AHPT 818: Neuroscience
Prerequisite: AHPT 800 or permission of the Department
Credit Hours: (2)
Neuroscience is an integrated presentation of neuroscience with an emphasis on the
sensory, motor and higher brain functions of the human nervous system as they relate
to activities of daily living. Students are expected to learn functional anatomy of
the human nervous system. Common neurological problems encountered in physical therapy
are introduced and linked to abnormalities of neural structure and function.
Detailed Description of Course
Content: The course will introduce students to methods/ strategies used in clinical
reasoning, professional conduct, standards of practice, cultural sensitivity, and
legal/ ethical issues dealing with physical therapy. The course will also discuss
the goals and priorities of and the mission of the APTA. The course will introduce
students to the medical system, the professional environment of physical therapy and
the patient/ therapist relationship and its importance in patient outcomes. The need
for cultural sensitivity and strategies dealing with cultural diversity in clinical
practice will be introduced. The course will discuss elements of malpractice and ethical
decision in the provision of physical therapy.
Detailed Description of Conduct of Course
Instructional methods used may include lecture, interactive small group discussions,
written papers, group presentations and group projects and case study analysis.
Goals and Objectives of this Course
Will require students to:
1) Demonstrate an understanding of the APTA and its goals and priorities;
2) Demonstrate an understanding and application of the "Standards of Practice" and professional practice expectations;
3) Demonstrate the ability to identify various types of healthcare systems and managed care organizations from an operational basis;
4) Demonstrate elements of culturally sensitive care;
5) Evaluate and identify primary, secondary, and tertiary functions of healthcare institutions;
6) Demonstrate the application of the basic concepts of the "Guide to Physical Therapist Practice";
7) Use the "Guide to Physical Therapist Practice" to develop a patient intervention care plan;
8) Demonstrate an understanding of clinical malpractice;
9) Provided a case scenario, develop and implement an ethical and culturally sensitive intervention plan;
10) Demonstrate the ability to critically analyze healthcare concerns of various cultures and incorporate those concerns in the patient management plan;
11) Demonstrate initiative in the formation of group, delineation of labor, research and time management in the development of a group project;
12) Write in a professional manner;
13) Demonstrate the ability to develop and implement a cost effective patient intervention plan;
14) Recognize three sources of personal bias that influence patient treatment;
15) Compare and interpret laws, standards and policies that affect the practice of physical therapy;
16) Demonstrate the ability to discuss and accept various types of patient values and cultural beliefs;
17) identify and utilize the major components of informed consent;
18) Recognize and respond to ageism;
19) Recognize elements of cost effective practice;
20) Differentiate between the roles and responsibilities of the PT, PTA and rehab aid;
21) Recognize the importance of assessment in the use of healthcare extenders for best practice (e.g., PTAs);
22) Assess the value of participating in professional organizations (e.g., APTA).
Assessment Measures
Grades may be based on but not limited to written assignments.
Other Course Information
None
Review and Approval
May 9, 2017
February 10, 2014