essential skills - physiotherapists

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    NOC 3142

    Tasks Complexity Level Examples

    Typical

    Most Complex

    1 to 4

    4

    Physiotherapists

    read short instructions on equipment labels.For example, they may read operatinginstructions on the labels of ultrasound andelectrotherapy equipment. (1)

    read text entries in forms. For example, theymay read descriptions of accidents involving

    Home > Skills > Literacy-Essential Skills > Search the profiles > Profiles > All Profiles > Profiles Description

    Physiotherapists

    IntroductionPhysiotherapists assess patients and plan and carry out individually designed treatmentprograms to maintain, improve or restore physical functioning, alleviate pain and preventphysical dysfunction in patients. Physiotherapists are employed in hospitals, clinics,industry, sports organizations, rehabilitation centres and extended care facilities, or theymay work in private practice.

    The most important Essential Skills for Physiotherapists are:

    Document Use

    Oral CommunicationCritical Thinking

    Document Sections

    Reading TextDocument UseWritingNumeracyOral CommunicationThinking Skills

    Problem SolvingDecision MakingCritical ThinkingJob Task Planning and OrganizingSignificant Use of MemoryFinding Information

    Working with OthersComputer UseContinuous LearningNotes

    A. Reading Text

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    patients in insurance claim forms. They mayalso read patients' comments about patients'health concerns in intake forms. (2)

    read e-mail messages from co-workers andletters from colleagues. For example, they mayread about meeting arrangements and schedulechanges in e-mail messages from co-workers.They may also read letters from referringdoctors who describe patients' injuries and

    from workers' compensation board officialswho confirm support for the payment oftreatments. (2)

    read trade magazines, brochures andprofessional associations' newsletters to stayabreast of technological advances, legislativechanges and other matters affecting theirpractices. For example, a physiotherapist mayread Physio-Qubec to learn about newsoftware to prepare personalized exerciseprograms for patients and to find informationon an upcoming conference on risk

    management in physiotherapy. (3)

    read textbooks and academic journals toexpand their knowledge of physical functions,dysfunctions and disorders of the musculo-skeletal, nervous, cardiovascular andcardiopulmonary systems. They may also read

    journals to learn about the results of researchin neurology, oncology, rheumatology,orthopedics, obstetrics, pediatrics, geriatricsand other physiotherapy practice areas. Forexample, they may read the Introduction toProblem Solving in Biomechanics to deepentheir understanding of the mathematics and

    physics involved in knee movements, weightloads and joint sharing. They may read anarticle in the Archives of Internal Medicineabout German trials showing the effectivenessof acupuncture techniques in the treatment ofback pain. They may also read an arthritisresearchers' study published in PhysiotherapyCanada about access barriers to physiotherapyservices. (4)

    Reading Summary

    The symbol is explained in the Use of Symbols section.

    Type of Text

    Purpose for Reading

    To scan for specific

    information/To

    locate information

    To skim for overall

    meaning, to get the

    'gist'

    To read the full text

    to understand or to

    learn

    To read the full text

    to critique or to

    evaluate

    Forms

    Labels

    Notes, Letters,

    Memos

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    Tasks Complexity Level Examples

    Typical

    Most Complex

    1 to 3

    3

    Physiotherapists

    locate data on product and equipment labels.For example, they may scan labels onelectrotherapy, hydrotherapy and otherequipment for manufacturers' names and modelnumbers. They may scan labels on patients'medications for drug names, dosages andrenewal dates. (1)locate data in lists, tables and schedules. Forexample, they may scan bibliographies at the

    end of journal articles to identify other articlesrelevant to their practice areas. They may scantheir daily schedules to locate the times andlocations of their appointments with patients.They may also skim calendars prepared byprofessional societies, universities, hospitalsand other organizations to locate the dates,costs and locations of conferences, seminars,symposia, workshops and courses they wish toattend. (2)enter data into tables and schedules. Forexample, physiotherapists in hospitals,rehabilitation centres, nursing homes and

    residential care facil ities may enter patients'names, appointment times, activity codes anddates into time log tables. They may also entertheir assessments of patients' abilities to standunsupported, sit unsupported, reach forward,turn around and perform other movements intoBerg Balance Scale tables and other test scoresheets. (2)locate data in treatment referral, patient intakeand consent to treatment forms, physiotherapyclaims, medical histories, permissions torelease health information and other entryforms. For example, a physiotherapist mayreview an intake form completed by a patientto verify access to insurance and locate thenames of the employer, insurance companyprovider and insured person. (2)locate data in graphs. For example, they maylocate data in graphs that show maximumtorque produced at various knee angles. (2)complete entry forms such as insurance claims,treatment extension requests, mobility, spinaland other physiotherapy assessments,discharge reports, purchase orders, invoicesand receipts. They may have to combine datafrom several sources to complete such forms.

