Question

Which of the following interventions would NOT be appropriate to delegate to a physical therapist assistant?

1) Administering medication
2) Assisting with therapeutic exercises
3) Providing education on home exercise programs
4) Performing manual therapy techniques

Answer 1

The inappropriate intervention to delegate to a physical therapist assistant is administering medication, as it is beyond their scope of practice. Physical therapists must understand physics for muscle function assessment and treatment design.

Step-by-step explanation:

The intervention that would NOT be appropriate to delegate to a physical therapist assistant (PTA) is administering medication. Physical therapist assistants are trained to assist with therapeutic exercises, provide education on home exercise programs, and performing manual therapy techniques under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist (PT). However, the administration of medication falls outside of the scope of practice for PTAs as it requires additional certifications and is generally the responsibility of a nurse or physician.

Physical therapists do require knowledge of physics to accurately assess and treat patients. Understanding the mechanics of muscle contraction and release of energy are key components in designing a program to enhance a patient's physical capabilities and improve overall functioning. Additionally, knowledge of physics helps PTs in determining the proper use and instruction of equipment like crutches, assessing patients' endurance, strength, and balance.