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7/30/2019 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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