Fall 2022 Clinical Education Feature

What qualifies as a cardiorespiratory experience?

Clinical research supports the assessment and treatment of the cardiorespiratory (CR) system by physiotherapists as a part of the holistic treatment of most patients. It also provides evidence for such assessments and treatments to be utilized in all practice areas, not simply those which are known to treat CR indicator conditions (e.g., heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). Recognizing opportunities to assess and promote the ability to perform aerobic exercise and to identify its role in chronic disease prevention will provide the student with repeated occasions to observe and participate in CR clinical experiences.

All instances where a student utilizes knowledge and skills related to cardio-respiratory assessment and/or interventions should therefore be considered as relevant and appropriate even if the reason for admission is not for a cardiorespiratory condition.

Q: Does it need to include suctioning, postural drainage, chest percussion or vibrations to be cardiorespiratory?
 
A: No! If the student is performing IPPA (inspection, palpation, percussion, and auscultation) on the patient and monitoring response to exercise they should get credit.

Click for checklist of key cardiorespiratory interventions for entry-level physiotherapy students.