Physical Agents Syllabus for 2024-2025
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Instructor Information

Office Location

<p>6222 W. 9th Rm. 118</p> <p>PO Box 447</p> <p>Amarillo, TX 79178</p>

Office Hours

Monday 9-11, Tuesday 9-11

Thursday 1-3

And other times by appointment.

Course Information

AI Statement

Collusion is defined as “the unauthorized collaboration with another person or by any other means, including artificial intelligence (AI) and computer translators, in preparing work for fulfillment of course requirements.” Using AI like (ChatGPT or Google Gemini) to create a document is considered colluding. <strong>The use of Generative Artificial Intelligence on specific assignments is at the discretion of the instructor. </strong>

COVID-19 Protocols

Recording Policy

Disability Statement

If you have a disability (learning, mental, physical) that affects your ability to participate effectively and have access to any program or service at Amarillo College please contact Disability Services at (806) 345-5639 . Our offices are located in the Enrollment Center, Suite 700. More information may be found at www.actx.edu/disability.
Disability Services facilitates access to all programs and services according to the ADA, Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, as well as other federal and state laws.

Amarillo College Web Accessibility Policy Statement

Amarillo College is committed to providing equal access to all programs and services, including all working, learning, and service environments that affect equal access for persons with disabilities. This commitment to provide equal access and opportunity for persons with disabilities is in compliance with federal and state law. Amarillo College also strives to provide Electronic and Information Resources (EIR) that are accessible to all authorized users.

If you find you are unable to access material in an accessible format please contact the Disability Services Office at (806) 345-5639 . This office will work in conjunction with other campus resources to address and accommodate your issue in a timely manner.

Statement for Mental Health and Advocacy & Resource Center:

As a student you may experience a range of issues that can cause barriers to learning, such as strained relationships, increased anxiety, alcohol/drug problems, feeling down, difficulty concentrating and/or lack of motivation. These mental health concerns or stressful events may lead to diminished academic performance or reduce a student's ability to participate in daily activities. Amarillo College offers services to assist you with addressing these and other concerns you may be experiencing. If you or someone you know are suffering from any of the aforementioned conditions, you can learn more about the broad range of confidential mental health services available on campus by calling the AC Counseling Center at 806-371-5900. The AC Counseling Center website is https://www.actx.edu/counseling/ . Also, if you are in need of social services (affordable housing, utilities, transportation, food, clothing, childcare, medical/dental/vision, legal), please call the AC Advocacy & Resource Center at 806-371-5439. The AC Advocacy & Resource Center website is https://www.actx.edu/arc

Amarillo College Tutoring for Success Policy:

Tutoring for Success applies to any student whose overall performance in the course falls below 75%. The instructor will create the task in the Student Engagement Portal (Watermark) to direct the student to the appropriate tutoring service, which may be faculty- or SI-led, discipline-specific, and/or general. The tutoring service assigned, the due date for when the tutoring must be completed, and the amount of tutoring required are at the discretion of the instructor. Additionally, the task will alert the student’s success team. Students who do not fulfill the assigned tutoring task may be subject to program- and course-specific penalties that could result in a grade reduction and/or in not being allowed to progress in the course until the tutoring requirement has been satisfied.

Administrative Drop Policy

Students who do not attend class on or prior to the census date will be administratively dropped. Effective Fall, 2016

Student Withdrawal Procedures

Students who wish to withdraw from a course must complete all steps indicated on the Academic Withdrawal Request form by the course withdrawal deadline.

NOTE: Students who are attending Texas institutions of higher education, for the first time fall 2007 and later, may not withdraw from more than six courses during their academic career. This withdrawal limitation does not include dual credit or developmental classes (Senate Bill 1231 Rule 4.10.) For more information on Drop and Withdrawal Policies, please visit the Registrar's Office Web site.

Privacy Statement

The Amarillo College Privacy Policy is found at https://www.actx.edu/-amarillo-college-privacy-notice , and applies to all Amarillo College students.  If you have questions about this privacy statement or you believe that your personal information has been released without your consent, send email to humanresources@actx.edu .

