Desired
learning outcomes for students (also referred to as objectives) are linked to
the Program Goals for students/graduates.
Students and
graduates of the program in physical therapy program will:
- Demonstrate the professional core
values and behaviors described in the document Professionalism in Physical Therapy. (Accountability, Altruism,
Compassion/Caring, Excellence, Integrity, Professional Duty, Social
Responsibility)
- Competently complete screening
procedures and a review of systems for patients/clients, and accurately
determine if they are appropriate candidates for physical therapy services
(recognize scope and limits of practice) or if referral to or consultation
with another health care professional or agency is necessary.
- Effectively and efficiently
conduct and accurately document an examination/re-examination of a
patient/client, including: gathering relevant patient history from the
patient and other sources, subjective data and patient goals, and
selecting and performing appropriate objective tests and measures of body
function/structure, activities and participation, while maintaining
patient safety and dignity.
- Systematically evaluate and
interpret data collected through patient examination and make accurate
clinical judgments regarding the patient’s physical therapy diagnosis and
prognosis, and to guide clinical decision-making about an appropriate plan
of care.
- In collaboration with patients,
caregivers and other health care professionals, develop a plan of care for
patients/clients that addresses patient goals, incorporates the skillful
application of interventions that are appropriate and safe based on
patient presentation, supported by evidence, and that are consistent with
legal, regulatory, ethical, and administrative guidelines governing the
practice environment.
- Implement a plan of care for
patients/clients that incorporates methods/tools for monitoring and
assessment of patient response to treatment and attainment of patient and
therapy goals/outcomes, addresses the adequacy of resources to meet goals,
assists the patient in accessing necessary resources, and is accurately
and appropriately documented according to administrative, regulatory, and
payer guidelines.
- Effectively educate
patients/clients and others (caregivers, colleagues, other health care
professionals, students, the public) using culturally sensitive and
appropriate teaching methods that are adapted to individual or group
learning needs, the content being conveyed, and the educational context
for teaching/learning.
- Communicate expressively and
receptively (verbally, non-verbal, in writing) with patients, caregivers,
colleagues, other health care practitioners, and others in ways that are
respectful, culturally and linguistically sensitive and competent, and
that take into consideration the individual differences, values,
preferences and needs of those with whom they are communicating.
- Provide physical therapy services
that are delivered and documented in accordance with regulatory, legal,
agency and reimbursement requirements and that involve consideration and
coordination of resources (human and financial) to achieve quality care in
the current delivery system.
- Access, use and critically
evaluate resources from a variety of sources (published literature,
information technology, web-based materials) to examine the theoretical
and scientific basis for physical therapy practice and integrate
scientific evidence with clinical judgment and patient/client values and
needs to determine the best care for patients.
- Promote health and quality of
life for patients/clients and others (individuals, groups, communities) by
(a) advocating for health policy that will benefit patients and society
and (b) providing services and information related to health promotion,
fitness, wellness, health risks and disease prevention, that are adapted
to the individual or group needs and characteristics and are within the
scope of physical therapy practice.
Reference:
1. American Physical Therapy Association. Professionalism in Physical Therapy: Core
Values. Alexandria, VA: APTA, 2003.