    Manuals,

    Specifications,

    Regulations

    Reports, Books,

    Journals

    B. Document Use

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    For example, a physiotherapist in arehabilitation centre may complete aphysiotherapy assessment form to documentthe outcomes of a patient's initial evaluation.The physiotherapist may enter the patient'sname, address, age, social and mental statusand the names of occupational therapists,social workers and nurses concurrently helpingthe patient. (3)locate data in radiographs, diagnostic images,sketches and pictures. For example, aphysiotherapist may scan a patient'sradiographs to locate pins in a bone thatrestrict mobili ty. The physiotherapist may alsoscan a surgeon's sketch to identify the locationof a surgical procedure performed on apatient's knee. (3)

    The symbol is explained in the Use of Symbols section.

    Read signs, labels or lists.

    Complete forms by marking check boxes, recording numerical information or enteringwords, phrases, sentences or text of a paragraph or more. The list of specific tasks variesdepending on what was reported.

    Read completed forms containing check boxes, numerical entries, phrases, addresses,sentences or text of a paragraph or more. The list of specific tasks varies depending on

    what was reported.

    Read tables, schedules or other table-like text (e.g., read work shift schedules).

    Create tables, schedules or other table-like text.

    Enter information on tables, schedules or other table-like text.

    Obtain specific information from graphs or charts.

    Interpret information on graphs or charts.

    Recognize common angles such as 15, 30, 45 and 90 degrees.

    Draw, sketch or form common shapes such as circles, triangles, spheres, rectangles,squares, etc.

    Make sketches.

    Obtain information from sketches, pictures or icons (e.g., computer toolbars).

    Interpret X-rays.

    Examples

    create tables and schedules. Forexample, physiotherapists inprivate practices may create dailyschedules into which theirsecretaries enter appointmenttimes, locations and patients'names. They may also create tablesto record amounts of time spent

    with patients.create sketches to facilitatepatients' understanding ofdiagnoses and treatments. Forexample, a physiotherapist maycreate a sketch of a patient's kneeto indicate the site of an injury. Thephysiotherapist may also sketch

    stick figures in different positions to show how exercises are performed.

    Document Use Summary

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    Tasks Complexity Level Examples

    Typical

    Most Complex

    1 to 3

    4 to 5

    Physiotherapists

    write notes to record details of diagnoses andtreatments. For example, they write notes inpatients' files to record information about

    prescribed exercises, treatment procedures andresponses to treatments. (1)write detailed text entries in forms. Forexample, a physiotherapist in a rehabilitationcentre may write a lengthy description of apatient's joint stability, leg length discrepancy,posture and gait in a physical examinationform. (2)write e-mail and letters to co-workers andcolleagues. For example, they may write e-mailmessages to co-workers to share informationon new treatment approaches. They may writeletters to referring doctors to outline theprogress made by patients. They may alsowrite letters to lawyers to offer opinions onpatients' injuries and the extent to which theycan carry out regular work activities. (2)write treatment and rehabilitation plans forpatients suffering from dysfunctions anddisorders of the musculo-skeletal, nervous,cardiovascular and cardiopulmonary systems.In these plans, they provide physiotherapyassessments of patients' conditions, identifygoals to be reached by patients and defineoutcome measurement methods. They alsodescribe detailed programs which may includetherapeutic exercises, massages,

    manipulations, mobilizations, electro-therapy,hydro-therapy, acupuncture and othertreatments. (3)may write the text for newspapers, newsletters,leaflets, brochures and Internet sites topromote preventive health care andphysiotherapy services. They must address keyquestions about the prevention and treatmentof physical dysfunctions and disorders in aneffective manner. They may have to gather,select and rewrite information from varioussources for a mixed audience of patients,caregivers, health care professionals and

    representatives from community organizations.For example, a physiotherapist may writeleaflets to warn mothers about jumpers,rollators and other equipment which may bedetrimental to babies' physical development. Aphysiotherapy supervisor may write anewsletter article about the role of thephysiotherapist as part of the preventativemedical team. (4)may write articles for trade publications,academic journals and conference proceedings.For example, a physiotherapist may write anarticle about the development of an evaluation

