Abstract
An 82 year-old female patient post right total knee arthroplasty was seen for physical therapy treatment within the acute care setting for 5 sessions over a period of 2.5 days, starting the day of surgery. Treatments were provided by a student physical therapist under the direct supervision of a licensed physical therapist. The patient was evaluated at the initial assessment with numeric pain rating scale,
goniometry, manual muscle testing, Well’s Criteria for deep vein thrombosis, level of assist for functional mobility, and the Boston University’s Activity Measure for Post-Acute Care Inpatient Short Form. Based on the exam data, a plan of care was established to address deficits in pain, range of motion, and functional mobility. Main goals for the patient were to reduce right knee pain, to gain independence with ambulation and functional mobility, to gain ability to ascend/descend stairs, and to return home. Interventions included task-specific training and followed the precautions and home exercise program set by the surgeon. The patient achieved the following goals: improved functional mobility, increased range of motion and strength in right lower extremity, and desired discharge location. The patient was discharged home with the full-time assistance of her daughter and a referral for Home Health Physical Therapy.