District of Columbia Physical Therapy Jurisprudence Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT a task that a physical therapy aide can perform?

1. Transfer activities

2. Cold/hot pack application

3. Performing evaluations

4. Hydrotherapy

The correct answer is: Performing evaluations

A physical therapy aide plays a supportive role in the rehabilitation environment, assisting physical therapists in the delivery of care. The tasks typically assigned to a physical therapy aide include preparing treatment areas, assisting patients with transfer activities, applying cold or hot packs, and supporting patient participation in prescribed therapeutic exercises. Performing evaluations, however, falls under the scope of practice for licensed physical therapists. Evaluations require a comprehensive understanding of patient assessment, diagnosis, and planning for treatment, which are responsibilities that a physical therapy aide is not authorized to undertake. This distinction is crucial for maintaining the standards of care and ensuring patient safety in the physical therapy setting.