Course

PTHA-1431-001 Physical Agents

Prerequisites

Course Description

Biophysical principles, physiological effects, efficacy and application of physical agents.

Student ResourcesStudent Resources Website

Department Expectations

Occupational License Disclaimer

Notice to Students enrolled in an educational program for preparation of issuance of certain occupational licenses:

Students enrolled in an educational program in preparation for obtaining certain occupational licenses are potentially ineligible for such license if the student has been convicted of an offense. For further information, please contact:

Melodie Graves
Justice Involved Advocate
Student Service Center 117
mgraves24@actx.edu
806-371-5995
Make appointment at https://melodiegraves.youcanbook.me

You can also contact the Legal Clinic, or the faculty member in charge of the educational program that you seek to enroll in. The further information you will receive will include notification to you of your right to request a criminal history evaluation letter from the licensing authority in order to clarify your particular situation.

Hours

(4 sem hrs; 3 lec, 3 lab)

Class Type

On Campus Course

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

REQUIRED TEXTS: 

Cameron M. Physical Agents in Rehabilitation: An Evidence-Based Approach to Practice 6th Ed., 2023.  ISBN: 9780323761949

ADDITIONAL TEXTS FROM PREVIOUS COURSES: (These will be integrated into the course.)

Mansfield and Neumman. Essentials of Kinesiology for the Physical Therapist Assistant, 3rd ed. Elsevier, 2019.

Reichert B. Palpation Techniques: Surface Anatomy for Physical Therapists, 2nd ed. Thieme, 2015.

Access to the AC Library Ebooks as detailed in Reading Assignments

Supplies

Laptop Computer

Student Performance

COURSE DESCRIPTION:  Concepts, principles, and application of techniques related to therapeutic exercise and functional training.

STATEMENT OF PURPOSE:  This course is designed to give the student the knowledge needed to treat patients with acute and chronic disabilities by the use of therapeutic exercise interventions. It also provides the student the opportunity to integrate their knowledge of treatment approaches from previous courses with new information. Successful completion of the Amarillo College PTA Program and achievement of a passing score on the National Physical Therapy Examination allows the graduate eligibility for licensure as a physical therapist assistant in all 50 states of the United States.

General Considerations for Physical Agents

  1. Demonstrate appropriate teaching strategies for patient-centered instruction regarding disease/condition, treatment interventions, and HEP in a role-play situation.

  2. Demonstrate the ability to implement and modify a treatment session based on patient status within bio-psychosocial and ICF (International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health) models as described in the physical therapist’s plan of care by communicating the rationale for the modifications to the physical therapist.

  3. Apply current knowledge, theory, and clinical judgment while considering appropriate physical agents for a patient as described on the plan of care established by the physical therapist.

  4. Integrate appropriate evidence based resources to support clinical decision making for modality choices for the patient within the physical therapist’s plan of care.

  5. Identify normal and abnormal integumentary changes associated with physical agents.

  6. Demonstrate the ability to competently assess a patient for absent or altered sensation before applying physical agent modalities.

  7. Demonstrate proper draping techniques to enhance patient privacy while utilizing physical agent modalities.

  8. Recognize activities that aggravate or relieve edema, pain, dyspnea, or other symptoms (ventilation, respiration, and circulation examination).

  9. Recognize when an intervention should not be provided due to changes in the patient’s status, and communicate these changes to the physical therapist.

  10. Recognizes when performance of an intervention is beyond the scope of practice or skill of a physical therapist assistant.

  11. Identify the indications, contraindications, and precautions of using the following physical therapy interventions:

    1. Direct contact, immersion and ultrasound

    2. Hydrotherapy (whirlpool, aquatic pool)

    3. Compression therapies (Intermittent Compression, Game Ready)

    4. Hot packs

    5. Cold packs and ice massage

    6. Paraffin

    7. Phonophoresis and Iontophoresis

    8. Contrast baths/pack

    9. Lumbar traction

    10. Cervical traction

    11. Laser/Ultraviolet/Infrared

    12. Diathermy

    13. Fluidotherapy

  12. Demonstrate the ability to competently perform the following physical therapy interventions:

    1. Direct contact, immersion and ultrasound

    2. Compression therapies (Intermittent Compression)

    3. Hot packs

    4. Cold packs and ice massage

    5. Paraffin

    6. Phonophoresis and Iontophoresis

    7. Lumbar traction

    8. Cervical traction

  13. Identify the indications, contraindications, and precautions for performing the following electrotherapy interventions:

