Introduction to physical therapy for physical therapist assistants / Olga Dreeben-Irimia.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

The Profession of Physical Therapy: Development of the physical therapy profession -- The physical therapist assistant as a member of the health care team -- Physical therapy clinical practice. -- Major Physical Therapy Practice Specialties: Musculoskeletal (orthopedic) physical therapy -- Neurologic and cardiopulmonary physical therapy -- Pediatric, geriatric, and integumentary physical therapy. -- Ethical and Legal Issues. Ethics and professionalism -- Laws and regulations. -- Communication: Communication basics -- Introduction to documentation and the medical record -- Teaching, learning, and medical terminology -- Reimbursement and research. -- Patient Care Essentials for the Physical Therapist Assistant: Infection control, patient preparation, vital signs, and patient safety in clinical settings -- Patient positioning, body mechanics, and transfer techniques -- Wheelchairs, assistive devices, and gait training -- Hippocratic Oath -- Patient's Bill of Rights -- American Physical Therapy Association's code of ethics for physical therapists -- American Physical Therapy Association's standards of ethical conduct for physical therapist assistants -- Medical terminology in health care and physical therapy.

Written specifically for Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) students, this text is an introduction for physical therapist assistant's education. This new edition includes updated information regarding the relationship between the Physical Therapist (PT) and PTA and key concepts of the Guide to Physical Therapist Practice for better understanding of clinical guidelines. It also includes new information regarding clinical trends in physical therapy. Utilizing this text specifically for PTAs, instructors can introduce students to information regarding professionalism, professional roles, interpersonal communication, physical therapist's behavior and conduct, teaching and learning, and evidence based practice. This comprehensive text provides a resource throughout the physical therapist assistant's education and training throughout the entire duration of the PTA program.