| Core
Performance Standards for
Admission to the Physician Assistant Program and Completion
of the Master of Health Science Degree
General
Abilities
The student is expected to possess functional use
of the senses of vision, touch, hearing, taste,
and smell. All data received by the senses
must be integrated, analyzed and synthesized in
a
consistent and accurate manner. In addition,
the individual
is expected to possess the ability to perceive
pain, pressure, temperature, position, equilibrium,
and movement. Observational Ability
The student is expected to participate in and observe
demonstrations and experiments in the basic sciences.
Communication Ability
The student is expected to be able to effectively
communicate verbally and non-verbally and to
observe patients in order to elicit information,
describe
changes in mood, activity, and postures and
to perceive nonverbal communications. This requires
the ability
to read, write, and effectively utilize the
English
language. The student must be able to communicate
effectively and sensitively with patients and
other professionals.
Motor Ability
The student is expected to be able to perform
gross and fine motor movements required to
perform a complete
physical examination. The student is expected
to have the psychomotor skills necessary
to perform or assist with procedures, treatments,
administration
of medication, managing of equipment, and
emergency
interventions. The student is expected to
be able
to maintain consciousness and equilibrium,
and have the physical strength and stamina
to perform
satisfactorily
in clinical experiences. The student should
have sufficient motor function to elicit
information from patients by palpation, auscultation,
percussion
and
other diagnostic maneuvers. The student must
be able to do laboratory tests and work with
scientific and
other instruments and machinery utilized
in practice
as a Physician Assistant.
Critical Thinking Ability
The student is expected to have the ability
to develop and refine problem-solving skills.
This
includes
the ability to measure, calculate, analyze
and synthesize objective as well as subjective
data
and make decisions
that reflect consistent and thoughtful
deliberation and clinical judgment. In addition,
the student
should be able to comprehend three-dimensional
relationships
and understand the spatial relationships
of structures.
Interpersonal Abilities
The student is expected to have the emotional
stability required to exercise sound
judgment, complete assessment
and intervention activities. The student
is expected to establish rapport and
maintain sensitive,
interpersonal relationships with individuals,
families and groups
from a variety of social, emotional,
cultural and intellectual backgrounds. The student
is
expected
to have the flexibility to function effectively
under stress. Concern for others, integrity,
accountability,
interest and motivation are necessary
personal
qualities.
Behavioral and Social Attributes
A student must possess the emotional
health required for full utilization
of his or
her intellectual
abilities, the exercise of good judgment,
the prompt completion
of all responsibilities attendant to
the diagnosis and care of patients,
and the
development of
mature, sensitive and effective relationships
with patients.
The student must be able to tolerate
physically taxing workloads and to
function effectively
under stress.
The student must be able to adapt to
changing environments, to display flexibility
and
to learn to function in
the face of uncertainties inherent
in the clinical problems of many patients.
Compassion,
integrity,
concern for others, interpersonal skills,
interest and motivation are all personal
qualities that
will be assessed during the admissions
and education process.
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