Physical Therapist Assistant Program (PTA) Student Handbook

MCC promotes and adheres to a policy of equal opportunity. The College, therefore, does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, religion, age, disability, marital status, national origin, sexual orientation, gender-related identity, veteran status, or any other unlawful bases, in its admissions, employment, educational programs, or activities.

Read MCC's Non-Discrimination Statement

Federal legislation, such as Executive Order 11246, Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Act, prohibits such discrimination.

The Student Handbook will be given to the incoming class during the Mandatory Orientation prior to the start of school. Handbooks can be accessed anytime online at the PTA website.

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See MCC's Mission, Vision, and Values

Physical Therapist Assistant Program Mission Statement

Provide comprehensive learning experiences leading to successful employment as an entry-level physical therapist assistant who is able to work under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist, and who is able to meet the needs of employers and the community.

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Students who graduate from MCC are expected to demonstrate the following competencies at a level appropriate for a two-year degree holder. Read MCC's General Education Goals

MCC PTA Program Goals

1. The PTA Program will produce clinically competent entry-level physical therapist assistants who work under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist and who are able to meet the needs of their patients, employers, and the community.
2. The Program will provide an organized, sequential, and comprehensive curriculum integrating classroom, laboratory and clinical education experiences to prepare graduates for contemporary, evidence-based physical therapy practice.
3. Program faculty will maintain currency in contemporary physical therapy practice to ensure a current, comprehensive evidence-based curriculum consistent with college requirements and CAPTE standards.
4. Faculty and students will promote the importance of lifelong learning, professional engagement, and community awareness regarding physical therapy.

Program Objectives

Graduates of the McHenry County College PTA Program will:

1. Work as a clinically competent entry-level physical therapist assistant under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist.
2. Demonstrate effective communication skills in a culturally competent manner with patients, family members/care givers, and health care professionals.
3. Increase community awareness of the role of the physical therapist assistant.
4. Demonstrate an awareness of the importance of lifelong learning and professional engagement.

The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program is designed to prepare individuals to function as entry-level physical therapist assistants. PTA graduates can find employment in a variety of healthcare and human service settings including hospitals, out-patient clinics, rehabilitation and extended care facilities, schools and specialized community care and wellness programs.

To encourage student success in the PTA program, students meet at least one time each semester to discuss and review their progress with a faculty member of the PTA program. This encourages the student to have a one-on-one time with faculty to discuss any concerns the student may express about his or her progress in the program.

If students have exams and/or assignments that are completed as part of the grade and expectation of the course and/or class with a grade below 75%, the student will also meet the course instructor to determine if the knowledge and concepts are understood.

Each class has a maximum faculty/student ratio of 1:16 in lectures and lab sections. To enhance the educational experience, specific course assignments or activities may include additional faculty to be present to ensure the safety and educational components of the activity.

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Faculty

• Christen Louderman, PT, DPT
  Full-Time Faculty — Program Chair
  clouderman@mchenry.edu
  (815) 479-7592
• Angela Wallace, PTA, MA
  Full-Time Faculty — Clinical Education Coordinator
  awallace90@mchenry.edu
  (815) 455-8904
• Shannon Guzick, PTA, BSPTA
  Adjunct Faculty
• Mallory Schug, PT, DPT
  Adjunct Faculty
• Dana Tress, PT, MS, CEAS, AIB-CON, LSVT-BIG
  Adjunct Faculty

Physical Therapist Assistant Program Chair

The program chair will lead the student selection committee for students applying to the PTA program. Academic and/or behavioral issues will be directed to the program chair to determine an appropriate resolution.

Physical Therapist Assistant Program Clinical Education Coordinator

The CEC of the PTA program will oversee all clinical education. The CEC will be the contact person for students as well as clinical sites (clinical instructors and CCCEs) regarding placement, questions or concerns with all matters related to clinical education.

Program Faculty

Program faculty's main focus is to lead students in the didactic program of the curriculum. The faculty will also have regular meetings with students to insure they are achieving their full potential within the program. Faculty will work with the program chair to assist in academic or behavioral issues that may arise with students. They will also be a member of the student selection committee.

Adjunct Faculty

Adjunct faculty teach one or more courses in the PTA didactic program. They are able to bring in experience and practical application to the clinical setting as they all are currently practicing in the clinic. Adjuncts will participate in the student selection committee as able. Adjunct faculty do not have scheduled student conference hours but will be available to students outside of class either before/after class or upon request.

Guest Lecturers

MCC's PTA program strives to deliver the best in current contemporary practice into the didactic program. In order to do this, we may invite experts in a field to guest lecture. These persons are not employed by MCC and may or may not be a licensed PT or PTA.

Center Coordinator of Clinical Education (CCCE)

The Center Coordinator of Clinical Education (CCCE) is an individual responsible for overseeing the clinical education program at a clinical site. The CCCE is responsible for the training and coordination of clinical instructors and the assigning the student to a clinical instructor. The CCCE helps in planning and problem solving with the clinical instructor and student team in a manner that enhances the clinical education learning experience. The CCCE is the student's contact at the facility related to the clinical experience at the facility. The CCCE is also the Program CEC's contact person at the clinical facility. The CCCE is responsible for developing and maintaining a current Clinical Site Information Form.

Clinical Instructor (CI)

The Clinical Instructor (CI) for Part- and Full-time clinical experiences is a licensed professional who is responsible for instruction, supervision, and evaluation of the student at the clinical education site. If the clinical instructor is a physical therapist assistant, a physical therapist will also work with the student and clinical instructor. CIs and CCCEs are expected to have at least one year of professional experience. At some sites, more than one CI may supervise one or more students.

Curriculum Course Sequence

Course Descriptions

PTA 101 — Introduction to PTA

PTA 120 — PTA Patient Interventions I

PTA 130 — PTA Patient Assessment I

PTA 141 — PTA Kinesiology

PTA 142 — PTA Pathophysiology

PTA 145 — Introduction to Clinical Education

PTA 210 — PTA Patient Assessment II

PTA 220 — PTA Patient Interventions II

PTA 240 — PTA Administration

PTA 250 — PTA Clinical Experience I

PTA 251 — PTA Clinical Experience II

PTA 252 — PTA Clinical Seminar

Knowledge of Program and College Guidelines and Procedures

The PTA program abides by MCC's policies. See the board policy manual for the most current college policies.

Students are expected to have a working knowledge of the content of the MCC PTA Program Student Handbook, which is provided annually during the fall semester. After reviewing the Student Handbook, students will sign and date the "Student Handbook Agreement", which is an agreement where the student states they understand the content of the handbook and agree to abide by the policies and procedures set forth during their tenure as a Physical Therapist Assistant student. Students will also be able to access the PTA Program Student Handbook on the program website.

