This case involves an eighty-three-year-old female patient who underwent hip replacement surgery. Two months after the procedure, the patient was referred for physical therapy and, as a result, suffered a debilitation complication. During her first session, the physical therapist introduced the patient to a physical therapy student who was going to be in charge of her case. The physical therapist left the room and the PT student was unsupervised throughout the entire procedure. According to the patient, the PT student manipulated the afflicted leg in an aggressive manner until the patient heard a loud pop, followed by excruciating pain. As a result, the patient had to undergo a hip revision procedure.
Question(s) For Expert Witness
1. Should the physical therapy student have been given the responsibility to manage this patient independent of supervision?
Expert Witness Response E-000326
They should absolutely not have been given this responsibility. The physical therapy student is a health care provider in training and should not be given autonomy in managing the rehabilitation of a patient that just underwent major reconstructive surgery. The student is not licensed to practice independent of supervision and this seems like a clear-cut case of malpractice by the physical therapy firm.
About the author
Michael Talve, CEO
Michael Talve stands at the forefront of legal innovation as the CEO and Managing Director of Expert Institute. Under his leadership, the Expert Institute has established itself as a vital player in the legal technology arena, revolutionizing how lawyers connect with world-class experts and access advanced legal technology. Michael's role involves not only steering the company's strategic direction but also ensuring the delivery of unparalleled intelligence and cutting-edge solutions to legal professionals. His work at Expert Institute has been instrumental in enhancing the capabilities of attorneys in case preparation and execution, making a significant impact on the legal industry's approach to expert consultation and technological integration. Michael's vision and execution have positioned the Expert Institute as a key facilitator in the intersection of law and technology.
