Before a PT aide can perform patient-related tasks, what must the supervising PT do?

The requirement for a supervising physical therapist (PT) to evaluate every patient before a PT aide can perform patient-related tasks is rooted in the need for safety and appropriate care. By evaluating each patient, the PT is able to determine the specific needs and conditions of the patient, which informs what tasks the aide can appropriately assist with. This assessment ensures that the aide operates within the scope of practice and adheres to established treatment plans.

The physical therapist's comprehensive evaluation includes understanding the patient's diagnosis, current progress, and specific treatments required. It lays the groundwork for the aide's involvement in the patient's care, ensuring that all interventions align with the overall therapeutic goals and that the patient's safety is prioritized.

Although training the aide on specific tasks is crucial for their successful assistance, without a thorough evaluation of the patient, the risk of inappropriate task assignment increases. Thus, the evaluation not only supports safe and effective care delivery but also fulfills regulations and best practices in physical therapy settings.