Physical Therapy Commons^™

From Zoom To The Room: A Practical Model For Holographic Instructor Presence In Multi-Campus Dpt Education, Stacie Mae Larreau Christensen, Brad Dexter

Posters and Presentations: Physical Therapy

No abstract provided.

Measuring Effectiveness Of A Mobility Aide On A Medical-Surgical Unit, Jamie L. Granatowicz, Laura N. Rogers, Leeza A. Struwe

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects: College of Nursing

Purpose: To evaluate the effectiveness of a mobility aide on a medical-surgical inpatient unit to improve patients’ surgical outcomes, decrease hospital length of stay, and decrease the number of falls.

Design: A retrospective review was conducted to determine the effects of a mobility aide implemented on a medical-surgical unit. The intent was to ensure the utilization of the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocol for early mobilization before and after implementation. Two-month periods were analyzed before and after implementation.

Findings: The results demonstrated clinical significance for patients when implementing a mobility aide. The mean length of stay was 1.044 days …

Physical Therapy Assessment Of Work Capacity Gaps In Transition-Aged Youth With Intellectual And Developmental Disabilities, Katelyn Malick, Delaney Roberts, Rachel Ray, Marla Smith, Rhonda Haitz, Anne Woodruff Jameson

Posters and Presentations: Physical Therapy

Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs) experience disproportionately low employment rates despite expressing a strong desire for community integrated employment. This study examined whether discrepancies exist between the current work capacity of adolescents and young adults with IDDs and the physical exertion demands of their desired careers, and explored the role of physical therapy (PT) in addressing these gaps. Forty-five participants (ages 14–24) in the Nebraska EmployABILITY project identified their top career choice. PT‑assessed current work capacity was compared to the physical exertion requirements of the selected job using a standardized exertion scale. Differences were analyzed using the Wilcoxon …

Current Status Of Msk Diagnostic Ultrasound Education In Doctorate Of Physical Therapy Programs In The United States: A Survey, Lesley Parrish Dr., Heather E. Mount, Casey Charlebois

Innovations in Health Sciences Education Journal

Musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSK-US) is a dynamic, cost-effective imaging modality increasingly integrated into Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) curricula. Despite growing interest, variability exists in the integration and implementation of MSK-US in entry-level DPT programs. This study aimed to assess the current status of MSK-US education in accredited DPT programs across the United States. A cross-sectional survey was distributed to all 294 accredited DPT programs in the U.S. via email. The survey consisted of 32 questions that addressed curriculum content, instructional methods, faculty qualifications, and barriers to implementation. Participation was voluntary, and 44 programs responded. No experimental interventions were applied. The …

Multi-Dimensional Research Appraisal: A Holistic Approach To Evidence-Informed Practice, John Damiao

Translational Science in Occupation

The field of occupational therapy (OT) and healthcare in general have made great strides in enhancing their scientific rigor through study methodologies that prioritize internal validity. However, concerns regarding reproducibility and replicability in research have cast doubt on traditional evidence-based models. This paper critically examines the limitations of an over-reliance on internal validity in evidence reviews and advocates for a multi-dimensional approach to evidence-based practice. By integrating methodological holism, contextual analysis, and a critical appraisal of external validity, this approach provides practitioners with a more nuanced and applicable framework for decision-making. The implications for research credibility and clinical confidence are …

Management Of Patients Post-Stroke: An Evidence Update, Stacie Mae Larreau Christensen

Posters and Presentations: Physical Therapy

No abstract provided.

From Classroom To Clinic: Innovative Strategies To Develop And Assess Clinical Readiness And Student Success, Megan Frazee, Nicole M. Sleddens, Tessa M. Wells

Posters and Presentations: Physical Therapy

Clinical education readiness is a foundational expectation in physical therapist education and a core requirement of CAPTE accreditation. In response to national concerns regarding variability in student preparedness, the American Council of Academic Physical Therapy published a set of core knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) that students should demonstrate prior to beginning full-time clinical experiences. Many of these KSAs emphasize competencies within the affective domain, such as adherence to professional standards and effective communication. Clinical reasoning is also highlighted as a key component essential for clinical readiness. However, these competencies are often underemphasized and difficult to assess prior to clinical …

Neuro Rehab In Rural America: Interprofessional Strategies For Implementing Evidence Based Practice, Stacie Mae Larreau Christensen, Rebecca L. Kinnison, Amy J. Goldman, Colleen Spellman

Posters and Presentations: Physical Therapy

No abstract provided.

