6 Elements of patient/client management plan

Question 1

Evaluation

Answer 1

A dynamic process in which the physical therapist makes clinical judgments based on data gathered during the examination. This process also may identify possible problems that require consultation with or referral to another provider.

Question 2

Examinations

Answer 2

The process of obtaining a history, performing a systems review, and selecting and administering tests and measures to gather data about the patient/client. The initial examination is a comprehensive screening and specific testing process that leads to a diagnostic classification. The examination process also may identify possible problems that require consultation with or referral to another provider.

Question 3

Diagnosis

Answer 3

Both the process and the end result of evaluating examination data, which the physical therapist organizes into defined clusters, syndromes, or categories to help determine the prognosis (including the plan of care) and the most appropriate intervention strategies.

Question 4

Prognosis (including plan of care)

Answer 4

Determination of the level of optimal improvement that may be attained through intervention and the amount of time required to reach the level. The plan of care specifies the interventions to be used and their timing and frequency.

Question 5

Intervention

Answer 5

Purposeful and skilled interaction of the physical therapist with the patient/client and, if appropriate, with other individuals involved in care of the patient/client, using various physical therapy procedures and techniques to produce changes in patient/client status and to modify or redirect intervention. The decision to reexamine may be based on new clinical findings or on lack of client/patient progress. The process of reexamination also may identify the need for consultation with or referral to another provider.