What a PT does
Everyday Tasks
Work Environment
How to become a PT
What to do now
100

Give one example of something a PT does

Improve movement, manage pain, prevent pain, etc.

100

What do PTs do with patients to help them?

Variety of different exercises and use different equipment, stretches, activities that improve mobility.

100

What is the largest employer of PTs?

Physical therapy offices specifically, other therapy offices as well.

100

What license is required to be a PT?

Doctor of Physical Therapy Degree (DPT).

100

Name a core class required from high school.

Biology, chemistry, 3 years of math.

200

Who do PTs care for?

Anyone who needs it! Any age, all different injuries

200

How to PTs get background information they need?

Talking to doctors, going over medical files.

200

Name an employer/place to work of PTs. 

Hospitals, home healthcare services, nursing and residential care facilities.

200

How long does the program to get your PT license usually last?

3 years.

200

Name a class beneficial, but optional to take in high school.

Anatomy and Physiology.

300

Name a reason someone may need to see a PT.

Stroke, sports injury, etc.
300

What do PTs need to create, change, and record frequently?

Plans of care for each patient.

300

What is the least common work environment for PTs?

Self employed workers.

300

Name an example of a course/ work completed within the PT program?

Pharmacology, neuroscience, biomechanics, clinical work.

300

What type of volunteering would be beneficial to become a PT?

Volunteering in a healthcare setting.

400

Do physical therapists typically work alone, if not, with who?

No. Often consult many different doctors or surgeons of patients.

400

What do PTs need to be able to educate patients and their families about?

Treatment plans, outcomes, recovery process, and any challenges that may arise during the process.

400

Name a reason why the job of a PT is physically demanding.

Lifting and moving patients, constantly on your feet.

400

What exam do you have to pass to receive your licence?

National Physical Therapy Examination.

400

Name another beneficial step to become more familiar with physical therapy.

Job shadowing.

500

Name an example of a specialized area of care for a PT.

Pediatrics, sports, geriatrics, orthopedics,etc.

500

Name an example of a reason why a treatment plan may need to be changed.

No progress seen.

500

Why do PTs use special techniques when lifting/ assisting patients?

To ensure they avoid injury.

500

After graduation, what do PTs usually do for a year?

Residency program.

500

What is one of the top 5 physical therapy schools?

  • The University of South Carolina

  • The University of Pittsburgh

  • Washington University in St. Louis

  • University of Delaware

  • University of Iowa