Residency Curriculum Modules: Writing Outpatient Scripts with Aditya Raghunandan, MD-Writing Outpatient Therapy Scripts Presentation

Writing Outpatient Therapy Scripts Presentation

Pdf Summary

This document by Dr. Aditya Raghunandan outlines the process of writing outpatient therapy prescriptions, emphasizing core principles for effective rehabilitation. An outpatient therapy script includes specifying the discipline (e.g., physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech pathology), the patient’s problems or diagnoses, any precautions, visit frequency and duration, treatment details, goals, and plans for re-evaluation.<br /><br />In physical therapy, returning to full sport or activity requires achieving several criteria: full functional range of motion (ROM), adequate static and dynamic stability, satisfactory muscular strength and endurance, and a favorable clinical exam. Treatment approaches include therapeutic modalities like heat, ice, and electrical stimulation (TENS); manual therapy such as myofascial release and joint mobilization; therapeutic exercises (active/active-assisted ROM, strengthening, proprioception, neuromuscular and cardiovascular conditioning); specialized treatments like kinesiotaping and aquatic therapy; plus patient education on home exercise programs (HEP), lifestyle changes, and social support.<br /><br />Precautions to consider when scripting therapy include cardiac or pulmonary diseases, seizures, severe osteoporosis, sensory deficits, wounds, weight-bearing or ROM restrictions, and postoperative limitations.<br /><br />Key takeaways stress focusing on the patient’s personal goals for therapy and life function. The rehabilitation team should maintain goal-oriented interventions that reflect the patient’s real-life activities, ensuring therapy relevance. Effective communication—providing diagnosis, plans, and prognosis—is essential to meet patient expectations and improve outcomes. Moreover, clinicians should assess the entire kinetic chain, as persistent pain often stems from issues above or below the affected area. This comprehensive approach facilitates tailored, effective outpatient rehabilitation plans.

Keywords

outpatient therapy

rehabilitation principles

physical therapy

therapy prescription

therapeutic modalities

manual therapy

therapeutic exercises

patient education

precautions in therapy

goal-oriented rehabilitation