Final answer:
Physical therapists in acute care facilities are usually paid a salary or an hourly wage, depending on their employment agreement and work schedule. Their level of education, expertise, and job performance can also impact their compensation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Physical therapists (PTs), who are highly trained in the mechanics of body movements and specialize in a range of areas including sports injuries, work in various settings including acute care facilities. In these facilities, PTs typically provide care for patients with acute injuries or post-operative recovery needs. The payment for physical therapists in such facilities can vary depending on several factors, such as the region they work in, their level of experience, and the type of employment contract they have.
Most PTs in acute care are paid a salary, which is a fixed amount of compensation received on a regular basis, often bi-weekly or monthly. Some may be paid on an hourly basis, particularly if they work part-time or per diem. Further influencing their pay can be the completion of a master's degree or doctorate in physical therapy, as well as any additional specialization, such as expertise in treating sports-related injuries. Their payment may also be influenced by the outcomes of their therapy, such as the improved range of motion and overall return to normal function of the injured limb.