Reliability Of T2-Weighted Mri Volumetric Measurements For Knee Effusion Assessment Following Acl Injury: An Intra-Rater And Inter-Rater Study, Reginald Chinweze, Neal Weldon, Matthew A. Tao, Melissa Manzer, Elizabeth Wellsandt

Posters and Presentations: Physical Therapy

Purpose: Knee effusion after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury and reconstruction is associated with quadriceps dysfunction and may contribute to early osteoarthritis development. This study was subsequently designed to determine the intra-rater and inter-rater reliability of our method for volumetric quantitative measurements of knee effusion using T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) after ACL injury and reconstruction.

Methods: MRIs of 10 ACL-injured knees and 10 uninjured knees from participants aged 15-35 years old were included. Exclusion criteria included previous knee injury/surgery, inflammatory disease, BMI >30 kg/m2, and concomitant grade III ligament tears. Two independent raters analyzed effusion volumes using custom MATLAB …

Proximal Hamstring Strain - Current State Of Practice, Mike Wellsandt

Posters and Presentations: Physical Therapy

No abstract provided.

Ai Made Simple: A Practical Guide For Pt Practice, Stacie Mae Larreau Christensen, Brad Dexter, Megan Frazee

Posters and Presentations: Physical Therapy

No abstract provided.

The 4-Element Movement System Model, Applications For Clinical Instructors And Novice Clinicians, Elizabeth Wellsandt, Sara E. Bills, Stacie Mae Larreau Christensen

Posters and Presentations: Physical Therapy

No abstract provided.

Psychological Safety And Clinical Reasoning In Athletic Training And Physical Therapy Clinical Education: A Nationwide Survey Of Student Perception, Kelsey J. Robinson, Heather David, Beth Kinslow, Jennifer Austin

Innovations in Health Sciences Education Journal

Psychological safety contributes to effective learning environments in healthcare, where clinical experiences foster the development of clinical reasoning skills needed for accurate patient care decisions. Inadequate clinical reasoning skills may lead to misdiagnosis and inappropriate patient care decisions, resulting in poor outcomes and unnecessary costs. This study examines the effect of psychological safety on clinical reasoning within athletic training and physical therapy clinical experiences. A quantitative, cross-sectional survey assessed perceptions of psychological safety and clinical reasoning among Doctor of Physical Therapy and Master of Athletic Training students and recent graduates. Survey measures indicated good reliability (a = .83 and .85). …

Spatiotemporal Gait Parameter Changes During Walking With Blood Flow Restriction, Tanner Ruda, Christopher S. Wichman, Mike Rosenthal

Posters and Presentations: Physical Therapy

No abstract provided.

A Model For Advocacy: Advancing Policy Change In Support For Patients With Medicaid, Betsy J. Becker, Jenae Pope

Posters and Presentations: Physical Therapy

There are differences in access and utilization of care for patients with Medicaid. When patients cannot access timely therapeutic care, the resulting outcomes are often poor. Because a major limiting factor in accessing services is insurance type, investigating optimal coverage practices is an important first step in advocating for change. This abstract reports on Phase One of a larger collaboration with state professional associations for physical therapy (PT), occupational therapy (OT), and speech-language pathology (SLP) to present a model that describes Medicaid authorization services for PT, OT, and SLP, serving as a guide for policy change.

We collaborated with the …

Building Community-Engaged Capacity To Advance Telerehabilitation Services For Patients With Chronic Disease And/Or Disability, Ka-Chun Siu, Brad Dexter, Andrew Lindemeier, Karen Hux, Dipika Aggarwal

Posters and Presentations: Physical Therapy

Purpose:

This report was developed to capture insights from clinicians, patients, and families who have experienced or delivered telehealth services over the past four years. The rapid rise of telehealth during the COVID-19 pandemic presented both challenges and opportunities, but as the initial surge subsided, its continued application in physical therapy has become less clear. This report explores what has worked well in telerehabilitation, identifies ongoing challenges, and provides actionable recommendations to bridge gaps in service delivery. By reflecting on these experiences, this work aims to inform the development of sustainable models that will advance clinical practice, improve patient outcomes, …

Immediate Vs Delayed Feedback In A Progressive Musculoskeletal E-Module Case For Clinical Reasoning Development, Megan Frazee, Krista Gipson, Elizabeth Lyden, Stephanie Langel

Innovations in Health Sciences Education Journal

Introduction: Clinical reasoning (CR) skills are essential when preparing healthcare students to transition to clinical practice. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of feedback timing within a case-based learning (CBL) e-module. The secondary aim was to examine the longitudinal impact on student performance within a standardized patient (SP) simulation and their overall course grade at the end of the semester.

