Role of the physiotherapy AP in postoperative cardiothoracic care

Abstract

This article will outline the role of the physiotherapy assistant practitioner (AP) in respiratory care, specifically treating patients following cardiothoracic surgery. It is an innovative new role for both the Papworth Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and the physiotherapy profession, with few pre-existing posts in this field. The role is relevant to other disciplines, as the key features can be transferred into nursing and other therapies. This article will provide a greater understanding of the scope the AP role can fulfil.