Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy Distance Education Program
Academic Year May 2007 to May 2008

t-DPT Course Descriptions

Approved by the College of Health Professions Curriculum Committee.

Summer Semester 2007

PT-780T. Health Promotion and Disease Prevention. Online course. The purpose of this post-professional medical imaging course is to provide the physical therapist with the tools to investigate, interpret and implement the physical therapist related goals of Healthy People 2010 to the practice of Physical Therapy. The 10 “Leading Health Indicators” as outlined in Healthy People 2010 are investigated via online synchronous and asynchronous discussion boards with particular attention paid to current health indicators as they relate specifically to the citizens of the United States.  The online course will provide updated information on various topics consistent with the Healthy People 2010 focus areas. 2 s.h.  Dr. David Sword. Required.

PT-781T. Introduction to Research. Online course. This course will introduce physical therapists to concepts of quantitative research (and to a lesser extent, qualitative research) as it relates to evidence-based physical therapy practice by focusing on basic principles underlying the process of clinical science, including concepts and methods related to experimental research.  Four major aspects of the scientific method addressed will be: 1) Introductory Concepts, (2) Research Design, (3) Data Analysis and (4) Communication/Dissemination of Research. 2 s.h. Dr. Michael Saladin.  Required.

PT-782T. Imaging for the Physical Therapist. Online course introducing the foundations and principles of imaging and the use of imaging studies in physical therapist practice.  Case studies are used.  The course emphasizes the process and the role of the physical therapist practitioner (non-specialist) to make appropriate referrals. 2 s.h. Dr. Jack Thomas. Required.

Fall 2007

PT-783T. Pharmacology. Online course. This course provides the student with knowledge concerning pharmacokinetics and pharmacotherapeutic principles, adverse effects, and interactions.  The recognition of adverse effects and the influence of medications and natural remedies on function and rehabilitation will be emphasized. Many individuals receiving rehabilitation interventions are managed pharmacologically with prescription and/or over-the-counter medications.  Many patients/clients are also involved with the use of “natural” remedies that can have an impact on their function and wellbeing.  The physical therapist is in an optimal position to recognize and evaluate the effect of medications on the patient’s function and the rehabilitation process. 2 s.h.  Dr. David Morrisette. Required.

PT-784T. Differential Diagnosis. This online course takes a “body systems” approach in differential screening, interpretation of results, physical therapy diagnosis, and differentiating dysfunction within the scope of physical therapist practice from those that indicate a referral to other health care practitioners. 2 s.h. Dr. Kathleen Cegles. Required.

PT-785T. Research Seminar I. Online course. This course is second in a series of research courses that requires physical therapists to review, discuss, and critique peer reviewed journal articles related to their future research/scholarly product that have the potential to influence clinical activities.  Physical therapists will use the literature as a tool for evidence-based practice, using the APTA Hooked on Evidence as a resource in addition to other databases of systematic reviews.  Emphasis is placed on the quality of the literature and the results, as applicable to clinical practice. Physical therapists will identify a specific area for a comprehensive Case Study presentation in conjunction with an MUSC faculty or community clinician mentors. 2 s.h. Faculty. Required.

Spring 2008

PT-786T. Research Seminar II. Online course. This third in a series of post-professional research courses will provide the Physical Therapist ways to interpret and analyze a comprehensive clinical case designed around an evidence-based topic unique to the learner’s clinical situation on a specific patient/client.   Students will be encouraged to use the Guide to PT Practice as an organizational case analysis tool that summarizes physical therapist rights, roles, and responsibilities in treating patients/clients and in providing the PT a framework for clinical decision making. The patient/client management model utilizing examination methods, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, intervention, length of visits/stay, outcome measures and discharge planning are covered in this course. Multiple case examples will be utilized. 2 s.h. Faculty. Required.

PT-787T. Clinical Reasoning and Practice. Online course. Using a case study format, physical therapists will learn by way of student case problem presentations from a variety of patient/client populations and settings including those with musculoskeletal, neurological, integumentary, cardiovascular, pulmonary, and multi-system dysfunction throughout the lifespan.  This course emphasizes clinical reasoning and problem solving, by integrating complex, multifactoral patient problems.  The course culminates in a comprehensive written examination drawn from all areas across the curriculum. 3 s.h. Faculty. Required.

PT-788T. Clinical Reasoning and Practice Lab. This onsite two weekend laboratory course will take place using a case study format, by means of student case problem presentations from a variety of patient/client populations and settings including those with musculoskeletal, neurological, integumentary, cardiovascular, pulmonary, and multi-system dysfunction throughout the lifespan.  This laboratory course emphasizes clinical reasoning and problem solving, by integrating complex, multifactoral patient problems.  Physical therapists must demonstrate a high level of competency in knowledge, skill, and professional behavior through clinical decision-making, practical application, and other exam processes.  The course culminates in a comprehensive practical examination drawn from all areas across the curriculum. 1 s.h. Faculty. Required.

February 15, 2007