The PTA Program Student Handbook is reviewed and revised annually by program faculty. To ensure all program policies are consistent with those of the College, the handbook is reviewed annually by the Interim Associate Vice President of Career Technical, Work Force Education and Health Professions. Program faculty will consider input for manual revisions from students, college administration, the PTA program advisory committee, and clinical faculty. When changes are made after the initial publication of each year's Student Handbook, PTA Program students and MCC's administration will be notified of the updates. The Handbook available on the program website will also be updated.

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Course Grading

The grading scale that will be used in the PTA Program is as follows:

• All lecture/lab and clinical education courses must be taken in sequence.
• A minimum grade of "C" is required in all general education and technical courses within the PTA Program Curriculum.
• GPA calculation is consistent with MCC policy.
• Grades will not be rounded in any course.
• All course assignments must be turned in on time and must be college-level work. Faculty have the right to not accept late assignments, and/or deduct points for late or unacceptable work per course syllabi.
• For each PTA technical course, students must average a minimum of 75% for all lecture examinations to successfully pass the course, regardless of non-examination grades.
• For the four clinical education courses within the program curriculum, Satisfactory (S) or Unsatisfactory (NC) grades are given. Please refer to the Clinical Education Handbook regarding grading for these courses.

Grades on Individual Assignments

Students receiving a grade below C on a paper/assignment will receive a request from the faculty member to meet and ensure knowledge has been obtained at a satisfactory level. Evaluation of this knowledge can be in the form of discussion, or additional assignments. The earned grade will not be changed. These advisement meetings will be documented as well as the method used to demonstrate knowledge or skill attainment and placed in the student file. Failure to complete the evaluation of this knowledge will lead to academic probation.

Skills Checks

A skill check is an assessment of a student's ability to demonstrate competence in a PTA skill. Skill check assessments are done in two different ways. First, a peer skill checks must be completed with a lab partner. Students will then have the opportunity to work on any problem areas prior to being tested by a course instructor. Faculty skill checks performed by an instructor will be performed during open lab times or during scheduled course labs, if there is time.

Skill checks contain safety elements of PTA skills that must be completed in order to pass the skill check. If a student fails any safety element, they automatically fail the skill check and must retake it. Cueing by the instructor needed to complete a skill check results in reduction of a student's score.

Students must successfully pass a skill check prior to taking the practical exam which contains the skill check content area. It is the student's responsibility to make sure all skill checks have been completed prior to practical exams. If skill checks are not completed prior to a practical exam, the student will receive a 0% on the practical exam, and will then receive two additional attempts to pass the exam.

Students who have successfully passed a skill check are considered to have demonstrated competence in that skill, and are expected to maintain their competence through regular review of the skill.

Practical Exams

Practical Exams are used to assess a student's ability to effectively and safely integrate course material and perform a patient treatment following a physical therapist's plan of care. Practical exams integrate content from current and prior program courses. Students must achieve a minimum of a 75% competency on each lab practical examination within a course in order to achieve a passing grade in that course. Failure of any safety-related criteria results in a retake of some or all parts of the practical examination, as determined by the instructor. Students must successfully pass the retake within 3 academic weeks of receiving notification of their original practical examination score. Students will be allowed a maximum of two re-takes for a failed practical examination.

If a student scored above 75% on the initial practical examination but must complete the retake due to a safety issue only, the maximum score for the 1st retake will be 85% or the original score, whichever is lower; second retake the maximum score will be 75%. If a student obtains a score lower than 75% on the initial practical examination, a maximum score of 75% will be used for final grade calculation regardless of number of retakes.

If a student does not have the skill check(s) related to a practical exam completed at the scheduled time of the practical exam, the student will receive failing grade for the student's first attempt at the practical exam. Once the related skill check(s) are completed, the student can then complete up to two retakes as stated above.

Students will receive detailed instructions and a score sheet at least one week prior to scheduled practical exams. Students will also be required to have been signed off on two peer skill checks and one faculty skill check prior to taking the practical exam.

Required cueing to complete a practical exam will result in a reduction in the student's score. Unsafe behavior during a practical exam is, at the instructor's discretion, grounds for immediate failure of the practical exam. Sharing practical exam scenarios or information with classmates who have not yet taken the exam is considered academic dishonesty and will be treated as such.

Make-Up Exams

Students should notify the instructor in advance if unable to take a scheduled examination. If the student fails to notify the instructor prior to testing, a grade of "0" will be awarded. A make-up exam will not be given in this circumstance.

The type of make-up exam given is at the discretion of the faculty and may be essay, short answer, open book, multiple-choice, oral or any combination of test formats. The student should make every effort to make-up the exam as soon as possible. Exams not made up within one week of the scheduled date may be awarded a grade of "0" at the discretion of the instructor.

Professional Behaviors

Professional behavior by students is expected at all times. Students are expected to follow professional standards when in the classroom, laboratory and clinical settings. Guidelines for these standards are as follows:

1. Professional Behaviors (see PTA Program Resources) — Ten specific "Professional Behaviors" are assessed throughout the PTA Program curriculum. PTA program faculty will assess the Professional Behaviors once per semester with students also performing a self-assessment once per semester.

   Expected Professional Behavior levels are:

   1. End of Semester I: All Professional Behaviors at least beginning level
   2. End of Semester II: 50% of Professional Behaviors at intermediate level or higher
   3. End of Semester IV: all Professional Behaviors at least intermediate level
   4. End of Semester V: all Professional Behaviors at entry level

   Faculty will provide both oral and written feedback regarding professional behaviors each semester. Copies of this feedback will be placed in the student's file. Students are expected to change unsatisfactory behaviors after receiving feedback from faculty, and faculty will discuss any concerns about professionalism as soon as concerns arise. If a student is not demonstrating professional behaviors at an appropriate level at the end of each semester, students will be placed on probation or dismissed from the program.

2. American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) Standards of Ethical Conduct for the Physical Therapist Assistant (see PTA Program Resources)

Professional Appearance

In the interest of safety and professionalism, students are expected to adopt the following professional appearance behaviors during lab, skill checks, practical exams, and field trips:

1. No hats
2. Trimmed, clean nails
3. No excessive jewelry
4. No excessive makeup
5. No visible face or mouth jewelry/piercings other than small earrings located in ears
6. No offensive body odor
7. Neat, clean, appropriate clothing
8. Hair neatly groomed and out of face

Exceptions to the PTA dress code may be made for religious, cultural, or medical reasons. Please refer to the PTA Program Clinical Education Handbook for information professional appearance behaviors expected during clinical education.