    C. Writing

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    grid for seniors' walking safety. Thephysiotherapist summarizes research protocols,outlines difficulties encountered in collectingdata, discusses principles used to analyse datacollected, presents results obtained andexplains their significance. (5)

    Writing Summary

    Task Complexity Level

    Physiotherapists

    calculate and verify travel reimbursement amounts.For example, physiotherapists covering sportingevents calculate reimbursements for use of personalvehicles at per kilometre rates and add amounts foraccommodation, meals and other expenses. (Money

    Math), (2)calculate and verify purchase order and invoiceamounts. For example, physiotherapists in privatephysiotherapy clinics and rehabilitation centres maycalculate amounts to be invoiced to patients,workers' compensation boards and insurancecompanies. They may also calculate amounts forgym balls, weights and other clinic supplies,determine discounts and surcharges and add federaland provincial sales taxes. (Money Math), (3)may set their own appointment schedules. Forexample, physiotherapists in hospitals set theirdaily schedules so that they can meet patients at

    Money Math

    2 to 3

    Scheduling,

    Budgeting &

    Accounting Math

    2 to 4

    Measurement and

    Calculation Math

    1 to 3

    Data Analysis

    Math

    3 to 4

    Numerical

    1 to 2

    The symbol is explained in the Use of Symbols section.

    Length

    Purpose for Writing

    To

    organize/to

    remember

    To keep a

    record/to

    document

    To

    inform/to

    request

    information

    To

    persuade/to

    justify a

    request

    To present

    an analysis

    or

    comparison

    To

    present

    an

    evaluation

    or critique

    To

    entertain

    Text

    requiring

    less than

    one

    paragraph

    of new

    text

    Text

    rarely

    requiring

    more than

    one

    paragraph

    Longer

    text

    D. Numeracy

    The symbol is explained in the Use of Symbols section.

    Examples

    Math Skills

    Summary

    a.

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    particular times. They need to adjust theirschedules when some appointments take longerthan expected. (Scheduling, Budgeting &Accounting Math), (2)may set work schedules for co-workers.Physiotherapists with supervisory responsibilitiesmay set work schedules for co-workers, taking intoaccount workload indicators and the need todistribute job tasks equitably. They may have toadjust work schedules because of vacations andsick leave. For example, a physiotherapist maycreate work schedules for a private sports clinicemploying six other physiotherapists, twoosteopaths, two massage therapists, anacupuncturist, a secretary, a receptionist and anoffice administrator. (Scheduling, Budgeting &Accounting Math), (3)may prepare and monitor operational budgets forphysiotherapy offices and clinics. For example,physiotherapists in private practices have to ensurethat expenditures incurred for salaries, rents, clinicand office supplies, utilities, and other expenses arefully covered by budgets. They may have to change

    budget line items because of unexpected events.(Scheduling, Budgeting & Accounting Math), (3)may calculate amounts for payroll, utility and taxaccounts. For example, physiotherapists in privateclinics may calculate payroll amounts for otherhealth professionals, receptionists, secretaries andoffice administrators. They multiply hours workedby hourly wage rates, calculate deductions forfederal and provincial income taxes andcontributions to pension plans and employmentinsurance. They may have to use different hourlywage rates for overtime and work on statutoryholidays. (Scheduling, Budgeting & Accounting

    Math), (4)may prepare and verify financial statements. Forexample, physiotherapists in private practices mayprepare and verify monthly balance sheets, incomeand expense statements and statements of cashflows. (Scheduling, Budgeting & Accounting Math),(4)measure sizes and distances using commonmeasuring tools. For example, a physiotherapist ina rehabili tation centre may use a tape to measurelength discrepancy and swelling in a patient's leg.The therapist may also use a wheel to measure thedistance walked by a patient and a stopwatch tomeasure walking time. (Measurement andCalculation Math), (1)calculate durations, numbers of repetitions, loadsand other specifications for exercise and therapyprograms. For example, a physiotherapist in asports clinic may calculate the resistance needed foran exercise and the number of repetitions at thatweight to make an exercise effective for a patient.The therapist may also determine the duration of anexercise set using a ratio of exercise time to restingtime. (Measurement and Calculation Math), (2)take precise measurements using specialized tools.For example, they may use hand dynamometers,

