Documentation, Ethics & Standards Flashcards
What does SOAP stand for in SOAP documentation?
S = Subjective data, O = Objective data, A = Assessment, P = Plan
What type of data is documented under ‘S’ in SOAP documentation?
Subjective data
Includes patient experiences, feelings, duration, intensity, and past history.
What is included in the ‘O’ section of SOAP documentation?
Objective data
Includes interventions, physical exam results, and vital signs.
What is assessed in the ‘A’ section of SOAP documentation?
Assessment
Includes diagnosis, problem identification, and treatment tolerance.
What is documented in the ‘P’ section of SOAP documentation?
Plan
Includes follow-up, further testing, and treatment goals.
What does DAR stand for in DAR documentation?
D = Data, A = Action, R = Response
What is included in the ‘D’ section of DAR documentation?
Data
Comprised of subjective and objective information related to a problem.
What types of data can be included as subjective data in DAR documentation?
Examples include direct patient quotes like ‘I can’t breathe’ or ‘I’m scared’
What does the ‘A’ in DAR documentation refer to?
Action
Refers to past, present, or future actions based on patient assessment.
What is described in the ‘R’ section of DAR documentation?
Response
Describes patient progress and response to therapy.
What is the primary role of physiotherapists as experts?
To promote, improve, and maintain mobility, health, and well-being
What does the physiotherapist role of ‘Communicator’ involve?
Using effective communication to develop professional relationships
What is the responsibility of physiotherapists as ‘Managers’?
To manage time, resources, and priorities for sustainable practice
What is required for the maintenance of clinical records?
An accurate, legible, permanent, and confidential record must be maintained
What must be included in a clinical record regarding patient consent?
All consents given by a patient or their legal representative
What must be documented regarding changes in patient status?
Any change in patient status and/or treatment provided must be documented
What is the minimum retention period for clinical records?
16 years from the date of the last entry
How must clinical records be destroyed to maintain confidentiality?
By effective shredding, burning, or computer/video erasure
What is the definition of electrophysical agents?
Electrical, electromagnetic, thermal, light, or sound energies used therapeutically
What must all electrophysical agents have according to regulations?
A medical device license issued by Health Canada
What is required before using new electrophysical equipment?
Calibration must be performed according to manufacturers’ specifications
What must be verified before applying an electrophysical agent?
There must be no contraindications to the proposed application
What must be documented after applying an electrophysical agent?
Modality, dosage, specific area treated, and response to treatment
What is the role of a PT support worker?
To assist in the provision of physiotherapy services under a physiotherapist’s direction