Confidentiality

McHenry County College has designated that certain data is considered public or private data in accordance with the Family Educational Right and Privacy Act (FERPA). See details on FERPA. PTA Program will maintain privacy/confidentiality in the following manner:

1. Grades will be posted using Canvas software, which requires students to sign in using an individual password.
2. All exams, quizzes, and assignments will be returned in a manner that does not expose the grade.
3. Feedback is provided after skill checks and practical exams with only the student and instructor(s) present. When necessary or helpful, instructors will obtain permission if they would like to provide feedback in front of other students.
4. Clinical faculty must follow the data privacy policies of MCC and the PTA Program.
5. Requests for student information from any government agency will be referred to the Registrar's office.
6. Students will sign a confidentiality agreement which applies to maintaining the privacy and confidentiality of patients during all clinical experiences.
7. During the first semester of the PTA program, students are instructed in basic Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) policies and procedures for proper use and handling of confidential patient/client information. They are also required to pass an online instructional module/knowledge test prior to their first clinical education course.

Maintain Records

The PTA Program maintains files that include department/student forms, consent forms, waivers of liability, contracts or correspondence. These files are maintained for all students and are stored in a locked file cabinet in the CEC's office for clinical education information and the PTA Program Chair's office for all other information. Records in relation to transcripts and clinical education will be retained by the college permanently.

Students may review the contents of their file during the CEC or PTA Program Chair's respective posted office hours. Information will be maintained for two years after graduation to assist faculty in providing employment references for students. After two years the files will be destroyed following MCC's guidelines for discarding confidential information.

Copies of completed midterm and final exams will be kept in locked file cabinets in faculty offices. Students will not be allowed to keep copies of completed midterm or final exams. Prior to final exams, faculty will schedule a review session for students during which student test files will be available for review. This review will be proctored by a faculty member and students will not be allowed to leave the room with their test file. All exams will be maintained for 2 years and destroyed per MCC guidelines.

Applications of students who were not accepted into the program will be shredded two years from the application time period.

Attendance

Due to the rigorous nature of the PTA program attendance in all course lectures, laboratory and clinical experiences is required. Any student who is absent for a combined total of three (3) days in one didactic course will receive an automatic reduction in the final letter grade and may lead to Academic Probation. Tardiness is defined as arriving late or leaving class early for any reason up to 15 minutes. Anything over 15 minutes will be considered an absence. Three (3) tardies will equal one absence. Faculty will not repeat any missed content due to tardiness or absence. If the student has two absences in one course the PTA program faculty will require an advising session to create a corrective plan.

In the event an excused absence or excused tardy causes the student to miss daily work, such as quizzes, lab activities and presentations, these may be made up at the discretion of the instructor. If a student misses a scheduled exam, the exam may be made up as described below. Excused absence or tardy is defined as a written or phone message prior to the start of class.

Weather and Class Cancellation

In the event of a campus closing due to weather or other circumstances the faculty will reach out to the students via Canvas as soon as possible. In the case of a campus closing classes will be held remotely via Zoom at the regularly scheduled time unless otherwise indicated by the instructor. If you are unable to access reliable technology at home during a school closure, please contact the program chair, Dr. Louderman, prior to any possible closings to find a solution.

Technology

If a course is delivered remotely as scheduled or due to college closing, students are expected to follow basic Zoom etiquette (see PTA Program Resources). In addition, students are not allowed to video, take screen shots, or photos of the online Zoom sessions. The instructor will be recording the sessions and will make them available to students after the sessions.

Please use the video feature for Zoom if you are able. We realize there can be bandwidth issues or environments in which the video option is not ideal. Please contact the instructor to inform of any situations which would require you to not use the video feature. In addition, please mute your microphone when you are not talking.

The instructor reserves the right to mute, turn off video, or remove a student from the Zoom learning environment for any offensive or disrespectful behavior. The Student Code of Conduct is applicable to the online and in-person environment.

To stay focused, please turn off cell phones and any competing applications.

Student Advisement

PTA students must meet with their assigned faculty advisor at least one time each semester to review the student's progress and ensure a plan is in place for successful completion. Regular advising meetings are planned to address class scheduling, program progression planning, preparation for capstone clinical education, and for graduation. Students are encouraged to seek out additional advising as necessary. The faculty advisor will document each meeting, including any issues, concerns or problems identified along with the results. Students are entitled to a copy of the documentation and any plan made and agreed to by the student and the faculty advisor. Documentation is maintained in each student's locked file.

Student Code of Conduct

PTA students are expected to uphold academic integrity and demonstrate professional behaviors at all times. See college policies and procedures related to the Student Code of Conduct.

The student is expected to act in a responsible mature manner that reflects the qualities, reliability, and responsible interpersonal skills. These skills include, but are not limited to: using critical thinking skills in determining one's actions in the clinical and classroom setting; accepting responsibility for one's own actions, including preparing sufficiently for class and clinical; taking exams as scheduled and completing assignments on time, including patient/client care; responding appropriately and in a timely fashion to constructive criticism and feedback from faculty, clinical site, staff and peers; giving prior notification in writing or voicemail to faculty if unable to meet commitments and following up with faculty regarding potential make up requirements; dealing with others (peers, faculty, staff, patients/clients and their families) in an honest, respectful, sensitive and non-judgmental manner that communicates respect for individual differences; respecting others' space and time through the demonstration of such actions as turning off cell phones, avoiding disruptive sidebar conversations, and refraining from texting in class and clinical settings.

Profanity, derogatory comments, and emotional responses which inhibit learning will not be permitted. Unacceptable behaviors include, but are not limited to: willful or intentional physical and/or mental harm to a patient/client, fellow student or staff; refusing to assume the assigned and necessary care of a client or failure to inform the instructor with immediacy when changes to clinical assignments are necessary; discussing confidential information in inappropriate areas, such as elevators or the cafeteria; discussing confidential information about a client with third parties who do not have a clear and legitimate need to know; or inattentiveness to classroom work.

Social media constitutes the use of, but is not limited to Facebook, Twitter, email and blogging. Use of social media is permitted, but only in a professional manner that adheres to the Physical Therapy Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice for the Physical Therapist Assistant. All students must be aware that there is no such thing as "private social media" and must be cognizant of an unintended audience viewing any postings. Any of the following will be considered a violation of this policy: names, identifiers or any information leading to the identification of any patient may be referenced; no photos may be taken (including electronic devices) at the clinical site; the use of social media during class, lab or clinical is prohibited; derogatory statements toward other students, faculty or employees of clinical sites are prohibited; professional boundaries with patients or previous patients in the online environment must be adhered to; confidential information regarding an exam, assignment, or quiz may not be shared; any other evidence of unprofessional behavior using media; clinical experiences are not to be discussed on any social network.

