Which elements are included in a physical therapy assessment?

A physical therapy assessment fundamentally aims to evaluate a patient’s physical capabilities and needs in order to develop an effective treatment plan. The correct answer includes range of motion, motor power, and functional abilities, which are essential components in assessing a patient's physical condition.

Range of motion involves measuring how far a joint can move and is crucial for identifying limitations that may affect a patient’s activities. Motor power assesses the strength of muscles and is vital for establishing the patient’s ability to perform daily tasks. Functional abilities evaluate how well a patient can carry out specific activities, indicating their level of independence and guiding therapy goals. Together, these elements provide a comprehensive view of the patient's physical capabilities, which is fundamental in physical therapy practice.

In contrast, recommendations for medication fall outside the scope of physical therapy, as physical therapists do not prescribe medication. Billing and insurance information, while important for the administrative aspects of healthcare, do not directly relate to the assessment of a patient’s physical therapy needs. Patient demographics and contact information are also relevant for record-keeping rather than clinical assessment purposes, making them less significant when evaluating a patient's physical condition.