    1. TENS

    2. Interferential Current

    3. Biofeedback

    4. NMES

    5. Iontophoresis

    6. High Volt

  14. Demonstrate the ability to competently perform the following electrotherapy interventions:

    1. TENS

    2. Interferential Current

    3. NMES

    4. High Volt

  15. Compare the mechanisms of heat transfer and how they apply to the application of physical agents.

  16. Identify the laws of physics related to the use of physical agents.

  17. Identify the physical principles of water related to aquatic therapy.

  18. Design a treatment session from within the physical therapist’s plan of care for a patient treated in a therapeutic pool.

  19. Recognize common treatment goals for the application of biophysical agents.

  20. Describe the rationale for the selection of physical agents based on clinical goals and patient responses.

  21. Identify the appropriate parameters required to accomplish specific treatment goals with utilizing physical agents.

  22. Describe potential adverse responses to the application of a physical agent.

  23. Accurately compose a SOAP note summarizing a treatment session utilizing a physical agent.

  24. Describe the properties of electricity, (including conductance, resistance, and capacitance), related to the application for electrotherapy.

  25. Compare the physiological effects of different physical agents.

  26. Identify the indications, contraindications, and precautions for performing therapeutic massage and soft tissue mobilization techniques.

  27. Compare the physiological effects of different massage techniques and soft tissue mobilization techniques.

  28. Demonstrate the ability to competently perform therapeutic massage.

  29. Identify the mechanisms of pain reception and transmission according to various theories.

  30. Discuss pain management with physical agents, exercise, and pharmacological approaches.

  31. Identify tissues and patterns which are typical causes of motion restrictions.

  32. Recognize activities, positioning, and postures that aggravate, relieve pain or alter sensations.

  33. Explain the healing stages in musculoskeletal and neurological disorders.

Students Rights and Responsibilities

Student Rights and Responsibilities

Log in using the AC Connect Portal

In order to receive your AC Connect Email, you must log in through AC Connect at https://acconnect.actx.edu .

If you are an active staff or faculty member according to Human Resources, use "Exchange". All other students, use "AC Connect (Google) Email".

Expected Student Behavior

Students shall read the Amarillo College "Student Rights and Responsibilities" information with emphasis placed on the Academic Information, Student Conduct and Responsibilities, Alcohol and Drug Abuse Education/Prevention Program sections.

Students will not use cell phones in the classroom unless the instructor allows use for a specific activity. All such devices must be placed on silent mode and kept stored. If a student expects an emergency, they should inform the instructor before class begins. Unauthorized use of cell phones in class will result in the student being asked to leave the class and being counted absent for the lecture/lab.

Courtesy and respect are expected between the student and instructor. Students are expected to be attentive to instructor, guests, and other students during presentations. Students are required to extend the highest respect to patients/clients/others when making off-campus contact. Lack of regard to this expectation at any time by any single student or group of students may result in immediate dismissal of the student/s from the situation by the instructor, guest lecturer, or patient/client/other.

Dishonesty in the classroom or in completing any assignment will not be tolerated. Students demonstrating academic dishonesty as defined in the "Student Rights and Responsibilities" publication will receive a grade of "F" in the course and will be subject to all PTA Program policies regarding course failure.

A Physical Therapist Assistant student’s conduct shall be respectful, attentive, responsible, and professional. Without the cooperation of the local institutions, this program would not be possible. Misconduct by one student reflects on the entire program and jeopardizes other students’ use of such services. Students may be required to obtain drug testing for cause as a condition for attendance at clinical settings. The clinical instructor or supervisor has the authority to dismiss a student exhibiting improper or questionable behavior. Once a student has been dismissed from a clinical, the student may request a formal review by the program director. An ad hoc committee consisting of the program faculty, dean’s representative, and other program director may be convened to determine a plan of action and responsibility. Examples of factors included in professional conduct are the following:

