Final answer:
PCTs must follow protocol when they observe injuries that may indicate abuse, including documenting and reporting to the appropriate authorities. In physical therapy, heat, exercise, and icing are steps along with the use of diagnostic imaging for treatment. Wound monitoring is also essential for identifying infections.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question concerns a Patient Care Technician (PCT) who is assisting in the care of a young child with bruises. The presence of bruises at different stages of healing can be an indication of non-accidental injury, and healthcare professionals have a duty to ensure the safety of the children under their care. When a child presents with such injuries, the PCT should follow protocol which often includes documenting the findings, providing care as needed, and reporting the findings to a registered nurse or the appropriate supervisor, who can then follow institutional policies for reporting to protective services if abuse is suspected. It is critical to ensure child safety and to take potential signs of abuse seriously.
Concerning physical therapy, the provided information outlines steps for an appropriate physical therapy plan for a different scenario: Applying a heat pack to an injury as a warm-up, performing therapeutic exercises, and icing to reduce inflammation. These measures, alongside the use of diagnostic tools like MRI or CT scans, are part of comprehensive patient care that the PCT may be involved in under the supervision of a physical therapist. For the 3-year-old child, any therapy or treatment must be guided by a careful evaluation of the injuries and the circumstances around them.
In addition, Cindy's case in Clinical Focus demonstrates the importance of monitoring wounds for signs of infection, which can present as pain, swelling, and changes in appearance.