How many areas must a physical therapist evaluate during patient assessments?

In the context of patient assessments, physical therapists are required to evaluate four key areas to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the patient's condition and to guide appropriate treatment planning. These four areas typically include the patient’s medical history, physical examination findings, functional abilities, and psychosocial factors.

Evaluating these domains is essential for developing an individualized treatment plan that addresses not only the physical impairments but also considers the patient's overall health, lifestyle, and emotional well-being. This holistic approach is in line with the professional standards guiding physical therapy practices, which emphasize the importance of thorough assessments to inform effective care.

By focusing on four distinct areas, physical therapists can identify specific issues that may impact the patient's recovery and help to set measurable goals. Thus, the correct answer reflects the comprehensive nature of assessments that are essential for high-quality physical therapy practice.