  • Showing respect for the patient’s needs, desires, and person

  • Preserving the confidentiality of patient records and information (this is a federal legal requirement and could result in litigation and punitive consequences if not met)

  • Showing respect for clinical supervisors and hospital/facility personnel

  • Performing duties described by the clinical instructors

  • Arriving for clinical experiences on time and leaving at the institution’s typical shift change

  • Following the facility’s policies and guidelines

  • Abstaining from the posting of inappropriate statements on social media

Appropriate student conduct is imperative for classroom success as well. Students will be held responsible for their actions. If at any time a student behaves in manner which is inappropriate, unprofessional, disrespectful, argumentative, or endangers the health or safety of fellow students, instructors, patients, or the health care team, they will be referred to the Vice President of Enrollment Management and/or Amarillo College Campus Police.

The following examples of unprofessional conduct will result in disciplinary measures and may result in removal from clinic sites, probation, or withdrawal from the PTA program.

  • Verbal or nonverbal language, actions or voice inflections, or insubordination which compromises a rapport or working relations with peers, faculty, patients and their family or healthcare team members.

  • Any behavior that may compromise contractual agreements and/or working relations with clinical affiliates or constitute violations of legal or ethical standards.

  • Using or being under the influence of any drug (OTC, prescription, illegal) that may alter judgment and/or interfere with safe performance.”

  • Dishonesty in either the academic or clinical settings

PROFESSIONALISM

Students must always demonstrate the professional demeanor expected of any health care provider. Students must follow the rules outlined in the PTA Program’s Code of Conduct presented to them at the beginning of each semester.

While in this educational program, the student must collaborate and cooperate with others in the classroom. At times, classroom, laboratory, and clinical experiences will be performed as a class. Designated assignments are to be done individually. Failure to complete these assignments independently may result in a failing grade for the assignment.

Students are prohibited from social media contact with AC faculty and/or clinical staff. All communication with AC faculty will be through email or the class GroupMe account. Communication concerning regular classes between students and faculty should be through email, not text messages.

It is the student’s immediate responsibility to work cooperatively with peers and faculty. Active participation in the educational environment is essential to success in this program. All matters of non-participation, hindrances to the learning environment, and non-cooperation will be addressed by the faculty through a disciplinary process.

The faculty who teach on-campus courses and those who will supervise students in the off-campus clinical setting will be closely observing each student’s communication skills, psychomotor skills, and his/her ability to demonstrate professionalism. Unprofessional or disruptive behavior may result in dismissal from the program based on recommendations of an ad hoc committee.

STUDENT COMPETENCE

Prior to clinical assignments, the program will provide time for demonstration of clinical skills. Students will be allowed to practice the skills in lab and “open lab” sessions under the supervision of the course instructor. Students will then be expected to demonstrate a representative sampling of clinical skills in “skill check-off” sessions until a self-check, peer check, and instructor check indicate successful mastery. In the event a student fails to pass a practical exam, the student will be given the opportunity to retake the practical exam one time; however, the maximum earned grade will be 75.0%.

To further assure student competence prior to clinical assignment, students who fail a course and wish to be re-admitted to the program will be required to demonstrate continued proficiency in all previously approved skills.

Likewise, students must inform all patients of their status as a student before intervention. Clinical instructors are informed of this requirement and are expected to ensure that students represent themselves as students.

Grading timelines for lecture exams will be within 48 hours from the exam time. Due to the processes involved in grading practical exams, practical exams will be graded within 7 calendar days of the testing time

DRESS CODE

Students in the PTA Program are expected to dress conservatively and professionally, as expected in the clinic. Students will attend class in clothing that is clean and neat. At times, the student may be required to wear business professional dress including black, navy, or khaki pants and polo-type shirts. T-shirts, jeans, shorts, or athletic clothing are not allowed on field trips. Amarillo College Badge/ID's should also be worn during all off-campus class and clinical activities. Students are required to adopt the following rules during lecture, lab, skill checks, practical exams, practicums, and field trips:

  • Neat clean, appropriate clothing that would be acceptable in a work environment.
  • Closed-toe, closed-heel shoes with non-slip soles in good, clean condition.
  • Hair that is clean, secured back off of the face, and styled in a manner that is professional in appearance. Hair color must be a naturally occurring color.
  • All jewelry and cologne should be conservative and limited to a minimal amount.
  • No hats/caps.
  • Fingernails should be short and clean.
  • Facial hair must be kept neatly trimmed to the standards required by the clinical setting.
  • Students will always maintain good hygiene, with daily bathing/showering, oral hygiene, and use of antiperspirant required. No offensive body odor.
  • No excessive make-up.