    Estimation

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    heart rate monitors, saturometers and goniometersto measure grip strengths, heart rates, oxygensaturations and joint ranges of motion respectively.(Measurement and Calculation Math), (3)measure patients' physical abilities and risks usingassessment instruments. For example, aphysiotherapist may measure a senior's risk offalling using tools such as the Functional ReachTest, the Berg Balance Scale, the Timed Up and GoTest, the Dynamic Gait Index and the TinettiBalance and Mobility Assessment. To obtainassessment results, the physiotherapist needs toperform several calculation steps. (Measurementand Calculation Math), (3)may manage small inventories of clinic supplies.They establish desirable inventory levels andcalculate turnover rates. They count inventories andcalculate quantities needed to bring inventories todesirable levels. For example, self-employedphysiotherapists may manage inventories of tapes,exercise bands, musculo-skeletal supports, braces,gym balls, weights and other supplies. (DataAnalysis Math), (3)

    collect and analyse physical examination data andtest results to assess patients' health, identifytreatment options and monitor progress. Forexample, a physiotherapist working in the surgicalrespiratory unit of a hospital may collect andanalyse measurements of a patient's pressuresupport, positive end-expiratory pressure, centralvenous pressure, arterial pressure and heart rate toassess overall health, develop a treatment plan andmonitor progress. (Data Analysis Math), (3)may collect, analyse and interpret physiotherapyresearch data. For example, a researchphysiotherapist may collect, analyse and interpret

    data to assess the effects of a physically-demandingenvironment on locomotion abilities after headtraumas. (Data Analysis Math), (4)estimate times needed to perform job duties, usingpast experience as a guide. For example, aphysiotherapist may estimate the time required foran appointment with a patient by assessing thenature and complexity of treatment procedures tobe performed. (Numerical Estimation), (1)estimate times needed by patients to achievedesired treatment outcomes. For example, aphysiotherapist in a sports clinic may estimate thetime required for an athlete to recover from aninjury and return to competition. The therapistconsiders the severity of the injury and the athlete'shealth history and response to treatment.(Numerical Estimation), (2)

    Number Concepts

    Whole Numbers Read and write, count, round off, add or subtract,multiply or divide whole numbers.

    Mathematical Foundations Used

    The symbol is explained in the Use of Symbols section.

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    For example, reading and writing test scores; usingrating scales; counting patients' visits; calculatinginventories of clinic supplies.

    Integers Read and write, add or subtract, multiply or divideintegers.For example, reading and writing venous pressures;calculating joint ranges of motion; monitoringdeviations in budgets.

    Rational Numbers -Fractions

    Read and write, add or subtract fractions, multiply ordivide by a fraction, multiply or divide fractions.For example, adding fractions of hours spent withspecific patients; multiplying fractions of hours wheninvoicing patients, workers' compensation boards andinsurance companies.

    Rational Numbers -Decimals

    Read and write, round off, add or subtract decimals,multiply or divide by a decimal, multiply or dividedecimals.For example, reading and writing grip strengths anddistances walked; totalling invoice amounts;calculating payroll amounts.

    Rational Numbers -Percent

    Read and write percents, calculate the percent onenumber is of another, calculate a percent of a number.For example, reading percentages of oxygen required

    for oxygen therapy; calculating percentage discountsfor larger quantities of exercise bands, gym balls andweights; calculating federal and provincial salestaxes; calculating the cost of musculo-skeletalsupports on an invoice when only the after-taxamount is known.

    Equivalent RationalNumbers

    Convert between fractions and decimals orpercentages.Convert between decimals and percentages.For example, expressing a patient's range of motionas a fraction or percentage of the normal range;converting federal and provincial sales taxes betweenpercentages and decimals to simplify calculations.

    Patterns and

    Relations Equations and

    FormulaeUse formulae by inserting quantities for variables andsolving.For example, inserting weights lifted and numbers ofrepetitions into an equation to calculate the optimalweight to be lifted by a patient wishing to increasemuscular strength.

    Use of Rate, Ratio andProportion

    Use a rate showing comparison between twoquantities with different units.Use a ratio showing comparison between twoquantities with the same units.Use a proportion showing comparison between tworatios or rates in order to solve problems.For example, setting rates of oxygen flows in litresper minute; using ratios of exercise times to restingtimes to determine the durations of exercise sets;using proportional calculations to scale staffrequirements for different volumes of operations.

    Shape and Spatial

    Sense Measurement

    ConversionsPerform measurement conversions.For example, converting distances traveled bypatients on treadmills from miles to kilometres for

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    data recording; converting grip strengths betweenpounds and kilograms for patients familiar with onlyone measurement system.

