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

Which of the following is NOT listed as an authorized topical medication that can be applied by a physical therapist?

1. Bacteriocidal agents

2. Antifungal agents

3. Topical anesthetic agents

4. Adrenocortico-steroids

The correct answer is: Antifungal agents

Topical antifungal agents are not listed as an authorized topical medication that can be applied by a physical therapist. This is because these agents are typically used to treat fungal infections of the skin, hair, and nails, which would be better managed by a primary care physician or dermatologist. Physical therapists are trained to apply medications that are directly related to their scope of practice, such as bacteriocidal agents to prevent or treat infection, topical anesthetic agents for pain relief, and adrenocortico-steroids for inflammation reduction. Including topical antifungal agents as an authorized medication for physical therapists to apply would go beyond their expertise and may result in ineffective or improper treatment.