The above is applicable to lab activities. Additionally, the following rules for lab attire must be followed:

  • Clothing must be clean and in good condition, with no rips, holes, or stains.
  • Closed-toe, closed-heel shoes with non-slip soles in good, clean condition.
  • Athletic wear including shorts, tank tops, and sports bras. Compression shorts are required under shorts for modesty. Tights/leggings, jeans, crop tops, and tight clothing items are not appropriate during labs.
  • Students must come prepared to each lab session to reveal the entire treatment area.
  • Sweatshirts/sweatpants can be worn as needed for warmth during lab activities but must be removed when necessary for lab activities.
  • Each student is required to utilize appropriate draping techniques as needed during all lab activities to protect other students’ modesty, in order to demonstrate appropriate professional behavior and responsibility.

The student's professional dress is subject to approval by the course instructor. If professional dress code is not followed, the student may be excluded from participation in the scheduled activity or lab, may receive an attendance penalty for the day, and may/may not have the option to makeup the assignment. This decision is at the instructor's discretion.

Regulations for exams include the following:

  • Sleeves must be above elbows.
  • Jackets must be fully zipped.
  • All watches must be removed.
  • No hats/caps.
  • Cell phones will be used for Duo verification and then will be turned off and stored in backpacks or at the instructor’s desk.
  • No paper will be brought into the testing area. Scratch paper will be provided by the instructor.
  • Seating will be assigned by the instructor.

PARTICIPATION

All students enrolled in the physical therapist assistant program are expected to participate in laboratory and classroom activities. Students may be asked to simulate patients or therapists during these activities. All students have the right to be informed of the activities required by a specific course and any limitations that would preclude them from participation. All students have the responsibility to inform the course instructor of any limitation(s) that may limit their ability to participate in an event. Students may be videotaped, audio taped, photographed, or otherwise recorded or imaged for instructional purposes.

It is the student’s immediate responsibility to work cooperatively with peers and faculty. Active participation in the educational environment is essential to success in this program. All matters of non-participation, hindrances to the learning environment, and non-cooperation will be addressed by the faculty through a disciplinary process.

Courtesy and respect are expected between the student and instructor. Students are expected to be attentive to instructor, guests, and other students during presentations. Students are required to extend highest respect to patients/clients/others when making off-campus contact. Lack of regard to this expectation at any time by any single student or group of students may result in immediate dismissal of the student/s from the situation by the instructor, guest lecturer, or patient/client/other. . Designated assignments are to be done individually. Failure to complete these assignments independently may result in a failing grade for the assignment.

ACADEMIC HONESTY

Students who demonstrate academic dishonesty as described in the Student Rights and Responsibilities handout will receive a grade of “F” in the course and will be subject to all policies for course failure. If there is evidence of any type of cheating on an exam, the student will receive an “F” in the course. Any assignment that is indicated to be submitted individually must be completed on an individual basis, or the student will receive a grade of “0” on the assignment. If any written assignment submitted through plagiarism software receives a score above 30%, it will be subject to further review and may receive a penalty or “0” for the assignment, at the discretion of the instructor.

TECHNOLOGICAL USE

Students will be required to bring a Wi-Fi compatible laptop for all PTHA coursework for testing and academic purposes. Students shall come prepared for lab and lecture with the laptop. In addition, computers are available for student use at the West Campus in the Building D computer lab. Use of cell phones during instructional time except with instructor approval is prohibited. The unauthorized use of cell phones during class time and clinical time is disruptive, unprofessional, and hinders the educational process. The contact for emergency contact during class time is the Executive Secretary for Health Professions at (806) 354-6055. Unauthorized use of cell phones in class will result in the student being asked to leave the class and being counted absent for the lecture/lab. If the student anticipates an emergency during practicum time, he/she can leave a message with faculty so that the student can be taken out of the clinical rotation by the PTA faculty. Student recording of lecture and/or lab time is prohibited without specified accommodations from the Disability Services department.