Additionally, honesty is expected of all PTA students both in the classroom and clinical settings. Acts of lying, cheating, plagiarism, forgery, alteration and/or falsification of clinical documents, written work, or academic records will lead to failure of a PTA course. In addition, the student's actions may be subject to review by the MCC Conduct Review Committee.

Academic Progress

Standards of academic progress are established to require students to progress satisfactorily and timely towards the completion of their degree. Students are responsible for their academic progress and for seeking assistance when experiencing academic difficulty. Students are encouraged to work closely with their advisor or a counselor to ensure that they are successfully completing graduation requirements and maintaining satisfactory progress.

All PTA Program general education and technical courses must be completed with a grade of "C" or higher (or "Satisfactory" (S) for Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory courses). If students do not obtain a minimum grade of "C" in any course within the PTA Program curriculum, the student will be dismissed from the program.

For each PTA technical course, students must average a minimum of 75% for all lecture examinations to successfully pass the course, regardless of non-examination grades.

Students must pass all skill checks prior to participating in associated lab practical. Students must achieve a minimum of a 75% competency on each lab practical examination within a course in order to achieve a passing grade in that course. Failure of any safety-related criteria results in a re-take of some or all parts of the practical examination, as determined by the instructor. Students must successfully pass the retake within 3 academic weeks of receiving notification of their original practical examination score. If a student obtains a score above 75% on a re-taken practical examination, a maximum score of 75% will be used for final grade calculation. Students will be allowed a maximum of two re-takes for a failed practical examination.

Withdrawal

Withdrawal from a Course for non-academic circumstances: Student must be in good academic standing (grade of "C" or better in all PTA program lecture/laboratory courses, and a grade of "S" in all Clinical Experiences) to withdraw from a course and therefore from the PTA program. This differs from the college as there is no academic standing expectation to withdrawal. This is to prevent a student who has not completed a PTA program course from withdrawing from a course to avoid a grade of D or F that would result in dismissal from the program.

Probation and Dismissal

A student enrolled in the PTA Program who does not meet the following criteria will be placed on program probation and subject to dismissal:

1. The instructor may place a student on probation if the student attendance has not met the program attendance guideline.
2. The student disciplinary procedure will be initiated due to substandard, unethical, or inappropriate conduct at the discretion of the PTA Program Chair in consultation with the PTA Program faculty. Program probation or dismissal may result for any of the following reasons:
   1. Possession or use of alcohol or any mood altering chemical on the premises of MCC or clinical education sites. This includes attending class or clinical education while intoxicated.
   2. Unexcused and/or excessive absenteeism and/or falsification of sick time.
   3. Grossly unethical or unprofessional behavior.
   4. Gross carelessness in regard to safety of patients or colleagues.
   5. Release of confidential information regarding patients, and/or clinical education site personnel or activities.
3. Because the Professional Behaviors reflect behaviors necessary for success as a physical therapist assistant in the clinical environment, failure to demonstrate progress in the Professional Behaviors, or failure to meet the specific behavior levels by the defined target dates.

Disciplinary Procedure — Sequence for Behavioral Reasons

1. Upon determination of a student's inappropriate conduct, the faculty member who was involved will meet with the student to discuss the matter and inform the student of the specific conduct that is deemed inappropriate. A verbal warning concerning the inappropriate behavior will be given to the student and a written record of the behavior will be placed in the student's program file.
2. If the student's conduct and behavior does not improve, the instructor involved will meet or speak a second time with the student, at which time a written warning is given with documentation of specific actions needed to improve performance. A copy of the documentation will be placed in the student file with a copy sent to the Dean of Academic Affairs. There will be a deadline given for definite measurable improvement to be demonstrated by the student.
3. If satisfactory improvement is not demonstrated before the deadline, the PTA Program Chair may place the student on PTA Program probation or dismiss the student from the program.
4. Conduct deemed egregious will result in immediate probation or dismissal of the student without a verbal or written warning.

Academic Integrity

The PTA Program abides with the MCC Academic Dishonesty Policy outlined in the MCC Student Code of Conduct and Disciplinary Process Handbook. Academic dishonesty or cheating includes, but is not limited to:

• Copying from another student's test paper and/or collaboration during a test with any other person by giving or receiving information without authority; using materials during a test not authorized by the instructor.
• Stealing, buying, or otherwise obtaining all or part of an un-administered test or information about said test.
• Selling, giving, or otherwise supplying to another student for use in fulfilling an academic requirement, any theme, report, term paper; or submitting as one's own, in fulfillment of an academic requirement, any theme, report, term paper, essay, or other work prepared totally or in part by another.
• Submitting nearly identical work that one has previously offered for credit in another course, without prior approval of the instructor.

Plagiarism and cheating in any form is subject to disciplinary action, including but not limited to a failing grade for the test or assignment, a failing grade for the course, and/or probation from the PTA Program.

Re-Entry Petition Process

Students who have been dismissed from the program due to not passing a single PTA course or a requested leave of absence based on a documented medical leave or personal reasons will be allowed to petition for re-entry into the program. The student may petition to repeat the course the next time the course is offered. Students who do not follow through on the petition and action plan will not be allowed to re-enter the program. Re-entry into the program sequence will be based upon space availability at the time of petitioning. If a student requests re-entry due to illness or injury, the student's physician or nurse practitioner must release a student and give clearance. The following criteria must be met in order to re-enter the program:

1. Students must meet all college and program admission requirements.
2. The student must request readmission to the program in writing.
3. Program faculty will determine the appropriateness for readmission on a case-by-case basis, considering factors such the student's status at the time of exit from the program, reason for program withdrawal, justification for readmission, adequacy of program space and staffing levels.
4. The student must follow the policies and procedures of the program which are consistent with the academic year he/she is readmitted.
5. All courses in the PTA curriculum must be completed within a three-year period from date of entry into the program.
6. If the content of any course is different from when the student initially took the course prior to withdrawal from the program, the student will be required to complete all course syllabi objectives and goals, pass all skill checks, quizzes, and exams for the new information. PTA faculty will develop appropriate materials to meet the new or revised objectives.
7. The student is responsible for maintaining the ability to satisfactorily perform all previously-learned skills. Demonstration of satisfactory performance will be required prior to readmission into the program.
8. A student is eligible for readmission into the PTA program one time only.

A student who has not passed any two (2) PTA program courses, or the same PTA course or clinical experience twice, will be dismissed from the program without the ability to petition for re-entry.

