsibility to report any possible medical conditions that may affect participation in lab activities to PTA faculty in a timely manner. I understand that I will be required to role-play as a PTA (therapist) and patient during classroom and laboratory activities. I understand that I will be expected to have physical contact with other students while learning various data collection skills and therapeutic interventions and that I may be required to wear specific clothes during lab activities such as shorts and tank tops.

I agree to follow safe, legal, and ethical practice as directed by PTA faculty during all PTA program related activities.

I understand that performance of an “hands-on” techniques and associated equipment and supplies are only allowed to be performed after instruction by PTA program faculty. I understand that use of that PTA faculty must in the building when practicing any skill. I understand that the use of any physical agent equipment may only occur when PTA faculty are in the room with the student.

I understand that any student misusing an equipment or supplies, applying ant skill on another student without instructor supervision and/or knowledge, or conducting themselves in a knowingly unsafe manner will be dismissed from the PTA program.

I understand that it is my responsibility to report any possible medical conditions that may affect participation in lab activities to PTA faculty in a timely manner. I recognize that medical documentation may be required to

Student Signature _________________________________ Date__________

Print Name __________________________________________________

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Physical Therapist Assistant Program

Student Agreement to Maintain Privacy and Confidentiality

I acknowledge that I have been informed of information and policies& procedures related to the privacy and confidentiality that I am expected to adhere to while enrolled in the PTA program.

I have been informed of the following:

• I must maintain strict confidentiality with respect to other students, all clinical experiences, records, and patient information in accordance with all FERPA and HIPAA regulations while enrolled in the Prairie State College PTA program

• I must receive instructor permission before audio or video lab or virtual learning session. Recordings may not be shared on the internet and/or social media sites.

• I understand that I am expected to comply with all facility privacy/confidentiality policies and procedures during any off-campus learning experience.

• I understand that I may not discuss any content of any PTA technical course skills assessment, quizzes, or exams with another student until the entire cohort has finished the skills assessment, quiz or exam.

I understand that any violation of confidentiality or privacy regarding information of a patient or another student may be considered grounds for dismissal from the program.

Student Signature _________________________________ Date__________

Print Name __________________________________________________

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Physical Therapist Assistant Program Acknowledgement of Receipt of Information Related to Clinical Experiences

I acknowledge that I have been informed of information related to the clinical experiences that

are required to complete the PTA curriculum. I have been made aware of the follow:

• Information required prior to beginning clinical education courses.

• Information related to travel to/from clinical sites.

• All costs related to clinical education courses are the responsibility of the student.

Student Signature _________________________________ Date__________

Print Name __________________________________________________