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

When is a PT aide considered competent in performing patient-related tasks?

1. After a brief orientation

2. Once the PT evaluates and records the aide's competency level

3. After completing a certification course

4. Only if they have previous experience in another facility

The correct answer is: Once the PT evaluates and records the aide's competency level

A After a brief orientation is incorrect because a brief orientation may not provide adequate training and evaluation for an aide to be considered competent in performing patient-related tasks. According to the American Physical Therapy Association, aides should undergo a thorough evaluation of their knowledge and skills by the supervising physical therapist before being deemed competent. C: After completing a certification course is incorrect because while completing a certification course may provide valuable knowledge, it does not guarantee competence in performing patient-related tasks. The PT must still evaluate and record the aide's competency level. D: Only if they have previous experience in another facility is incorrect because previous experience may not be reflective of the specific skills and tasks required at the current facility. A thorough evaluation by the PT is still necessary to determine competency in patient-related tasks.