Guidelines forthe Supervision of Physical Therapy Students
The University of Montana
Developed by David L. Levison, PT, MHS, DCE
In situations where state and federal laws allow, the level of student supervision should be based on the professional judgment of the licensed physical therapist with consideration of the readiness of the student to perform the tasks assigned and with a consideration of the risks and benefits to all those involved.
Considerations for the determination of the type and level of supervision for students include:
- Willingness and comfort level of patient (or parent/guardian)
- Year of student
- Early, middle or final internship
- Student’s previous experience in the particular setting
- Student’s previous experience with particular diagnosis
- Complexity and context of the case
- Student’s previous experience with the types of interventions likely to be utilized
- Preparedness of student
- Confidence of student
Information gathered from the school and student prior to the start of the internship can help in determining the appropriate level of supervision. This may include course descriptions; student self-assessments of preparedness and supervision needs for particular tests and measures; interventions and patient categories; and description of student’s previous clinical experiences.
The following categories are adapted from APTA’s position statement regarding levels of supervision (HOD 06-00-15-26).
General Supervision: The supervising physical therapist is required to be on-site and generally available for direction and supervision, and must be available at least by telecommunications. The supervising physical therapist has consulted with the student on each patient and has approved the plan of care. (In general, this is most appropriate for third-year students when above criteria are satisfied.)
Direct Supervision: The physical therapist is physically present and immediately available for direction and supervision. The physical therapist will have direct contact with the patient during each visit. The supervising physical therapist has consulted with the student on each patient and has approved the plan of care. Telecommunications does not meet the requirement of direct supervision. (In general, this is mostly appropriate for second-year students when the above criteria are satisfied or for third-year students when the above criteria have not been satisfactorily met.)
Direct Personal Supervision: The physical therapist is physically present and immediately available to direct and supervise tasks that are related to patient/client management. The direction and supervision is continuous throughout the time these tasks are performed. Telecommunications does not meet the requirement of direct personal supervision. (In general, applies to first-year students for most situations.)