PTBC (Physical Therapy Board of California) California Law Practice Exam

What must a PTA do before treating a patient?

1. Sign a consent form

2. Notify the PT of record

3. Undergo an examination

4. Document the plan of care communicated verbally/in writing

The correct answer is: Document the plan of care communicated verbally/in writing

Before treating a patient, a PTA must document the plan of care that has been communicated either verbally or in writing. Option A, signing a consent form, does not require documentation of the plan of care and may not always be necessary for treatment. Option B, notifying the PT of record, is not a necessary requirement before treating a patient and may not always be feasible, especially in urgent situations. Option C, undergoing an examination, is not a requirement for a PTA before treating a patient as they should already be familiar with the patient's condition and treatment plan. Therefore, documenting the plan of care is the most essential step that a PTA must take before treating a patient.