Knowledge of physical therapy students regarding acute care physical therapy

Abstract

Introduction: Acute care is a branch of secondary health care which involves short term but seriously active treatment for a serious injury or episode of disease Application and utilization of physical therapy services in the care of acutely and critically ill patients has been recognized with defined evidence to be effective and beneficial for such patients. It ensures early and better achievement of goals and better level of independence and function. Objective: The objective of the study was to determine the knowledge of physical therapy students of Karachi regarding acute care physical therapy. Material and methods: This was a cross-sectional study using convenient non-probability sampling technique performed in different physical therapy colleges and institutes of Karachi. A validated and modified questionnaire was distributed in 100 physical therapy students of fourth and final year. Data was analyzed by SPSS version 20 to calculate descriptive statistics. Results: The results indicated that most of the students (70%) had good knowledge regarding basic concepts and aspects of acute care physical therapy services according to their own perception. But the knowledge of some specific concepts and techniques was found poor for example 69% students did not know what Heimlich maneuver is. Similarly, 44% students did not know about the term pulse oximetry. Conclusion: Overall knowledge of physical therapy students regarding acute care was found to be good. Students considered themselves confident to work in acute care settings. But knowledge of a few advanced techniques was found to be poor.