Review of Literature: Feedback is a powerful teaching method to improve student learning. However, there are highly conflicting results regarding the best frequency and timing of feedback. This may be influenced by the level of the …

Physical Activity And Knee Health Outcomes After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction, David Werner

Theses & Dissertations

Anterior cruciate ligament reconstructions (ACLR) have increased in incidence worldwide. After ACLR, individuals are at higher risk for developing early onset knee osteoarthritis. Individuals after ACLR also participate in less physical activity (PA), contributing to an increased risk for early onset knee osteoarthritis and poor overall health outcomes.

The two goals of this work were to 1) determine the relationship between PA and knee health outcomes 18 months after ACLR and 2) determine the feasibility and acceptability of a PA intervention early after ACLR that considered participant thoughts and feelings.

Findings for the first goal suggest that there is no …

From Textbooks To Clinical Practice: Selecting And Implementing Outcomes Measures In Stroke Rehabilitation, Stacie Mae Larreau Christensen, Monica Dial

Posters and Presentations: Physical Therapy

No abstract provided.

Exploring The Interplay Between Physical Activity Wellness, Social Networks, And Academic Performance In Pt Students, Grace C. Johnson, Kellie Gossman, Tessa Wells, Betsy J. Becker

Posters and Presentations: Physical Therapy

Purpose

Recognizing the intersection of peer influence, physical activity, student wellness, and academic performance, this study aims to provide insights that can inform educational practices and promote success among future physical therapist (PT) students. The study's purpose is to investigate the associations between students' physical activity wellness scores, their social networks, and academic performance within the school environment. The research questions are (1) Do students tend to form friendships with classmates who exhibit similar physical activity wellness scores and student achievement? and (2) How do the Exercise Factor scores of PT students align with published normative values?

Subjects: 124 students …

Designing Effective E-Learning Modules: Exploring Best Practices In Module Navigation, Stacie Mae Larreau Christensen, Lukas Pohlmann, Elizabeth Lyden, Elizabeth L. Beam, Stephanie Langel

Posters and Presentations: Physical Therapy

No abstract provided.

A Multiple Methods Study To Describe The Manifestation Of Burnout Of Nebraska Physical Therapists, Nicole M. Sleddens

Theses & Dissertations

The extent of burnout within the profession of physical therapy remains relatively unexplored despite the widespread national attention given to burnout among other healthcare professionals. The purpose of this pilot study was to describe the current state of burnout of physical therapists in Nebraska using a multiple methods approach.

The quantitative phase of the study utilized a cross-sectional design and survey to measure burnout levels and identify associated characteristics of 407 practicing physical therapists in Nebraska. According to the Maslach Burnout Inventory, approximately half the sample exhibited engagement while the other half experienced at least one dimension of burnout. The …

A Mixed Methods Study Of Physical Activity In The Intensive Care Unit And Post-Intensive Care Unit Hospital Stay: Patient Characteristics, Symptom Burden, And Experiences Of Postoperative Adults, Christina Bach

Theses & Dissertations

Background: Physical activity (PA) beginning early in the intensive care unit (ICU) can reduce adverse outcomes commonly experienced by individuals after ICU discharge. Patient-centered approaches to PA in the ICU and reliable activity evaluations are essential for understanding PA's impact on patient outcomes.

Objective: This dissertation sought to evaluate patient-related factors associated with PA in the ICU and post-ICU hospital stay.

Methods: The purpose of the dissertation was to conduct: 1) a concept analysis to define ICU survivorship and identify critical care aspects important for patient recovery; 2) an integrative literature review to assess early mobility (EM) interventions with physical, …

Does Implementation Of A Lifestyle Medicine Curriculum Affect Student Wellness During Doctor Of Physical Therapy Education?, Betsy J. Becker, Kathleen G. Volkman, Tessa Wells, Nicole M. Sleddens, Teresa Cochran

Posters and Presentations: Physical Therapy

Background

Current healthcare environments amplify the need for educational systems to forge healthy workforces to withstand stressors. Our study examines the effects of embedding a lifestyle medicine curriculum on student wellness in a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program, simultaneously preparing students to implement lifestyle medicine with future patients and communities.

