Physical Therapistsʼ Perceptions of Physical Therapy in the Emergency Department

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to report the perceptions of physical therapists (PTs) associated with acute care toward practice in the emergency department (ED). A secondary purpose was to generate hypotheses about the relationships between these perceptions and factors such as education and level of training. Methods: PTs involved in acute care were provided an electronic survey regarding demographic information, knowledge of practice in the ED, and opinions on advanced skills such as imaging, lab tests and pharmacology. Univariate logistic regression analyses were performed using a dichotomized version of three questions pertaining to value, confidence and feasibility of PT in the ED. Results: 120 subjects completed the survey. A majority believed that PTs were a valuable asset to the ED (92%) and integrating PTs into the ED is feasible (67.5%). Eighty-four percent were confident in managing patients in the ED. Significant correlations (p<0.01) existed between these perceptions and the therapists' level of education, clinical experience, continuing review of literature and training in the areas of differential diagnosis, diagnostic imaging, lab values and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Conclusion: Positive perceptions exist among PTs regarding practice in the ED. Factors related to these perceptions are stated in the results.