Abstract
A 79-year-old patient with a left hip fracture, status post intramedullary nailing was seen for physical therapy for 6 visits over 3 days at an acute care hospital. Therapy was performed by a physical therapy student under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist.
The patient was evaluated at the initial encounter with the numeric pain rating scale, goniometry, handheld dynamometry, the modified Iowa level of assistance, the short physical performance battery and the patient specific functional scale. A plan of care was established to address pain, range of motion and strength impairments, as well as limitations in bed mobility, transfers and gait. The main goals for the patient were independent transfers and gait with a front wheel walker, improved hip range of motion and strength, and decreased pain. The main interventions used were functional training, including sit-to-stand transfer practice and early ambulation, and range of motion and strengthening exercises. The patient achieved the following goals: improved independence with transfers, decreased pain, and improved range of motion of the hip joint. The patient was discharged home with a referral to home health services.