Course Transfer

General Education and Support courses taken at another institution will be evaluated by the office of Admissions to determine if they can be accepted by McHenry County College for credit. All PTA courses must be taken at MCC. Neither physical therapist nor physical therapist assistant students may transfer into the program from other developing or accredited programs.

Length of Program

If a student needs to repeat a semester or takes a leave of absence due to documented medical or personal reasons, the length of the program may be extended by up to 12 months; extending the program length to three years. The extension limitation is in the interest of knowledge currency. Both Clinical Experience II and Clinical Experience III must be completed within 18 months of the completion of didactic course work. A leave of absence or repeating a semester may only be requested one time during the duration of the PTA program.

Graduation Criteria

Upon successful completion of the following criteria, McHenry County College will grant an Associate of Applied Science Degree with a major in Physical Therapist Assistant.

1. Credit Courses: Students are required to complete all program general education and technical coursework with a minimum grade of "C" for each course.
2. Clinical Education: Students are required to pass all clinical education courses.
3. Student must be assessed at "Entry-level" for all ten Professional Behaviors by program faculty.

The graduation date will be defined as the month of graduation commencement or the end of clinical experiences, whichever comes later. In order to qualify to participate in commencement, a student must have met all program requirements and be in good academic standing.

Program Costs

For estimated program costs, including tuition, fees, and other program-related expenses, see the PTA Program Financial Fact Sheet (PDF). Costs are subject to change.

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Equipment

Students are responsible for thoughtful care of all equipment utilized in lab instruction. Any student willfully damaging equipment will be financially responsible for repair or replacement. If equipment is accidentally damaged and a student causes and/or discovers it, and reports it to the instructor, the student will not be financially responsible.

The PTA program is responsible for maintaining a safe environment for students in the lab and during completion of other educational activities. Before the start of each semester, PTA Program Faculty will perform a visual inspection and operate any electrical equipment that will be used during the semester. Inspection by a qualified bio-medical engineer and/or repairs will be made or arranged by the program as needed. Students will receive instruction in proper use of equipment prior to utilizing it in a learning activity with peers.

Toxic and/or aerosol materials will be used only in open, well-ventilated spaces. Protective coverings will be used on all surfaces. The Safety Data Sheets (SDS) book is kept in the lab room for chemical information on specific chemicals.

Annual Preventative Maintenance

All laboratory electrical equipment will be inspected annually by a biomedical company and a sticker will be placed on the item indicating the date.

Universal Precautions

During classroom lab activities, hands should be washed between sessions of working with different class members or faculty members. Gloves must be worn if a student or instructor has unhealed skin lesions on his or her hands. All used gloves must be disposed of in a container for regulated waste. In the event that any surface in the lab becomes contaminated with body fluids, appropriate cleanup procedures will be implemented, including any needed assistance from maintenance personnel.

Students will receive instruction and assessment in Universal Precautions at least annually. Documentation of acceptable knowledge and skill will be maintained in each student's clinical education file.

Infection Control

The program is responsible for maintaining a safe and healthy environment for students and faculty while in the classroom setting and during any relevant learning activities. General cleaning and maintenance procedures, performed on a regular basis, include the following:

• The classroom area will be cleaned and maintained in accordance with the guidelines developed by McHenry County College.
• Program equipment should be cleaned with an antiseptic solution available in the classroom; this includes all treatment tables, wheelchairs, canes, walkers, therapy balls, etc.
• Linens used in class are to be washed at the completion of each session of use.

Food and Beverages

No food or beverages are allowed in room E201 or E215, the PTA Program Laboratory or simulation apartment, during class or during open lab time, except for travel mugs and beverage bottles with closeable lids.

Use of Prescribed Medications

The student must provide signed documentation from the prescribing practitioner to attend and participate in clinical activities without restriction. It is the student's responsibility to determine from a physician or nurse practitioner whether a medically prescribed drug may affect clinical performance. The student must report the use of such drugs or other substances that may impair clinical performance to the instructor. Failure to report the use of such drugs or substances or failure to provide proper evidence of medical authorization for use may result in the student's termination from the program.

Additional Requirements: Health, Legal and CPR

To participate in classroom and clinical education activities, students must have on file at MCC Department of Physical Therapist Assistant Program documentation of all the following health requirements. You must also have a copy of evidence of current Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification, Blood Borne Pathogens, and HIPAA compliance. Students will complete Blood Borne Pathogens and HIPAA compliance as part of the program prior to going on any clinical experience. All students are encouraged to keep copies of all legal and health information. The college may not release any of this information except to the student specifically.

Proof of Immunization

Documentation of immunization or record of disease is required for:

• Rubella (Measles)
• Rubella (German Measles)
• Mumps
• Tetanus and Diphtheria
• Varicella (chicken pox)
• Polio
• COVID-19

Documentation of immunization for influenza is also required, when it is available in the fall.

Documentation of Evidence of Hepatitis B Vaccination Series

Because the Hepatitis B vaccination is a series of three inoculations over a six-month period, we recommend that you begin the Hepatitis series as soon as possible. You must have the first two vaccinations of the series complete by the end of the first semester. Students do have the option of declining the Hepatitis B vaccination series. If students decline this vaccination series, they must sign the declination statement.

Documentation of Evidence of Yearly Tuberculosis (TB) Testing

The Department requires all students to have results of a Mantoux skin test for tuberculosis (TB) completed within the last twelve months on file with the Physical Therapy Assistant Program CEC at all times. A student who was immunized against TB or received treatment for TB and has a positive Mantoux needs to have a chest x-ray done to demonstrate that there is no evidence of active TB. The Physical Therapy Assistant Program CEC and the clinical site, when appropriate, must be given documentation that the radiograph was clear of evidence of active TB. According to guidelines, a chest radiograph should be repeated every four years or sooner if required by a clinical facility.

In addition to the Department's guideline for TB testing, some clinical education facilities may require a more recent test, such as within 30 days before the first day at the clinical education site, or a "two-step" TB test.

Physical Exam

Documentation of current physical examination is required for all clinical education to be on file with the Physical Therapy Assistant Program CEC. The specific form for the physician to complete can be found under Health Screening in PTA Program Resources.

CPR Certification

Evidence of current certification in Healthcare Provider CPR is required. Healthcare Provider CPR will include CPR training for the adult, child and infant as well as training in the use of an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED). Contact the American Heart Association or American Red Cross to schedule certification or recertification training in all of the areas listed above. You may also complete the certification through MCC's Career Spark Center Health Careers.