No Bluetooth-enabled devices (including head phones and earbuds) will be allowed during instructional (lecture and lab) time. Foam earplugs or noise-canceling headphones without electronic capability may be used during exams as needed. The use of all AI must follow the AC policy guidelines and is prohibited in the completion of individual writing assignments.

GRIEVANCE POLICY

A student who has a problem with the course or the course instructor should make every attempt to resolve the problem with the course instructor. If that is not successful, the student may appeal the decision of the instructor to the PTA Program Director, Dean of Health Professions/Division Committee, Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs, Vice President of Academic Affairs, and the President – IN THAT ORDER.

Grading Criteria

Participation/Assignments, and In-Class Quizzes*                             10%

Research Presentation                                                                          5%

Lecture Exams**                                                                                    40%

Final Exam***                                                                                         20%

Practicals****                                                                                          25%

*Assignments and quizzes will be completed prior to or within the classroom or lab meeting. If the submission is not acceptable for a check mark, the submission will be returned to the student until an acceptable submission meets the approval of the instructor. The student will have 1 week from the time that the original submission is returned to submit an acceptable submission. After 1 week, a 5-point deduction is applied to the assignment grade.

**The lecture exam grades will be averaged from lecture exam portion (40%) of the final grade. The lowest lecture exam grade MAY OR MAY NOT be dropped for the calculation of the lecture exam portion of the final grade. This is solely at the discretion of the instructor.

***The final exam is comprehensive for the semester and is not eligible to be dropped even if it is the lowest grade performance.

****The student must successfully pass all practicals.
Students who do not meet minimum proficiency and achieve a grade of 75 during the lab practicals will be given one opportunity to re-test as soon as possible based on the instructor's schedule. The highest grade which can be granted for a re-test is 75 and the student must obtain at least a score of 75. Please note that failure of the second attempt for a practical results in failure of the class and dismissal from the program.

· The class average must be at least 75.0% for the student to successfully pass the course. The student must successfully complete all assignments and meet course objectives in order to pass the course.

· Students who do not meet the minimum proficiencies during a lab practical, scoring below 75.0%, will be given one opportunity to re-test before the course is completed. If the practical is repeated to achieve competency, the highest grade that can be achieved is 75.0%. Students are required to demonstrate proficiency in ALL critical safety elements before being allowed to pass the course. If a student is absent on the day of a practical exam, the highest grade that can be achieved is 75.0% except in extenuating circumstances as determined by the instructor.

· Assignments may be in the form of a quiz or submission and may be graded on a check-mark system for satisfactory completion. If unsatisfactory work is submitted, the assignment is returned to the student for correction and edits. FAILURE TO COMPLETE ANY SINGLE ASSIGNMENT TO A SATISFACTORY PERFORMANCE WILL RESULT IN A ZERO FOR PARTICIPATION/ASSIGNMENTS/QUIZZES GRADE TO BE CALCULATED INTO THE FINAL GRADE AS WEIGHTED BY THE INSTRUCTOR. STUDENTS WILL BE REQUIRED TO ATTEND ALL SCHEDULED CLASSES ON THE DAY OF AN EXAM OR THEY WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO TAKE THE EXAM. A 10-POINT PENALTY WILL BE ASSESSED FOR A MAKE-UP EXAM DUE TO AN UNEXCUSED ABSENCE.

Any student scoring a 79 or lower on an exam or practical is REQUIRED to contact the instructor to discuss remediation. IT IS THE STUDENT’S RESPONSIBILITY TO SCHEDULE THIS SESSION. The student will be required to schedule and attend tutoring at one of AC’s tutoring centers. Locations for tutoring can be found at https://www.actx.edu/tutoring/. The required number of tutoring sessions will be determined at the discretion of the instructor. The student will be required to bring verification of attendance at tutoring to the instructor.

