PTA 114 - Tests and Measurements

1. Demonstrate the ability to perform muscle length testing procedures for selected biarticular muscles, using normal values, definitions and correct names of tests, where defined.
2. Define the grading system used for manual muscle testing.
3. Complete a manual muscle test for major muscle groups including palpation of those muscles, grading the test and recording the results.
4. Interpret recorded muscle testing results.
5. Identify gravity diminished and against gravity positions for cardinal plane motions.
6. Define the terminology associated with goniometry.
7. Perform goniometric measurements of the extremities by selecting the appropriate instrument, interpreting and recording the results.
8. Identify normal ROM values by interpreting the meaning of recorded ROM values, and estimating values for observed ROM.
9. Demonstrate safe, efficient and effective manual skills with testing procedures.

1. Implement plans of care developed by physical therapists.
2. Provide care in a safe, legal and ethical manner.
3. Instruct patients, families and other health care providers using techniques consistent with the level of the audience.
4. Transition to successful employment as PTA.

• Critical Thinking - Critical thinking finds expression in all disciplines and everyday life. It is characterized by an ability to reflect upon thinking patterns, including the role of emotions on thoughts, and to rigorously assess the quality of thought through its work products. Critical thinkers routinely evaluate thinking processes and alter them, as necessary, to facilitate an improvement in their thinking and potentially foster certain dispositions or intellectual traits over time.
• Responsibility - Responsibility encompasses those behaviors and dispositions necessary for students to be effective members of a community. This outcome is designed to help students recognize the value of a commitment to those responsibilities which will enable them to work successfully individually and with others.
• Quantitative and Symbolic Reasoning - Quantitative Reasoning encompasses abilities necessary for a student to become literate in today’s technological world. Quantitative reasoning begins with basic skills and extends to problem solving.