Florida Physical Therapy Jurisprudence Practice Exam

If a patient experiences new onset radiating pain during treatment, what action should the physical therapist assistant take?

1. Perform a straight leg raise to determine neural mobility

2. End the treatment and apply a hot pack

3. Instruct the patient to go to urgent care

4. Contact the physical therapist

The correct answer is: Contact the physical therapist

When a patient experiences new onset radiating pain during treatment, it is crucial for the physical therapist assistant to prioritize patient safety and clinical judgment. Contacting the physical therapist is the appropriate action in this scenario because it ensures that a licensed professional evaluates the patient's symptoms within the context of the overall treatment plan and medical history. Radiating pain can be indicative of various underlying issues, such as nerve root irritation or other conditions that may require further assessment or modification of the intervention. The physical therapist can provide guidance on the next steps, such as reassessing the patient's condition, adjusting the treatment plan, or determining if further medical evaluation is necessary. This collaborative approach aligns with the practice standards and ensures the patient's safety and well-being. The other actions, although potentially beneficial in different contexts, do not provide the immediate oversight needed in this situation. For example, performing a straight leg raise may not be appropriate without guiding parameters from the supervising physical therapist, and applying a hot pack may not address the underlying problem causing the new symptoms. Additionally, instructing the patient to go to urgent care may not be necessary at that moment, especially if the physical therapist is available to provide proper assessment and guidance.