1.1 physical therapist role/responsibility

Question 1

what is the process of physical therapist patient and client management?

Answer 1

examination –> evaluation –> daignosis and prognosis (or referral/consultation) –> intervention –> outcomes

Question 2

what is the point of a differential diagnosis?

Answer 2

to identify possible problems that require consultation with or referral to another provider

Question 3

what is another thing physical therapists can do to assist in identifying possible problems that require consultation with or referral to another provider?

Answer 3

a systems review

Question 4

what is the standards of practice for physical therapist and the criteria for a differential diagnosis?

Answer 4

the physical therapist examination may result in recommendations for additional services to meet the needs of the patient or client

Question 5

what is the guide for professional conduct for a differential diagnosis?

Answer 5

if the diagnostic process reveals findings that are outside the scope of the physical therapist’s knowledge, experience, or expertise, the physical therapist shall so inform the patient/client and refer to an appropriate practitioner

Question 6

what was the study design in “clinical factors leading to physical therapists referring patients to physicians: a systemic review”?

Answer 6

how patients accessed PT?, timing of referral?, relevant red flags?, resultant medical diagnosis?, PTs role in patient referral for medical tests?

Question 7

what was the result in “clinical factors leading to physical therapists referring patients to physicians: a systemic review”?

Answer 7

75% of patients had been referred to PT by physician and 25% accessed PT via direct access

Question 8

what were the chief complaints in “clinical factors leading to physical therapists referring patients to physicians: a systemic review”?

Answer 8

pain (n=60)
weakness (n=4)
tingling/numbness (n=2)
combination (n=12)