Drug Testing and Criminal Background Checks

PTA Clinical Education sites require the student to complete a drug test and fingerprinting, or supply the results of a criminal background check. Students are responsible for costs associated with these tests (Cost of Testing and Check paid via Course Fee). Students who present with positive results without documentation of medical necessity will not be allowed to begin or continue in the program. The student may apply for readmission and/or re-entry after one year pending evidence of subsequent treatment, counseling and negative drug screen. Refusal by a student to submit to testing will result in that student's dismissal from the program. Instructions for completion of the drug screening process will be provided by the PTA Program Chair/CEC.

Criminal background checks will be performed by the vendor hired by the college. Students will also be screened for clearance on the sex offender registry and child abuse clearance.

Impaired Students

If, in the judgment of the instructor, the student's ability to function safely in the clinical area is impaired, the student will be immediately removed. The instructor will document the incident and report it to the Program Chair. A copy of the Report of Student Update will be incorporated into the student's file. A student conduct code violation will also be submitted to the college.

• Once this is documented, the student will be placed on an action plan by department to determine reasonable actions to be taken.
• This includes but is not limited to falling asleep in the classroom or clinical location.

Field Trip Guideline

At times during the course of the PTA Program, students and faculty may travel off campus for departmental related field trips. These field trips may be scheduled in the evenings or on Saturdays. The following procedures apply for field trips:

• Travel Request Forms must be filled out by faculty prior to traveling.
• All MCC Policies are applicable during the trip.
• Students participating in field trips are required to sign the "Waiver of Liability Assumption of Risk, and Indemnity Agreement — on/off Campus Activities" form prior to the activity. This waiver is located in PTA Program Resources.

Lab Access Outside of Class Hours

Students will be able to access both the PTA lab and the simulation apartment outside of class hours given no other class is in session. For the simulation apartment, student may check the schedule posted outside of room for open hours. Students will need to gain access from a faculty of the PTA or OTA programs. Access to either the PTA lab or simulation apartment will not be permitted if faculty is not in the building. Supervised Open Lab times are available during the academic week.

Students may use equipment in the PTA lab with the exception of any modality, electrical device and/or traction. Use of modalities, electrical devices and traction is limited to class time and open lab hours with faculty present.

Inappropriate behavior will not be tolerated and may lead PTA department or college sanctions. Laboratory and simulation apartment are to be cleaned and returned to previous condition prior to exiting.

Employment

Balancing employment with the demands of the PTA program is very difficult. The student is expected to be alert in both class and in clinical for academic success and client safety. Clinical and classroom expectations and schedules will not be altered to accommodate student employment.

BBP/HIPAA are mandatory trainings that will be completed on a yearly basis to ensure safety guidelines and compliance. Specific information will be given to students on how and when to complete the required trainings.

Health Insurance

Students are required to show proof of current in-force health insurance. If a student does not have health insurance, please see the Physical Therapist Assistant Program Chair to discuss options within the community.

Informed Consent

Students within the PTA program are expected to perform a variety of physical therapy procedures on each other in the classroom and laboratory for educational purposes. This participation is very important to the learning process. Students must sign a consent form and a General Waiver of Liability prior to practicing laboratory skills. Students will sign a consent form at the start of the program that will remain in effect during the student's tenure in the PTA Program. Students will sign a General Waiver at the beginning of each semester of the PTA Program. Consent forms will be kept on file in the PTA Program Chair's office. General Waivers will be kept on file in Student Services.

Photography and Videotaping

PTA students, on occasion in classroom and laboratory settings, will be simulating a work environment and will practice on one another. During this time, you may be videotaped or have digital pictures taken of you, both of which will be used only for educational or assessment purposes. You will be asked to sign a permission form to allow videotaping and digital photography at the start of the first semester of the PTA Program. This form will remain in effect for the duration of the student's tenure in the PTA Program.

If a student wishes to photograph or videotape a patient for educational purposes, they must follow the policies and procedures of the clinical education site for confidentiality and for obtaining consent.

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PTA students are required to comply with the MCC academic policies found in the McHenry County College catalog

See additional student policies.

Student Grievance Procedure

For any issue a student encounters that he/she wishes to appeal, including but not limited to clinical failure, course grade, or behavioral issues, the student must attempt to resolve this issue first informally in a professional manner and then, if the issue is not resolved, the student should initiate a formal complaint.

1. Step 1 (Informal)
   The student will contact the faculty member to review the grade and determine the specific claim of unfairness. If the faculty member no longer works at MCC, the student will proceed to Step 2.
2. Step 2 (Formal)
   If a resolution is not met in Step 1, the student will meet with the faculty member's dean to clearly outline a formal grade appeal in writing. The formal appeal must identify the specific claim of unfairness and include all evidence to support such a claim. The dean will consider the appeal and communicate the decision in writing.
3. Step 3 (Formal)
   If a resolution is not met in Step 2, the student may make a final appeal to the dean of Student Development within seven business days of the dean's communication. The dean of Student Development will review only material submitted in Step 2 and determine if the student has made a substantiated claim of unfairness. If the dean of Student Development determines that the claim is unsubstantiated, the appeal will be denied. If the dean of Student Development determines that the claim is substantiated, the vice president of Academic and Student Affairs will review the appeal and evidence submitted in Step 2 and make a final decision. The dean of Student Development will communicate the decision in writing.

   Note: Under limited circumstances, a student may petition for a change of grade after 30 calendar days following the last day of the course by submitting a written explanation and supporting documents (e.g. doctor's notes, court documents, etc.) to the vice president of Academic and Student Affairs for review.

College Safety Guidelines

Upon entry into the program, during student orientation, students will receive instruction of all published McHenry County College safety guidelines and procedures addressing medical emergency procedures, reporting of incidents, fire procedures, building evacuations, tornadoes, bomb threats, etc. Copies of all these materials are maintained in the PTA classroom/lab for reference. Program faculty will assume responsibility for assisting or directing assistance for any person with a disability who needs to relocate due to a safety issue. See Medical Emergency Procedures.

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MCC supports the development of the whole person. In keeping with this philosophy, the college offers a wide range of services and promotes responsible participation in student life activities. All of these services are available to all MCC students.

Rave Emergency Notification a.k.a. MCC Campus Alert

Set up emergency notifications. This notification system will notify students via email, phone call, or text message when the college is closed. It is highly recommended for every student to sign up. This is the best way to have the most up-to-date information.

Bookstore a.k.a. MCC Store

McHenry County College has a bookstore on campus where students are able to purchase required textbooks and supplemental supplies for various courses in the curriculum.

See additional information or shop the MCC Store online.

Career Services

Career Services provides students and alumni with job-seeking assistance such as resume writing, interview skills, job-search techniques, and internship opportunities. Dress for Success seminars are available through MCC101. Job opportunities may be found using Hire a Scot or appointments can be made by calling (815) 455-8940.

