What does a 'plan of care' typically include?

A 'plan of care' is a comprehensive document that outlines the strategies for addressing a patient’s needs within the context of physical therapy. It typically includes goals, which are specific outcomes that the therapist aims to achieve with the patient. These goals guide the treatment process and provide a benchmark for measuring progress.

Interventions refer to the specific therapeutic activities or modalities that will be employed to help the patient reach those goals. This could involve exercises, manual therapies, or use of equipment, tailored to the individual’s condition and capabilities.

Desired outcomes describe the ideal state that the patient is expected to achieve as a result of the interventions. These outcomes are often measurable and are essential for assessing the effectiveness of the treatment.

Additionally, a well-structured plan of care will also include criteria for discharge, which outlines the conditions under which the patient can conclude therapy. This ensures that the treatment is patient-centered, focuses on measurable progress, and provides clear guidelines for both the therapist and the patient.

In contrast, the other options fail to encompass the comprehensive nature of a 'plan of care.' Simply listing the diagnosis does not provide actionable steps or goals towards rehabilitation. A medication list would be more pertinent to a medical plan rather than a therapeutic treatment approach, and emergency treatment procedures,