District of Columbia Physical Therapy Jurisprudence Practice Exam

Which of the following medications can a physical therapist purchase, store, and administer?

1. Oral medications

2. Topical and aerosol medications

3. Injectable medications

4. Liquid medications

The correct answer is: Topical and aerosol medications

The correct response is that physical therapists are typically authorized to purchase, store, and administer topical and aerosol medications. These types of medications are often used within physical therapy settings to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, or provide localized treatment to specific areas of the body. The topical forms, such as gels or creams, allow for direct application to the skin, which is commonly practiced in physical therapy for conditions like musculoskeletal pain. Aerosolized medications may also be used for respiratory conditions, providing therapists with tools to enhance patients' breathing or assist with pulmonary rehabilitation. Understanding the scope of practice related to medication is crucial for physical therapists, as it aligns with the therapeutic goals and treatments frequently administered in a clinical environment. Other types of medications, such as oral or injectable forms, typically fall beyond the standard practice scope for physical therapists and may require additional licensure or training to administer legally and safely.