PT 121 - Observation and Measurement Procedures

1. Identify and access relevant literature related to outcomes to understand outcomes measurement.
2. Offer suggestion to the physical therapist based upon the PTA’s observations of patient status and performance.
3. Demonstrate proper techniques used in gross muscle and range of motion testing.
4. Demonstrate proper techniques during palpation, goniometry and muscle length testing.
5. Communicate observations and selected data to the physical therapist, family, patients and other health care providers and professionals.
6. Discuss the impact of reimbursement policies on outcomes and objectivity on patient recommendations and reports.
7. Demonstrate proper orthopedic measurement techniques including, but not limited to, gross observation, examination of contractile issues, pain, resistance, end feels, capsular patterns, ligament testing and joint play.
8. Demonstrate proper techniques during assessment of normal and abnormal posture including those of the head, neck, trunk and upper and lower extremities.
9. Demonstrate proper technique during assessment for sensory abilities, girth measurements, righting reactions, volumetric measurements, balance, equilibrium and functional activities measurements and assessments.
10. Demonstrate proper recording and documentation methods, including the ability to review documentation for absence or presence of established criteria to record compliance of documentation.
11. Demonstrate how specific techniques may be modified to accommodate age related or pathology related problems.