Discharge planning in a rehab setting: which statement correctly describes PT and PTA roles?

• A. The physical therapist assistant participates in discharge activities, however, the discharge summary should be completed by the physical therapist.
• B. The physical therapist assistant participates in discharge activities and complete the discharge summary.
• C. The physical therapist completes discharge activities, however, the physical therapist assistant completes the discharge summary.
• D. Have the physical therapist complete all discharge activities including the discharge summary.

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is who holds responsibility for discharge planning tasks and the discharge summary. In rehab, the physical therapist leads discharge planning and finalizes the discharge summary because this document communicates the patient’s progress, current status, and the plan for follow-up care. The physical therapy assistant can participate in discharge activities—such as teaching the home exercise program, confirming safety at home, and coordinating items like assistive devices—under the supervision of the PT, but the discharge summary itself is not typically completed by the PTA.

So, the best choice reflects that the PTA can take part in discharge activities, while the discharge summary should be completed by the PT. The other options imply the PTA would complete the discharge summary or that the PT handles all discharge activities alone, which isn’t consistent with the collaborative role and the required professional responsibility for the discharge documentation.