    Geometry Use geometry.For example, using geometry to adjust equipment fora patient's use; determining body positions andangles to use in weight-bearing exercises tomaximize benefits and minimize the risks of injury.

    Recognizing common angles.

    Drawing, sketching and forming common forms andfigures.

    Statistics and

    Probability Summary Calculations Calculate averages.

    Calculate rates other than percentages.Calculate proportions or ratios.For example, calculating average scores on series ofstretching exercises; calculating walking speeds;

    calculating patients-physiotherapists ratios. Statistics and

    ProbabilityUse descriptive statistics (e.g. collecting, classifying,analyzing and interpreting data).For example, collecting, analysing and interpretingdata to monitor the progress of treatments and toproject the lengths of treatment programs.

    Using tables, schedules or other table-like text.

    Using graphical presentations.

    The symbol is explained in the Use of Symbols section.

    In their heads.

    Using a pen and paper.

    Using a calculator.

    Using a computer.

    The symbol is explained in the Use of Symbols section.

    Time. For example, using clocks, watches and stopwatches.

    Weight or mass. For example, using digital scales.

    Distance or dimension. For example, using tape measures, measuring wheels,

    b. How Calculations are Performed

    c. Measurement Instruments Used

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    pedometers and treadmills.

    Temperature. For example, using digital thermometers and gauges on ultrasoundequipment.

    Pressure. For example, using hand dynamometers and modified sphygmomanometers.

    Wattage. For example, using gages on ultrasound equipment.

    Angles. For example, using goniometers.

    Heart rates. For example, using heart rate monitors.

    Oxygen saturations. For example, using saturometers.

    Use the SI (metric) measurement system.

    Using the imperial measurement system.

    E. Oral Communication

    Tasks Complexity Level Examples

    Typical

    Most Complex

    1 to 3

    4

    Physiotherapists

    may speak to suppliers and purchasing officers toorder and coordinate deliveries of products andequipment. For example, physiotherapists inhospitals, rehabil itation centres and extended carefacili ties may order tapes, exercise bands,musculo-skeletal supports, braces, gym balls andweights from purchasing officers. Physiotherapists

    in private clinics may coordinate the deliveries ofhi-lo tables, parallel bars, treadmills, ergometers,ellipticals, weight stations and hydro-therapyequipment with suppliers. (1)give directions to co-workers and discuss ongoingwork with them. For example, a physiotherapistmay provide directions to an assistant for carryingout tasks such as removing hot packs from apatient's leg and operating ultrasound equipment.The therapist may also speak to co-workers aboutweekly work schedules, cancelled appointmentsand new patients needing assessments. (2)discuss patients' conditions, needs and progress

    with orthopedic surgeons, physiatrists,rheumatologists, neurologists, physicalrehabilitation technicians, other physiotherapistsand other health care professionals. For example,a physiotherapist may discuss a patient's occipitalfracture, cerebral concussion and resulting chronicheadaches, acuphen and loss of smell with thereferring neurologist. The physiotherapist mayreport an alleviation of pain obtained throughusing the Gunn Intramuscular Stimulationtechnique and seek advice on what may be causinga metallic taste in the patient's mouth. (3)discuss medical histories, physical conditions,

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    injuries and dysfunctions with patients and theirfamilies. They help patients identify reasonabletreatment goals which may include theimprovement of joint range of motion, strength,mobility, balance, endurance and respiratoryfunction and the reduction of pain. They explainphysical assessment results and discuss treatmentoptions. They answer questions about treatmentprocedures and alleviate concerns. They alsoeducate patients and their families about exercisesand other measures to manage prevailingconditions and prevent recurrent injuries anddysfunctions. (3)make presentations to colleagues and communitygroups. For example, a physiotherapist in a sportsclinic may deliver a presentation about injuryprevention and proper medical care for athletes toa group of amateur coaches. A physiotherapist in ahospital may speak to a group of physiotherapystudents about recommended exercises to improvemobility in patients suffering from Parkinson'sdisease. A physiotherapist in a geriatric institutemay talk to a seniors' association about the

    prevention of falls. (4)

    The symbol is explained in the Use of Symbols section.

    In person. For example, explaining assessment results and treatment approaches topatients.

    Using a telephone. For example, listening to phone messages from patients, suppliers,co-workers and colleagues.

