Geriatric Practice: Screening for Cardiopulmonary Compromise

Presented by Ray VanWye

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Video Runtime: 41 Minutes; Learning Assessment Time: 31 Minutes

As healthcare evolves, physical therapists are increasingly encountering patients with complex cardiopulmonary conditions, necessitating a deeper understanding and precise management skills. This course is designed to address the critical need for enhanced screening and referral capabilities in physical therapy, particularly in the context of cardiopulmonary care. Physical therapists will learn to identify signs and symptoms that may fall outside the scope of their practice and require intervention from other healthcare professionals. This proactive approach is crucial in preventing missed diagnoses and ensuring comprehensive patient care. The course is for physical therapists working across various settings who wish to augment their expertise in cardiopulmonary physical therapy and improve patient outcomes through effective interprofessional collaboration.

Learning Objectives
  • Implement an effective referral plan that ensures seamless transitions for patients between physical therapists and other healthcare professionals
  • Examine the pathophysiology, symptoms, and progression of common cardiopulmonary conditions to enhance diagnosis accuracy and tailor intervention strategies effectively
  • Determine when a patient’s cardiopulmonary signs or symptoms exceed the scope of physical therapy and necessitate intervention from other healthcare professionals
  • Examine case studies to identify common red flags and patterns in cardiopulmonary conditions that may necessitate referral or further medical evaluation
  • Evaluate patient history and examination results to discern underlying cardiopulmonary issues that could impact treatment outcomes and overall health

Meet your instructor

Ray VanWye

Dr. Ray VanWye has been a licensed physical therapist since 2006 and has taught within an entry-level Doctor of Physical Therapy program since 2015. He specializes in differential diagnosis, screening for referral, and cardiopulmonary physical therapy. Dr. VanWye earned a BS (2001) and MS (2007) in exercise science from…

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Chapters & learning objectives

Common Cardiopulmonary Conditions

1. Common Cardiopulmonary Conditions

This chapter delves into the spectrum of common cardiopulmonary conditions, exploring their pathophysiology, symptoms, and typical progression. This foundational knowledge is essential for physical therapists to accurately assess and tailor interventions for patients with these conditions. Understanding these aspects enhances the therapist’s ability to provide targeted and effective care, which is crucial for managing complex health scenarios in cardiopulmonary patients.

Screening for Referral: Cardiopulmonary Compromise

2. Screening for Referral: Cardiopulmonary Compromise

This chapter focuses on the skills needed to screen for signs and symptoms of cardiopulmonary compromise that may require referral to other healthcare professionals. It emphasizes the importance of early detection and accurate assessment in preventing adverse outcomes and facilitating timely intervention. Physical therapists will learn to integrate these screening techniques seamlessly into their practice, ensuring comprehensive care and enhancing patient safety in various clinical settings.

Case Examples of Cardiopulmonary Compromise

3. Case Examples of Cardiopulmonary Compromise

This chapter presents a series of detailed case studies that illustrate the practical application of theories and screening techniques discussed in earlier chapters. Through real-world scenarios, it provides insights into recognizing and responding to cardiopulmonary compromise. Physical therapists will gain an enhanced understanding of how to apply clinical knowledge effectively, adjust treatment plans, and collaborate with other healthcare professionals to manage complex cardiopulmonary conditions.