California PTA Laws Practice Exam

What is required of a physical therapist when an aide provides direct patient-related tasks?

1. The PT must directly supervise the aide

2. The PT must perform direct care with the patient on the same day

3. The PT must evaluate the aide weekly

4. The PT must document the helper's performance in detail

The correct answer is: The PT must perform direct care with the patient on the same day

The most appropriate requirement for a physical therapist when an aide provides direct patient-related tasks is that the PT must directly supervise the aide. This is crucial because direct supervision ensures that the aide's actions are aligned with the treatment plan established by the physical therapist, maintaining the safety and quality of care for the patient. In the context of patient care, direct supervision means that the physical therapist is responsible for overseeing the aide's work, providing guidance, and being available to offer assistance if necessary. This is essential, as the physical therapist ultimately holds accountability for the patient's treatment outcomes. The requirement that the PT must perform direct care with the patient on the same day is not standard practice and does not emphasize the supervisory role of the physical therapist over the aide. Instead, the focus is on ensuring that the aide operates under the PT's guidance rather than requiring the PT's direct involvement in care for every session involving an aide. While regular evaluations and documentation can be part of good practice, they are not specific requirements tied to the supervision of an aide's direct patient-related tasks. The key component in this scenario is the supervisory role that ensures proper care delivery and adherence to treatment protocols.