PTA TRANSITIONS SEMINAR-2015MS. SHERMAN

PTA 190

Agenda

PTBC ApplicationResumesInternet SitesSyllabusNPTAE/CLETest Taking SkillsProfessionalism

Review Syllabus

Course Description and Relevance

Course Objectives and Outcomes

PTA Exam: The Complete Study GuideChapter 1 – 3

Internet sites: http://www.ptbc.ca.govhttp://www.fsbpt.orghttp://www.apta.org

NPTAE

Created under the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT)

200 Questions 150 scored, 50 pre-test (not officially scored) 4 sections of 50 questions each (Closed after each section) 4 hours to complete

Scoring 4 possible answers numbered 1,2,3,4-None of the above,

All of the above or combinations of two or more are NOT included

NPTAE

Application through PTBC

Jurisprudence Exam required in CA

Prometric Testing Centers Make appointment to sit for test immediately after

notified from FSBPT FSBPT sends scores to PTBC

Applying for the Exam

Request registration materials from the licensing authority of the jurisdiction where you intend to practice

Register for exam at www.fsbpt.org

Return all registration materials and payment to licensing authority

Once completed, FSBPT will issue an “authorization to test” letter with instructions for scheduling exam

Have 60 days to sit for exam once letter is received

California Law Exam

One-hour multiple-choice examination that covers laws and regulations related to the practice of physical therapy in California

Register through the FSBPT-recommended to take after the NPTAE 

Critical Reasoning

• Read the stem carefully and determine command words

• Read the stem again and identify relevant words

• Attempt to generate answer to the stem

• Examine each option carefully before moving to next option

• Attempt to identify the best option

• Utilize deductive reasoning strategies

Exam Development

Questions focus on decision-making vs. memorization

Levels of exam questions Knowledge Comprehension Application Analysis

Questions are derived from a variety of textbooks

Terminology is consistent with the Guide to Physical Therapist Practice

Several forms of the exam exist

Examination Blueprint

Performance Review & Analysis

Content Outline Weighting

Content Percentage Questions

Data Collection 20.6% 28-33

Diseases 28% 39-48

Interventions 30.6% 43-51

Equipment, Devices; Therapeutic Modalities

14.6% 2-24

Safety, Professional Responsibilities

6.2% 7-10

100% 150

Prior to Sitting for the Exam

Confirm appointment time & dateMake lodging and travel arrangements in

advanceBring a map & directionsDrive to test site before day of examBring money for parking, tolls, etcDress in layersEat a good meal; avoid high carbs &

beverages with stimulants; hydrateMust Arrive 30 minutes before test

Test Taking Skills

Item Individual multiple-choice questions

Stem Statement that asks the questions Extraneous information included NOT, EXCEPT, LEAST – may turn a positive stem into

a negative stemOptions

One option will be the best answer Other will be distractors

Clinical Application of PT Principles

Anatomy & Physiology of systemsPathologies/Conditions of the systemsDisease or conditions of the system to provide

effective treatmentMedical management of the systems such as

medical tests, medications, surgical proceduresPhysiological response to environmental factors

and characteristicsEffects of activities and exercise on the systemsJoint structure, mobility and function

Content Outline Summary

Content Percentage Questions

Physical Therapy Data Collection

20.60% 28-33

Diseases/Conditions 28.00% 39-48

Interventions 30.60% 43-51

Equipment & Devices; Therapeutic Modalities

14.60% 20-24

Safety & Professional Roles; Teaching/Learning; EBP

6.20% 7-10

100% 150

System Specific Summary

System Percentage

Musculoskeletal 21.33%

Neuromuscular & Nervous 20.00%

Cardiac, Vascular, & Pulmonary 12.67%

Integumentary 6.00%

Other System (GI, Metabolic & Endocrine and Multi-System)

12.67%

Non-System Specific Summary

Non-Systems Percentage

Equipment & Devices; Therapeutic Modalities

Equipment & Devices 6.00%

Therapeutic Modalities 8.67%

Safety & Professional Roles; Teaching/Learning; EBP

Safety, Protection, & Professional Roles 8.00%

Teaching & Learning 2.67%

EBP 2.00%

Total from both Tables 100%

Data Collection

Appropriate types of tests/measures and their application

Movement analysis of various systems

Physiological response of the systems

Kinesiology/kinematics

Diseases/Conditions

Essential scientific principles

Foundation for understanding involvement of a specific system in the treatment of patients for rehabilitation, health promotion and performance across the lifespan

Interventions

Application of interventions to the systems

Appropriate types of interventions

Physiological response to interventions

Complications from intervention to system

Effect on systems from interventions applied to other body systems

Motor control and motor learning related to the neuromuscular system

Wound management techniques

Cognition, affect, memory, arousal

Equipment & Devices

Assistive and adaptive devices

Prosthetic and orthotic devices

Protective and supportive devices

Gravity-assisted devices

Bariatric equipment and devices

Therapeutic Modalities

Indications, contraindications and precautions for the implementation of modalities