    Others e.g. video conferencing, public address system. For example, using intercomsystems in hospitals, rehabilitation centres and extended care facilities.

    Significant environmental factors affecting oral communication were not reported by jobincumbents.

    Environmental Factors Affecting Communication

    Oral Communication Summary

    Modes of Communication Used

    The symbol is explained in the Use of Symbols section.

    Type

    Purpose for Oral Communication (Part I)

    To greetTo take

    messages

    To

    provide/receive

    information,

    explanation,

    direction

    To seek, obtain

    information

    To co-ordinate

    work with that

    of others

    To

    reassure,

    comfort

    Listening (little or no

    interaction)

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    F. Thinking Skills

    Speaking (little or no

    interaction)

    Interact with

    co-workers

    Interact with those

    you supervise or

    direct

    Interact with

    supervisor/manager

    Interact with peersand colleagues from

    other organization

    Interact with

    customers/clients/

    public

    Interact with

    suppliers, servicers

    Participate in group

    discussion

    Present information

    to a small group

    Present information

    to a large group

    The symbol is explained in the Use of Symbols section.

    Type

    Purpose for Oral Communication (Part II)

    To discuss

    (exchange

    information,

    opinions)

    To persuadeTo facilitate,

    animate

    To instruct,

    instill

    understanding,

    knowledge

    To negotiate,

    resolve conflict

    To

    entertain

    Listening (little or no

    interaction)

    Speaking (little or no

    interaction)

    Interact with

    co-workers Interact with those

    you supervise or

    direct

    Interact with

    supervisor/manager

    Interact with peers

    and colleagues from

    other organization

    Interact with

    customers/clients/

    public

    Interact with

    suppliers, servicers

    Participate in group

    discussion

    Present information

    to a small group

    Present information

    to a large group

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    Typical

    Most Complex

    1 to 3

    3

    Physiotherapists

    are occasionally unable to perform treatments asplanned because equipment is unavailable. Forexample, a physiotherapist may realize that noweight training station is available for arehabilitation session with a patient. The therapistmay teach free weight exercises to the patient untilthe station becomes available. (1)find that some patients miss appointments and

    others arrive late. They diplomatically remind suchpatients that they have busy schedules and cannotafford late arrivals and no-shows. Physiotherapistsin private practices may also charge patients formissed appointments. (2)encounter patients who are difficult to treat. Forexample, they experience difficulties in gettingsome patients to carry out prescribed therapeuticexercises. They try different approaches in order tomotivate patients to conform to treatment andrehabilitation plans. If they fail in their attempts,they may recommend that physiotherapy servicesbe discontinued. (3)

    1. Problem Solving

    Tasks Complexity Level Examples

    2. Decision Making

    Tasks Complexity Level Examples

    Typical

    Most Complex

    2 to 3

    3

    Physiotherapists

    may select workers for jobs such as receptionists,secretaries, office administrators andphysiotherapy assistants. They consider individualacademic backgrounds, skills, experiences,strengths, weaknesses and availabilities. (2)may select suppliers for specific products andequipment. They take into account factors such asquality, specifications, prices and promiseddelivery dates. (2)select physiotherapy techniques, approaches andequipment to maintain, improve and restorephysical functioning and autonomy, alleviate painand prevent physical dysfunctions in patients. Forexample, they may select manipulative therapy torestore physical functioning in patients with sportsinjuries. They may prescribe exercises to improvepatients' strength, mobility, coordination, flexibilityand balance. They may also prescribe wheelchairsto increase the functional independence ofparaplegic patients. They use professionalknowledge and consider the treatment andrehabilitation objectives of patients. (3)

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    Complexity Level Description

    3. Critical Thinking

    Tasks Complexity Level Examples

    Typical

    Most Complex

    2 to 3

    3

    Physiotherapists

    evaluate the reasonableness of treatment goalssuggested by patients. They consider eachpatient's overall health condition, age, lifestyle,motivation and physical abilities. (2)evaluate the performance of workers such asreceptionists, secretaries, office administratorsand physiotherapy assistants. For example,physiotherapists in university hospitals mayassess the performance of studentphysiotherapists who assist them with jobtasks. As part of these assessments, theydetermine the extent to which students havedemonstrated the required technical andpersonal skills. They assign performanceratings to the skills observed and justify them