Methods

In a DPT program, we implemented a lifestyle medicine curriculum grounded within the Social-Ecological Model. This framework emphasizes student success in the program’s pre-clinical phases, creates a purposeful “ripple effect” threading wellness strategies among peers, patients, and communities, and emphasizes wellness as a clinician over the 32-month curriculum. …

Exploring First Semester Allied Health Students’ Transition To Graduate School Through The Lens Of Occupational Adaptation, Carly E. Williams, Jessica N. O'Brien, Rebecca E. Dodick, Jillian M. Bell, Jennifer O. Knauth, Lorrie A. George-Paschal, Nancy Krusen, Jacquie Rainey

Innovations in Health Sciences Education Journal

The purpose of the study was to examine experiences of students transitioning into graduate allied health programs within a public university in the United States. Researchers assessed students’ occupational adaptation as well as factors that facilitated and inhibited their transition. Researchers collected data using the Relative Mastery Scale (RMS) (George-Paschal, Krusen, & Fan, 2022) and a researcher-developed transition survey. Participants included 129 students from three allied-health professions. Researchers conducted a mixed ANOVA to explore differences in RMS ratings across three disciplines. There was a statistically significant increase in RMS ratings over time for all disciplines and statistically significant differences between …

From Zoom To The Clinic: Unique Student Challenges In Physical Therapy Clinical Education, Amy Both, Jaclyn Catherine Carson, Matthew B. Garber, Heather Marie Mack, Nicole M. Sleddens

Posters and Presentations: Physical Therapy

While the abrupt shift in PT education (PTE) brought on by the pandemic created opportunities for educational innovation, it also brought relational separation and fragmented learning due to lockdowns, social distancing, face masks, and communication limited to virtual platforms. Academic programs increased use of virtual learning, rearranged curriculum, reduced lab and simulated learning time, and provided fewer, if any, opportunities for service learning and patient contact. Clinic sites paused clinic education experiences or hosted fewer students to maintain social distancing and limit disease exposure. As PTE returns to more typical curricular schedules and practices, it is important to be aware …

Immediate Vs Delayed Feedback In A Progressive Musculoskeletal E-Module Case For Clinical Reasoning Development, Megan Frazee, Krista Gipson, Elizabeth Lyden, Stephanie Langel

Posters and Presentations: Physical Therapy

PURPOSE: Educators are responsible for developing clinical reasoning skills in Physical Therapy (PT) students. Simulated virtual experiences allow specific skills, such as clinical reasoning, to be learned and tested (Holdsworth, 2016). PT students prefer a combination of learning from e-modules and lecture formats (Gardner, 2016). Feedback is a critical component for consolidated learning; however, there is no consensus on the best timing of feedback (Schute, 2008). The purpose was to evaluate the impact of immediate versus delayed feedback through an e-module in PT students' accuracy in identifying the primary hypothesis, severity and irritability level for a virtual patient case. The …

Developing A Rapid Assessment Program For Student Success In Clinical Education, Nicole M. Sleddens, Betsy J. Becker, Grace Johnson, Joseph F. Norman

Posters and Presentations: Physical Therapy

Successful management of the struggling student in the clinic relies heavily on the early identification of clinical performance deficits. CIs who directly observe student performance, actions and behaviors should aim for early and precise identification of difficulties, which should lead to initial discussions with the student. If the student's struggles require involvement from the educational institution, the CI should promptly contact and collaborate with the DCE. Early communication with the DCE is beneficial, as they can provide support for CIs overwhelmed by the difficulties that accompany working with a challenging student. The DCE provides guidance on determining the depth of …

Orthopaedic Physical Therapy Residency And Fellowship Program Mentoring Structure: A Survey Of Program Directors, Darren Q. Calley, Kirk R. Bentzen, Megan Frazee, Matthew D. Haberl

Posters and Presentations: Physical Therapy

Purpose/Hypothesis: Mentoring is a required component of physical therapy residency and fellowship training, and a primary reason applicants pursue training in these programs. Resources outlining core competencies for effective mentoring, mentor and mentee characteristics, and recommendations for effective mentoring have been described. However, little is known about the timing, structure, and process of how mentoring and feedback is implemented across residency and fellowship programs. The purpose of this study was to better understand the structure, timing, and delivery of mentoring and the role mentors and program directors (PDs) play in orthopaedic physical therapy residency and fellowship programs. A secondary purpose …

Student Wellness During Curriculum Implementation Of A Lifestyle Medicine Approach Within The Social-Ecological Model: A Longitudinal Study, Betsy J. Becker, Anne Skinner, Tessa Wells, Kathleen G. Volkman, Nicole M. Sleddens, Teresa Cochran

Posters and Presentations: Physical Therapy

Purpose

The student-life experience is an ideal time to implement lifelong wellness behaviors needed for the professional role. The ongoing effects of the COVID pandemic have amplified the need for Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) educational programs to train an emerging workforce that can, through personal wellness, withstand the stressors of personal and professional lives. The study purpose is to: a) evaluate the change in student wellness from matriculation to mid-program to completion after implementation of a curriculum based on a lifestyle medicine approach within the Social-Ecological Model, and b) compare student wellness between cohorts that matriculated before and during …