Children's Learning Center

The Children's Learning Center (CLC) provides a positive learning environment for young children, in addition to being a lab site for MCC's Early Childhood Education Program.

Student Wellness

Learn about on-campus, online, and off-campus mental health resources.

Financial Aid

MCC is committed to helping remove economic barriers that may deprive students of an education. Learn about paying for college at MCC.

Fitness Center

Learn about the Fitness Center.

Library

Use the library to borrow technology like laptops, calculators, and webcams, as well as to access books, online resources, and course materials on reserve. Learn more about the library.

See the dedicated a research guide for PTA students to easily find and use scholarly sources for Evidence-Based Practice.

Tutoring and Academic Support Center

Learn about the Tutoring and Academic Support Center (TASC), located in the Learning Commons in A212. The space provides tutoring, academic coaching, study groups, and academic support resources.

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Students with Disabilities

It is the policy and practice of McHenry County College to create inclusive learning environments. If you are a student with a disability that qualifies under the American with Disabilities Act – Amended (ADAA) and require accommodations, please contact the Access and Disability Services office for information on appropriate policies and procedures for receiving accommodations and support.

Disabilities covered by ADAA may include learning, psychiatric, and physical disabilities, or chronic health disorders. Students should contact the Access and Disability Services office if they are not certain whether a medical condition/disability qualifies.

To receive accommodations, students must make a formal request and must supply documentation from a qualified professional to support that request. However, you do not need to have your documentation in hand for our first meeting. Students who believe they qualify must contact the Access and Disability Services office to begin the accommodation process. All discussions remain confidential.

The Access and Disability Services office is located in Room A256. To schedule an appointment to speak with the manager, please call (815) 455-8766. See information about disability services at MCC.

Students in Career/Technical Programs

As a student enrolled in a career or technical education program at McHenry County College, you may be eligible for services and assistance under the Carl D. Perkins III Grant. Grant funds are used, in part, to assist students who are at risk of not succeeding in their educational pursuits. The traits that often prevent students from succeeding are: economic disadvantage, academic disadvantage, disability/disabilities, single parent, displaced homemaker, enrollment in a program in which their gender is under represented, and limited English proficiency (LEP). The definitions of each trait are available in the Access and Disability Services office.

Students with one or more of these traits are referred to as Perkins Special Populations Students. If you would like to know if you are eligible for services at any time during the semester, please contact the Manager, Access and Disability Services, Room A256, (815) 455-8766.

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The following is a list of essential functions that are necessary for a student to be able to complete while in the program on campus and in clinical education sites in order to complete the Associates degree of Applied Science in the Physical Therapist Assistant Program. Students who have concerns with performing the following tasks in their education, need to contact the Program Chair and notify the Department of Special Needs to determine if reasonable modifications under the Americans with Disabilities Act are available. Students need to remember the role of a PTA in the various settings and fields of practice to be an effective PTA after completion of the program.

There are several important factors for you to consider when you are determining your future career directions. To be successful in the PTA classroom, at a PTA clinical education site and in your job following graduation, you should be able to meet all of the following expectations:

General Essential Functions

1. Attend class approximately 12–24 contact hours a week or perform 40 hours a week of clinical education, depending on the stage of the program curriculum.
2. Complete all assignments on time.
3. Participate in classroom discussions.
4. Perform or instruct others in the following procedures (learned in class) in a timely manner: transfers, gait training, physical agents, activities of daily living, therapeutic exercises or activities, and data collection procedures.
5. Use sound judgment and safety precautions (exposure to blood-borne pathogens and/or infectious disease may occur as part of the educational experience). Students are trained in safety/infection control and are expected to follow these guidelines to avoid contracting or transmitting disease.
6. Meet class standards for successful course completion.
7. Use critical thinking when making decisions.
8. Follow standards stated in PTA Program Guideline and Procedure Manual and the PTA Program Clinical Education Handbook.
9. Address problems or questions to the appropriate person at the appropriate time.
10. Maintain classroom, work area, equipment, supplies, personal appearance and hygiene conducive to a professional setting as appropriate.
11. Behave in a competent, professional manner.

Physical Requirements

Physical requirements for the PTA Program include the need to occasionally, frequently, or continually:

1. Sit 2–5 hours per day with lecture blocks up to 3 hours.
2. Stand 1–6 hours with lab time blocks up to 6 hours.
3. Lift up to 60 pounds.
4. Push/pull up to 50 pounds of force exerted at waist level.
5. Squat or stoop.
6. Use auditory, tactile, and visual senses to assess physiological status of an individual.
7. Demonstrate good standing and unsupported sitting balance.
8. Demonstrate good finger dexterity.
9. Coordinate verbal and manual instructions.
10. Communicate effectively with a variety of people through written, verbal, and nonverbal methods.
11. Use hands repetitively.
12. Shift weight in sitting or standing.
13. Demonstrate the ability to use a firm grasp while using physical therapy equipment and while performing physical therapy interventions.
14. Reach above shoulder level.
15. Kneel, kneel-stand, and half kneel.
16. Use equipment that emits electrical, ultrasonic, and thermal energy.
17. Physically move and transfer patients.

Students who have concerns about the ability to perform any of these functions should contact the PTA Program Chair at (815) 479-7796. Individuals with disabilities may request reasonable accommodations or information by contacting MCC Access and Disability Services: Room A260; Phone: (815) 455-8766; TTY: (815) 455-7237; Video Phone: (815) 261-0098; Fax: (815) 479-7836.

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Zoom — Student Online Classroom Etiquette

• This is a virtual classroom; appropriate classroom behavior is expected.
• Log into your class or meeting from a distraction-free, quiet environment.
• Please keep your audio on mute until you want to speak. This will help to limit background noise.
• Consider using a headset with an external mic for best hearing and speaking capabilities.
• Close unneeded applications on your computer to optimize the video quality.
• If you would like to speak or answer a question, use the "Raise Hand" feature. Then unmute yourself after you are called on by your teacher.
• When you are speaking, let others know that you are finished by saying something like, "That's all," or "I'm done," or "Thank you," so that everyone knows you have finished your comments.
• If you would like to use the chatbox, remember that it is public, and a record of the chat is kept and archived.
• Keep paper and a pen or pencil handy to take notes.
• Make sure your video is on (if you have camera capabilities) so your teacher and peers can see you.
• Be mindful of your background lighting. If you are sitting with your back to a window, you may be silhouetted by the light coming through. Your overhead light might also need to be adjusted for the best image quality.
• Please take care of your personal needs (appropriate dress, basic hygiene, eating, chewing gum, talking to others in your home, etc.) prior to entering a Zoom classroom.
• Please do not use profanity or inappropriate language.
• Remember to sign out or "leave the meeting" when the session is finished.

