Integrating Evidence-Based Practice into a Therapeutic Exercise Course: Real-Time Patient Experience

Abstract

Athletic training students need real-time patient experiences in order to transfer the knowledge and skills learned in the classroom into clinical practice. The objective is to present a description of an assignment that could be incorporated into a therapeutic exercise course giving the student an opportunity to evaluate a patient, design a program utilizing evidence-based practice (EBP), and work with the patient in a 1-on-1 capacity over a period of time to implement the program. Students may not always have the opportunity in the clinical education environment to develop a rehabilitation program for a patient based on their own evaluation of the patient and utilize EBP concepts in the development of a program. This assignment involves utilizing patient evaluation techniques, including the use of a patient-rated outcome measures instrument, as well as the use of clinician-based measures, to develop a rehabilitation program. The program must be anchored in sound evidence and patient needs, incorporating multiple facets (eg, range of motion exercises, strengthening exercises) within the limitations of the injury/condition. Students report increased confidence in their ability to design a rehabilitation program, as well as their ability to utilize EBP in the clinical setting. They also develop problem-solving skills and cultivate professional attributes (communication skills, interpersonal skills) through this activity. In conclusion, this assignment is 1 way to infuse EBP concepts into a classroom assignment that requires real-time patient care experience over a period of time.