GRADING SCALE:

A = 100 to 92.0

B = Less than 92 to 84

C = Less than 84 to 75

F = Less than 75

Note: A grade of C or better is required to complete the PTA major.

Late work will not be accepted without written permission specifying a new due date from the course instructor following a written request by the student. The course instructor may not grant an extension of the due date. There will be no rescheduling of quizzes. Missed lecture or practical exams may be rescheduled under all the following conditions: the student must request a makeup exam in writing; the student must provide verification of the reason the exam was missed; and written permission is received from the instructor. The granting of permission or the imposition of any point penalty is at the discretion of the instructor. A 10-point penalty will be added if the exam is missed due to an unexcused absence. Students are expected to be in attendance for ALL scheduled classes on the day of an exam. Makeup exams will be scheduled based on the availability of the instructor. If permission for a makeup exam is not granted, the student will receive a grade of “0”.The student should expect to take the make-up exam on the day the student returns to class, unless otherwise notified by the instructor.

Exam grades or practical grades may be dropped at the discretion of the instructor. In the event a student fails to pass a practical exam, the student will be given the opportunity to retake the practical exam one time; however, the maximum earned grade will be 75.0%. Failure of a practical exam retake will result in an “F” in the course.

LAST DATE TO DROP/WITHDRAW: April 17, 2025. Any student not withdrawn by April 17, 2025 will receive the grade earned

Attendance

Regular attendance is necessary for satisfactory achievement. Therefore, it is the responsibility of the student to attend class in accordance with the requirements of the course as established by the instructor. (Amarillo College Student's Rights and Responsibilities Publication). Absences and tardiness will be monitored and evaluated in the Student Engagement Portal to determine a student's final course grade.

The instructor will take roll for each class and note absences for each student. Students who are not present at the beginning of class are counted absent. A student will receive TWO bonus points to the final grade for perfect attendance for all lecture and lab classes with a prior passing minimum average of 75%.

Students are expected to be present for the entire class/lab time. Students must report any anticipated class/lab absence to the instructor.

Habitual late arrivals after the scheduled start time of class, extended breaks during class, or early departures are disruptive to the class. The student must directly report the reason for any tardiness to the instructor. For each unexcused absence or for every 3 instances of missing class time, the student will be required to complete an additional assignment that will be included in the grade calculation.

If a student is asked to leave a class due to disruption or lack of participation, the student will be counted absent for that entire class and will have an additional assignment.

An excused absence is granted at the discretion of the instructor. Verification documentation may be required. A period of extended absences may be considered for approval upon submission of a written request by the student. This will be determined by an ad hoc committee of the 3 faculty members.

Following an absence, the student is responsible for obtaining missed notes, assignments, copies of handouts, etc. from classmates. The student is also responsible for obtaining any needed clarification of missed information from the course instructor.

If there is a period where remote access to classes is required because of public health situations, the attendance policies will be revised.

Calendar

Physical Agents (96 Contact hours)

Lecture Tuesday 12:30-3:30 pm Allied Health Rm 130

Lab- Thursday 8:00-11:00 Rm 165

Spring 2024-Tentative schedule-Lead instructor reserves the right to make changes as necessary.    

Week LectureLabAdditional Information (Bring a computer and earphones to lab and lecture.)
Week 1 

Syllabus Review

Chapters 1, 2, & 3 from Cameron

Lab orientation

Positioning and draping

Massage and Soft Tissue 

Class handouts will be given to supplement the text information on soft tissue mobilization and massage techniques.

Bring Reichert book to Lab.

