PTA 106 - Neuroscience

1. Describe and identify the basic structure and function of the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nervous system.
2. Describe the components and paths of the primary somatosensory pathways.
3. Describe the components and path of the motor pathways.
4. Identify the three sensory mechanisms used in maintaining balance.
5. Describe the signs and symptoms of diseases and disorders affecting the nervous system.
6. Explain how nervous system dysfunctions affect functional ability.
7. Complete sensory testing for primary and cortical sensations.
8. Describe testing for selected cranial nerve functions and relate to the associated cranial nerve.  
9. Describe the signs, symptoms, and likely causes of movement disorders seen with upper and lower motor neuron dysfunction. 
10. Identify and map the dermatomal and peripheral nerve distributions for the extremities.
11.  Identify and describe myotomal/key muscle testing for the extremities.
12. Describe reflex testing and normal responses.
13. Describe testing and the responses/results for cranial nerve functions.
14. Describe the signs, symptoms, and likely causes of movement disorders seen with upper and lower motor neuron dysfunction including but not limited to:  Parkinson’s, cerebellar lesions, CVAs, spinal cord injury, radiculopathy.
15. Administer and score standardized functional outcome measures for balance.
16. Describe the movement disorders seen with pathology of the basal ganglia and of the cerebellum.
17. Define and describe communication disorders and strategies to promote effective patient care.
18. Describe the components of the autonomic nervous system and disorders that affect the ANS.
19. Recognize signs and symptoms of vestibular disorders.
20. Accurately assess with special testing for vestibular disorders.
21. Accurately and effectively complete and score tests for coordination and balance disorders.
22. Identify the four components used to assess orientation.
23. Describe how mental function is assessed.
24. Administer and score the Mini Mental Status Examination.

1. Implement plans of care developed by the PT.
2. Provide care in a safe, legal and ethical manner.
3. Communicate effectively and appropriately with patients, families, PTs, and other care providers both verbally and non verbally including accurate written communication and documentation.
4. Instruct patients,families and other care providers using techniques consistent with the level of the audience.
5. Function as an integral team member and participate in the team process.
6. Transition to successful employment as PTAs.

• 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.