Adapted from Anchorage School District.

APTA Code of Ethics and Standards of Ethical Conduct

The MCC Physical Therapist Assistant Program is committed to preparing students to provide ethical, professional, and patient-centered care. As future healthcare providers, PTA students must demonstrate integrity, respect, accountability, and a commitment to serving individuals from diverse backgrounds. To support the development of these professional responsibilities, students are expected to become familiar with and adhere to the ethical principles established by the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA).

The APTA's vision is "transforming society by optimizing movement to improve the human experience." Consistent with this vision, physical therapists and physical therapist assistants are expected to uphold the highest standards of ethical and professional conduct. Students should review the current APTA Code of Ethics for the Physical Therapist and Standards of Ethical Conduct for the Physical Therapist Assistant, available through the APTA website. These documents provide guidance for professional decision-making and behavior throughout a student's education and future clinical practice.

Professional Behaviors Assessment Tool

The Professional Behaviors Assessment Tool is used to assess student development on ten behaviors across three levels. Faculty assess each behavior once per semester; students also complete a self-assessment each semester.

Expected level targets by semester:

• End of Year 1, Spring: Beginning Level for all behaviors
• End of Year 1, Fall: At least 50% at Intermediate Level or higher
• End of Year 2, Summer: All at Intermediate Level
• End of Year 2, Fall: All at Entry Level

Directions: For each behavior, highlight criteria that describe behaviors you currently demonstrate at Beginning, Intermediate, or Entry Level. Provide at least one specific example of a behavior from the highest level highlighted. Share your self-assessment with your clinical instructor, seeking his/her feedback.

Specific example: 

Specific example: 

Specific example: 

Specific example: 

Specific example: 

Specific example: 

Specific example: 

Specific example: 

Specific example: 

Specific example: 

Based on my Professional Behaviors Assessment, I am setting the following goals: [the student's goals]

To accomplish these goals, I will take the following specific actions: [the student's specific actions]

• Student signature and date
• Faculty signature and date

Note: This is a print document. A physical copy is available from the PTA Program Office.

Essential Functions Verification

Upon entering the PTA Program, students will be required to acknowledge that they have read and understand the Essential Functions of the program and that they can meet the Physical Requirements of the program with or without reasonable accommodation. Students requesting accommodations will be provided with instructions for submitting accommodation requests through the College's established process.

Video Recording/Photograph Consent

Students entering the Physical Therapist Assistant Program will be required to acknowledge whether they consent to video recording, photography, and audio recording during classroom, laboratory, and off-campus educational experiences for educational purposes. Any consent granted will remain in effect throughout the student's enrollment in the McHenry County College PTA Program.

Bloodborne Pathogens Exposure Acknowledgement

Students enrolled in the Physical Therapist Assistant Program may participate in classroom, laboratory, and clinical experiences that involve potential exposure to human blood, body fluids, tissues, or other potentially infectious materials. These materials may carry bloodborne pathogens, including but not limited to Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV).

Students are expected to follow all applicable Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards, infection control procedures, and safety policies established by McHenry County College and affiliated clinical education sites. Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) must be used whenever indicated.

Students who experience an exposure incident involving blood, body fluids, tissues, cultures, or other potentially infectious materials are required to immediately notify their instructor and/or clinical supervisor and follow the established exposure response procedures of the College and clinical facility.

In the event of an exposure incident, emergency first aid or other immediate measures deemed appropriate may be provided until additional medical care can be obtained.

Prior to program entry, students will be required to acknowledge their understanding of the potential risks associated with participation in health care education experiences, their responsibility to follow all applicable safety requirements, and the procedures to be followed in the event of an exposure incident.

Waiver of Liability, Assumption of Risk, and Indemnity Agreement

Students enrolled in the Physical Therapist Assistant Program may participate in classroom, laboratory, clinical, and other educational activities that involve inherent risks. These risks may include, but are not limited to, physical injury, illness, exposure to infectious materials, property damage, and other risks associated with participation in health care education and clinical experiences.

Prior to participation in program activities, students will be required to review and sign a Waiver of Liability and Assumption of Risk Agreement. This agreement acknowledges that the student understands the inherent risks associated with participation in program activities, voluntarily assumes those risks, and agrees to the terms outlined in the waiver.

The agreement also includes provisions related to indemnification, hold harmless obligations, severability, and acknowledgment of understanding.

Health Screening

The required health screening must be completed and signed by a licensed physician, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner. The form includes documentation of required immunizations, tuberculosis screening, current medications, allergies, health history, and an assessment of the student's ability to meet the physical and cognitive requirements of the program with or without reasonable accommodation.

The health care provider will be asked to verify that the student is medically qualified to participate in classroom, laboratory, and clinical education activities. If accommodations are needed, the provider may identify relevant restrictions or recommendations. Students requesting accommodations will be provided information regarding the College's established accommodation process.

Students are also required to authorize the release of information necessary to verify compliance with clinical education requirements and health and safety standards established by McHenry County College and affiliated clinical education sites.

Completed health screening documentation must be submitted by the designated program deadline and maintained throughout enrollment as required by the program and clinical education partners.

A separate Health Screening and Medical Clearance Form will be provided by the PTA Program and must be completed prior to participation in clinical education experiences.

Student Handbook Agreement

Students enrolled in the Physical Therapist Assistant Program are responsible for reviewing and complying with all policies, procedures, requirements, and expectations outlined in the Physical Therapist Assistant Program Student Handbook.

Prior to program entry, students will be required to acknowledge that they have received access to the Student Handbook, have read and understand its contents, and agree to abide by the guidelines, procedures, standards, and expectations of the Physical Therapist Assistant Program throughout their enrollment.

The Physical Therapist Assistant Program reserves the right to revise handbook content, policies, procedures, requirements, and expectations as needed to maintain compliance with College, accreditation, regulatory, clinical education, and professional standards. Students are responsible for reviewing and complying with the most current version of the Student Handbook, and any program updates communicated during their enrollment.

Students who withdraw from or are dismissed from the program and are subsequently readmitted will be expected to comply with the policies, procedures, and requirements outlined in the handbook version in effect at the time of readmission.

Failure to comply with program policies, procedures, and standards may result in academic or disciplinary action as outlined in program and College policies. Students seeking an accommodation or wishing to request consideration of an exception to a program requirement should contact the Physical Therapist Assistant Program Chair and follow the College's established accommodation procedures.

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