Week 2 Chapters 4, 5, 6 from CameronMassage and Soft TissueBring Reichert book to Lab.
Week 3 

Chapter 7 & 8 in Cameron

Application of Hot Packs, Ice packs, Ice Massage, Contrast baths, and ParaffinBring Cameron book to Lab.
Week 4 Chapter 18 and 20 in CameronApplication of Compression and HydrotherapyBring Cameron book to lab.
Week 5 

Exam 1 (90 minutes)

Lecture begins at 2:15 PM

Chapter 9 in Cameron

Application of Ultrasound and Skills Check for practicalBring Cameron book to lab.
Week 6 Chapter 9 and 10 in CameronLab practical 1Bring Cameron book to lab.
Week 7

Chapter 11 and 12 in Cameron

Application of Electrical Stimulation

Bring Cameron book to lab.
Week 8 Chapters 13 and 14 in CameronApplication of Electrical StimulationBring Cameron book to lab
BREAK SPRING BREAK 
Week 9 

Exam 2 (90 minutes)

Lecture begins at 2:15

Chapter 15 in Cameron 

Application of Electrical StimulationBring Cameron book to Lab.
Week 10Chapters 16 and 17  in CameronLab Practical #2Bring Cameron book to Lab.
Week 11

Chapter 19 in Cameron

Application of Laser and Light Therapy (IR, UV), Application of Traction Bring Cameron book to Lab.
Week 12 Billing and DocumentationApplication of Laser and Light Therapy (IR, UV), Application of Traction; Skill ChecksBring Cameron book to Lab.
Week 13Research Presentations

Practical Practice

 
Week 14

Exam 3 (90 minutes)

Practical Practice and Skills Checks

Lab Practical #3 
Week 15ReviewReview 
Week 16FINALS WEEK

PTHA Physical Agents Final 

 

 

WC-D 104

 
 

Additional Information

LAB DRESS CODE: MANDATORY during each lab for participation.  The student will be asked to leave lab if he/she is not wearing appropriate attire. If the absence exceeds 20 minutes, the student will be counted absent for that class.

Females: shorts, halter/swimsuit top/sports bra (fasteners need to be in the back), sweats/athletic wear can be used for a cover up (no jeans).  Long hair must be up off the shoulders.

Males: shorts, T-shirts, sweats/athletic wear can be used for a cover-up (no jeans).

Jeans, leggings, yoga pants or tights of any kind are NOT proper attire.

LAST DATE TO DROP/WITHDRAW: April 17, 2025 – Any student not withdrawn by this date will receive the grade earned.

SAFETY PROCEDURES: In case of an emergency, the student needs to call the Safety and Security department at 9-371-5163.  In an emergency situation, use the nearest phone that is available.  The student should also know in case of a medical emergency, the following procedure should be performed and in the order written:

Call 9-911 for an ambulance

Call Amarillo College Police at (806) 371-5163.

PHYSICAL RESTRICTIONS: The activities presented in this course may have physical restrictions.  It is the responsibility of the student to let the instructor know if any of these restrictions apply to you.  All students are to avoid doing the Valsalva maneuver during exercises and to exercise within your tolerance and speed.

If you have:

Asthma, cardiac problems, high blood pressure– avoid doing the Valsalva maneuver during exercises and monitor your pulse and blood pressure on a regular basis during exercises in lab.  Exercise within your tolerance and speed.

Pregnancy– do not do any exercise that emphasizes abdominal strengthening.  Precaution needs to be taken when stretching due to ligament laxity.  All exercise is contraindicated if you have incompetent cervix, vaginal bleeding, placenta previa, rupture of the membrane, premature labor, maternal heart disease, hypertension, intrauterine growth retardation, and uncontrolled diabetes

Rheumatoid Arthritis– when in the inflammatory state, certain exercises are contraindicated.  It is recommended to rest and use splints to protect your joints during the appropriate activities as prescribed by your doctor

Thermoregulatory problems – clothing may need to be adjusted to accommodate the temperature of the environment.  If necessary, a misting bottle may be brought to lab

Thrombophlebitis– exercise is contraindicated.  Medical care is mandatory and a release to resume any activities is required.

Diabetes/hypoglycemia– bring medication and snacks as needed

Latex sensitivity– latex gloves during sterile techniques are to be avoided.  Notify the instructor by the 3rd day of classes so that alternative gloves can be provided

Amarillo College Resource Link: http://www.actx.edu/resources

THE LEAD INSTRUCTOR RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY THE SYLLABUS AS NEEDED DURING THE SEMESTER.  ANY MODIFICATIONS WILL BE ANNOUNCED IN CLASS.

Syllabus Created on:

01/10/25 6:31 PM

Last Edited on:

01/12/25 4:10 PM