Physical agents

Mechanical modalities

Electrotherapeutic medication delivery

Electrical stimulation

Safety & Professional Roles

Risk factors for falls, use of restraints and equipment

Preparedness for emergency situations and CPR

Proper body mechanics

Injury preventionImplement infection

control measures

Legal obligations

Patient and client

rights

Human resources and

legal issues

Standards of

documentation

Risk guidelines

Roles and

responsibilities of all

health care providers

Teaching & Learning

Teaching and learning theories, techniques and strategies that include cognitive, motor impairments and abilities

Communication skills encompassing different styles and modes

Evidence-Based Practice

Suitability and application of outcomes measures

Data collection techniques, including surveys and direct observation

Basic research concepts and interpretation, such as validity and reliability

Study Concepts

Learning StylesTime ManagementLevels of Knowledge & UnderstandingGolden RulesAutomaticityTruths and MythsBlood PressureLines, Tubes, & EquipmentEmergent ConditionsAssessment

Learning Style

ActiveHear it, see it, say it, question it, interact with itStudy sessions should be 60-90 minutes, frequentGroup study recommendedInclude discussions, stimulations, hands-on & role play

PassiveHear it & read itStudy sessions should be 2-3 hours, 3-5X/weekInclude lectures, briefings, observations, handouts,

text and notes

Time Management

Allow at least 4-6 weeksDevelop a Master Schedule and follow it

Create a calendar Consider 2-3 hour study times, 6 days per week Set Goals

Allocate increased study time for more heavily weighted systems

Integrate “life balance” activitiesReassess program weekly

Knowledge & Understanding

Vocabulary Level (Who, What, When)Names, Definition

Literal Level (What, Where)Characteristics, Background, Location, Function

Interpretive Level (Why, When, Which)Composition, Classification, Ex of,

Purpose

Applied Level (How)Process Analysis, Process Synthesis and Evaluation

Golden Rules

When confronted with a situation where patient safety is potentially compromised, always consult physician

When choosing between a number of acceptable interventions, always select the most conservative to decrease patient safety risk

PTAs should always contact the supervising PT prior to changing any aspect of patient’s therapy session

Automaticity

Ability to quickly recall relevant facts, procedures and routines and apply this information within the context of a clinically-oriented multiple-choice question

When reviewing exam questions, consider other possible scenarios related to the subject being tested

Truths & Myths

Myth 1: The NPTAE has several different forms, each weighing a system differently

Myth 2: When studying it is important to be familiar with multiple academic resources for one topic since a question could require knowledge from a specific resource

Myth 3: The 50 pre-test questions are clearly identifiable

Truths & Myths

Myth 4: Candidates have exactly one hour to complete each section

Myth 5: A score of 75% is required to pass

Myth 6: Score on subsequent attempts of sample examinations are good indicators of success on the NPTAE

Blood Pressure

The NPTE is designed to protect consumers from unqualified practitioners

There are obvious safety implications associated with measuring & interpreting vital signs

It is inevitable that this will be tested

Lines, Tubes & Equipment

The purpose of the exam is to protect consumers

There will be questions that address patients with a compromised medical status

You should know: Lines

Tubes

Equipment

Emergent Conditions

Pulmonary Embolism

Hypovolemic Shock

Autonomic Dysreflexia

Assessment of Strengths & Weaknesses

Classroom Performance

Clinical Experience

Academic Program

Analysis of practice exam performances

DISCUSSION

What does it mean to be a

“Professional”?

The Professionalism Wheel

Tire: Behaviors

Hub: Core Values

Spokes:Relationships, Practices, and Skills

HUB

SPOKES

TIRE

Tire - Behaviors

Appearance

Communication

Organization

Teamwork

Appearance

• Dress • Interview vs. working in the clinic• Male vs. Female

• Hygiene

• Grooming

Purpose of Communication

Establish a rapport

Enhance relationships

Obtain information

Transmit pertinent information

Provide education

Increase adherence to education

Decrease patient’s health risk

Communication

Introductions

Interviewer, Patient, Co-worker

Communicating an answer to a patient’s question

Explaining a home program to a family member

Utilizing an interpreter

Speaking with a physician over the phone

Verbal Communication

Verbal commands should direct attentionInstruction should be simpleConvey sequence of events before treatmentAsk questions throughout sessionSpeak clearly & in a moderate/various toneBe sensitive to patient’s level of

understandingBe sensitive to cultural backgrounds

DISCUSSION

How can you practice active listening with a patient?

Non-Verbal Communication

Body language Posture – Open vs. Closed

Facial Expressions Gestures Eye contact

Physical characteristics Clothing Grooming

Written Communication

Patient documentation

Home exercise programs

Informed consent forms

Surveys

Resume writing

Professional emails

Written Communication

Write the information the same way it was verbally given

Organize information

Use short sentences & common words

Be specific

Give examples and provide pictures/diagrams

Allow the patient/client to interact

Organization

Practice excellent time management

Make timely decisions

Prioritize tasks

Organize paperwork

Keep your workspace organized

Organization

Keep a calendar system

Write it down

Be assertive

Be prepared

Schedule free time

DISCUSSION

What characteristics make an effective team specifically in rehabilitation?