    in writing. They may recommend furthersupervised assignments at the conclusion ofthese performance evaluations. (3)evaluate patients' physical abilities anddisabilities. They review patients' medicalhistory forms, referral letters and treatmentrecords. They clarify information aboutaccidents, injuries, dysfunctions and pain bytalking to patients and referring health careprofessionals. They conduct physicalexaminations and tests, measure patients'strength, mobility, coordination, flexibility,balance and other abilities and interpret

    results. They may also analyze radiographs,sonograms and other diagnostic images. As aconsequence of these evaluations, they mayrecommend treatment and rehabili tation plansfor patients. (3)evaluate the effectiveness of techniques,approaches and equipment used to treatpatients' dysfunctions and disorders. Theyschedule regular visits with patients to monitorresponses to treatments. They identify workstill to be done to meet objectives identified intreatment and rehabilitation plans. Forexample, a physiotherapist may assess the

    effectiveness of specific exercises to improvemobility in a patient suffering from Parkinson'sdisease. The physiotherapist may also assessthe effectiveness of the Gunn IntramuscularStimulation technique to treat a patient withchronic pain of neuropathic origin. (3)

    4. Job Task Planning and Organizing

    Complexity Level Description

    3 Own job planning and organizing

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    Physiotherapists plan and organize job tasks to meet thetreatment needs of their patients. They set priorities andprovide input into the day-to-day scheduling of patients' visitsalthough their actual appointments are often booked byco-workers. Lack of equipment, appointment cancellations,emergencies and other unexpected events force them tofrequently reorganize job tasks.

    Planning and organizing for others

    Physiotherapists play a central role in organizing, planningand scheduling health services and contribute to long-termand strategic planning for their organizations. They may beresponsible for assigning tasks to receptionists, secretaries,office administrators, physiotherapy assistants and otherworkers.

    5. Significant Use of Memory

    Examples

    may remember security codes to access computers, photocopiers and fax machines.

    may remember activity codes to speed up time log entry and bill ing processes.

    remember patients' names and details about their medical histories, physicalconditions, injuries and dysfunctions to save time, facilitate communication andshow genuine interest.

    remember assessments and treatments performed during the day, specific problemsencountered and recommendations discussed in order to complete patients' recordsat the end of the day.

    6. Finding Information

    Tasks Complexity Level Examples

    Typical

    Most Complex

    2 to 4

    4

    Physiotherapists

    find information on patients' health byinterviewing them, consulting referring healthcare professionals and searching medicalhistory forms and treatment records. (2)find detailed information on products andequipment used in physiotherapy by contacting

    manufacturers and searching their websites.(2)find information on continuing educationworkshops and courses relevant to particularclinical areas by consulting co-workers andcolleagues, searching trade magazines andnewsletters, contacting professional societies,hospitals, universities and other trainingorganizations and by searching their websites.(3)find information about unfamiliar dysfunctions,disorders and treatments of the musculo-

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    skeletal, nervous, cardiovascular andcardiopulmonary systems by consultingco-workers and colleagues and searching awide range of sources including textbooks,trade publications, physiotherapy and medical

    journals and the Internet. (4)

    G. Working with Others

    3 Physiotherapists generally integrate and coordinate job tasks withother members of medical teams. Physiotherapists assigned toneurology and traumatology patients in a hospital may have tocoordinate job tasks with neurologists, speech therapists, nurses,occupational therapists, social workers and neuropsychologists.Physiotherapists in a private clinic may direct, lead, supervise andtrain secretaries, office administrators and physiotherapy assistantsto ensure the quality, efficiency and effectiveness of services.

    The symbol is explained in the Use of Symbols section.

    Participate in formal discussions about work processes or product improvement.

    Have opportunities to make suggestions on improving work processes.

    Monitor the work performance of others.

    Inform other workers or demonstrate to them how tasks are performed.

    Orient new employees.

    Make hiring recommendations.

    Make hiring decisions.

    Select contractors and suppliers.

    Assign routine tasks to other workers.

    Assign new or unusual tasks to other workers.

    Identify training that is required by, or would be useful for, other workers.

    Deal with other workers' grievances or complaints.

