DPT 509L - Foundations of Clinical Examination and Evaluation Laboratory

This course introduces the student to the physical therapy examination, evaluation, and collection of clinical data. The course focuses on introducing psychomotor performance and interpretation of examination procedures that are applicable to all practice settings and across the lifespan. Performing and interpreting systems review, and review of systems will be emphasized. Examination procedures include test and measures and outcome measures including assessment of general health status and functional capacity. The International Classification of Function (ICF) will be introduced as a data collection and clinical decision-making tool. Specific content and skills to be introduced include: observation, subjective interview and history taking, systems review, screening for risk, cardiovascular and pulmonary screening (vital signs), postural alignment, joint range of motion, motor function (strength, muscle tone, reflexes), cranial nerve, sensory integrity, anthropometrics (edema, atrophy, etc.), and pain. Concepts such as enhancing the therapist- patient therapeutic alliance will be reinforced along with skills in documentation of the patient encounter. Expectations for professional behavior and skills performance will be commensurate with course objectives. 4 hours of lab weekly.

Corequisites DPT 509

Credits: 0

Program Doctoral