Effective Teamwork

Leadership-respect, collaboration, flexible

Open and honest communication

A supportive environment

Making decisions together

Respect among all team members roles

Close physical proximity of team members

Education promotion

Teamwork & Positive Outcomes

• Sharing assessments of a patient with the team

• Discussing treatment strategies

• Remaining respectful of fellow team members approach to treating a patient

• Sharing documentation

• Regarding the patient as a member of the team

Teamwork & Negative Outcomes

• Assessing & treating a patient independent

• Failing to share effective treatment results

• Unwilling to help another when patient load is heavy

• Believing PT can treat & cure everyone

• Keeping separate documentation sites

• Failing to include the patient and/or family

DISCUSSION

What are the characteristics of an ineffective team?

Ineffective Teamwork

Defensive communication

A competitiveness among members

A hierarchy

A lack of respect for professional’s roles

A clashing team focus or philosophies

An authoritarian/apathetic-type leader

Geographical locations

DISCUSSION

Professional Behaviors

Professional Behaviors

Respects the Individual

Reliable

Truthful/ Trustworthy

Demonstrates Integrity

Confident

Positive attitude

Professional Behaviors

Cooperative

Demonstrates Clinical Reasoning

Demonstrates Empathy

Self Motivated

Lifelong Learner

Appearance

A patient’s opinion regarding your competency?

The reputation of the institution where you work?

The field of physical therapy?

A patient’s treatment outcomes?

PT & PTA

PTA & PATIENT

PTA & FAMILY

PTA & HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS

Treatment Outcomes Affected

EYE CONTACT

BODY LANGUAGE

ATTITUDE

FACIAL EXPRESSIONS

Behaviors Affect Outcome

Written Communication

How can medical record documentation affect a patient’s outcome?

How can a written home exercise program influence a patient’s outcome?

How can patient documentation affect team relationships?

Organization Skills Affect Outcomes

Fail to be on time for patient appointments

Fail to efficiently order equipment for a patient

Fail to schedule your free time

Fail to complete treatment notes on time

Fail to prepare properly

CORE VALUES

The Hub

Core Values

Set of values which determine the aspects of life we regard as important

Values will change as we grow, mature, have new experience and new influences

Some values are more fixed and stay with us through our life; these are 'core values'.

Where do our values stem from?

The Hub = Core Values

What Core Values do you possess?

What Core Values are important for a professional?

What Core Values do you think are important for a PTA?

APTA Defined Core Values

AccountabilityAltruismCompassion/CaringExcellenceIntegrityProfessional DutySocial Responsibility

RELATIONSHIPS, PRACTICES & SKILLS

The Spokes

Relationships, Practices and Skills

Connects the hub (core values) to the tire (behavior)

Demonstrates that the core values are present and are revealed in the behavior

Examples include: advocacy, continued competence, emotional intelligence, evidence based practice, leadership, mindful practice, respect, & responsibility

Job Search

Initiation – You have to want the job!Job Finding Resources

Internet APTA Head Hunters/Staffing Agencies Clinical Affiliations Referrals

Prepare your Resume Determine your References

Prepare your Cover LetterMental Preparation

Getting the Interview

Research the company Is it a setting where you would be interested in

working?

Submit your resume Website submission, Email, hand-delivered hard copy

Follow up after resume submitted

Letter to confirm your interview date and time

The Interview

What do I wear?What do I bring?Communication

Introducing yourself What would you like to convey verbally to the interviewer? What are key non-verbal communication behaviors to

exhibit? Sample questions to consider

Personal & behavioral questions Questions you ask about the position

Closing the dealFollow up-email, note, phone call

CORE VALUES

Case Studies

Teamwork Activity

Group members work as a team to implement a process for notifying an outpatient PT or PTA when a patient has arrived for an appointment. Currently the PT/PTA checks the waiting room frequently to see if the patient has arrived. The staff realizes that this is very unproductive, inefficient and disruptive.

As a team, work to develop an optimal plan for notifying the therapist of a patient’s arrival, discuss implementation and how you will assess the effectiveness of the plan.

One individual will ONLY observe team behaviors, record the groups interactions and determine the “effectiveness” of the team.

Case Study #1: Identifying Core Values

Sarah is a new graduate from PTA school working in her first job, outpatient orthopedics. Sarah is expected to see at least 34 patients in an 8 hour day. She has a patient arriving every 15 minutes and at times, she has 2 patients arriving at the same time. She spends her day bouncing between patients and often times must leave a patient unsupervised in the gym because she must administer treatment with a 2nd individual in a private setting. She recognizes that this situation is unethical.

Which of Sarah’s core values may be compromised in this situation?

Case Study #2: Core Values

Jason is a PTA who practices in worker’s compensation. He has chosen to volunteer at a community health fair promoting posture and the use of proper body mechanics. He will be volunteering on a Saturday outside of his work hours and will not be paid for his time.

Which core value(s) is Jason exemplifying?

Preparation for Next Class

Final Resume due

Certificate of completion for APTA Professionalism Module 1 is due

Live Scan/Fingerprinting

Finish application