    Tasks Complexity Level Examples

    Typical

    MostComplex

    2

    4

    Physiotherapists

    use word processing. For example, they maywrite and edit text for treatment andrehabilitation plans, letters, leaflets, case studyreports and journal articles using word

    Participation in Supervisory or Leadership Activities

    H. Computer Use

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    processing programs such as Word. Theygenerally use basic page and characterformatting features. (2)may use graphics software. For example, theymay create slide shows using presentationsoftware such as PowerPoint. In order todevelop effective presentations for students,colleagues and community groups, they mayimport and place scanned images. (2)may use databases. For example, they mayenter and retrieve patients' appointment,assessment and treatment data from hospitaland clinic databases. They may also search,display and print data from physiotherapyevidence databases such as PEDro. (2)use communications software. For example,they use e-mail programs such as Outlook toexchange e-mail messages and attachmentswith co-workers, colleagues and patients. (2)use the Internet. For example, they useInternet browsers such as Explorer to obtaininformation about physiotherapy treatments,training courses and equipment. They also use

    these browsers to access physiotherapyassociations' websites and online journals andparticipate in discussion forums. (2)may use other computer and softwareapplications. For example, physiotherapists inprivate practices may assess their clinics'information technology needs and selectelectronic medical recording and clinicalmanagement systems such as ABELMed-Physio,PhysioGraphic and Pro DF. Using thesesystems, they may create patients' files,schedule and manage appointments, performautomatic billing and receipts' preparation,

    record assessments and treatments andgenerate reports. They may also selectphysiotherapy planning software such asPhysiotec and PlaniPhysio-Action to preparepersonalized exercise programs for patients.They may participate in configuring softwareand training co-workers who will be using it.(4)

    Computer Use Summary

    The symbol is explained in the Use of Symbols section.

    Use word processing.

    Use graphics software.

    Use a database.

    Use communications software.

    Use Internet

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    Other

    Complexity Level Description4

    Continuous learning is an integral part of the job for

    physiotherapists. They are expected to expand their knowledge ofphysical functions, dysfunctions and disorders and to stay abreast oflegislative changes, technological advances and research conductedin their physiotherapy practice areas. They acquire new learning byspeaking with co-workers and colleagues, browsing the Internet andreading extensively. They also attend conferences, seminars,symposia, workshops and courses offered by professional societiesand orders, universities, hospitals and other organizations.

    How Learning Occurs

    Learning may be acquired:

    As part of regular work activity.

    From co-workers.

    Through training offered in the workplace.

    Through reading or other forms of self-studyat work.

    on worker's own time.using materials available through work.using materials obtained through a professional association orunion.using materials obtained on worker's own initiative.

    Through off-site trainingduring working hours at no cost to the worker.partially subsidized.with costs paid by the worker.

    The symbol is explained in the Use of Symbols section.

    J. Other Information

    In addition to collecting information for this Essential Skills Profile, ourinterviews with job incumbents also asked about the following topics.

    Physical Aspects

    Physiotherapists are required to walk, stand, bend, kneel and sit. Theywalk between examination rooms in their offices to meet patients. Theystand, bend, kneel and move into different body angles while carrying

    I. Continuous Learning

    For informationon research,definitions, andscalingprocesses ofEssential SkillsProfiles, pleaseconsult theReaders' Guideto EssentialSkills Profiles.

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    out treatments and demonstrating exercises to patients. They sit attheir desks to read documents and perform computer-assisted tasks.Physiotherapists use hand-eye coordination, multiple limb coordinationand manual dexterity to perform therapeutic manipulations, massagesand exercises. They may also need fine motor skil ls to operate needleswhen using the Gunn Intramuscular Stimulation technique andproviding physiotherapy acupuncture treatments. Physiotherapists usemedium to heavy strength to perform their tasks. Heavy strength maybe required to support patients through mobility training and tomanipulate their l imbs. Physiotherapists are required to have enhancedtactile sensory and proprioceptive skills to examine muscle and bonestructures and treat patients.

    Attitudes

    Physiotherapists must enjoy dealing with patients and healthprofessionals and be positive, respectful, patient, empathetic and calm.They must recognize patients' small successes and build on them torestore physical functioning. They need to see beyond the requiredwork tasks and remember that connecting with patients is part of their

    jobs.

    Future Trends Affecting Essential Skills

    In the future, the occupation will continue to face technological andregulatory changes and require improved essential skills ofphysiotherapists. The constant development of technologies andtechniques to aid in physical ability assessment and pain managementwill demand that they continue to develop their ability to findinformation, especially over the Internet. To evaluate these newtechnologies and techniques, they will require good reading skills andthe ability to think critically. Moreover, they may need to engage inmore continuous learning to stay abreast of regulatory changes at theprovincial level.

    K. Notes

    This profile is based on interviews with job incumbents across Canada and validatedthrough consultation with industry experts across the country.

    Date Modified: 2012-09-20

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