What type of supervision is required for a PTA when working with a board-certified orthopedic physician?

The correct answer is general supervision without onsite oversight. In the context of physical therapy practice in Florida, general supervision implies that while the physical therapist assistant (PTA) can operate independently in the provision of services, oversight by a licensed physical therapist is still required. However, this supervision does not necessitate the physical presence of the supervising therapist at all times.

This means that the PTA can perform their duties, including working closely with patients and implementing treatment plans that have been established by a licensed physical therapist, all while the physical therapist is not physically present. This arrangement allows for greater flexibility in treatment scheduling and patient management, particularly in settings where the demands for care are high or when a board-certified orthopedic physician is involved in the broader scope of patient care.

In contrast, options involving direct supervision or constant onsite supervision would require the physical therapist to be present at all times during the PTA's treatment sessions, which is not the standard requirement for supervision in general practice scenarios. Self-directed practice without any oversight fails to align with the legal requirements set forth for PTAs and their collaborative relationship with licensed therapists.