Abstract
Introduction. The purpose of this study was to determine how often physical therapists (PTs) assess the vital signs of heart rate (HR), blood pressure (BP), and oxygen saturation (SpO2) throughout the United States, and if there are key factors that may affect the assessment of these vital signs. Review of Literature. In previous research (Peters, 2014), it was shown that there are a variety of reasons why the assessment of vital signs is routinely used by some therapists and not by others. Research Questions and Hypotheses. This research aimed to determine the particular reasons why or why not HR, BP, and SpO2 are assessed, and if differences occur between unrestricted vs. restricted direct access states. Methods. An online survey was developed and piloted prior to distribution. All 50 physical therapy state associations and the District of Columbia were contacted for the opportunity for their membership to participate. Of those associations that expressed interest to participate, an email with a link was sent to that state association once approved by the Institutional Review Board (IRB). Results. Data of 286 anonymous respondents were included in the analysis with representation from 24 states with a distribution across most practice areas and settings. There were 60% unrestricted and 32.5% restricted direct access practicing states. Ninety-eight percent of respondents are somewhat confident to extremely confident with taking HR, BP, and SpO2 and 91% are able to assess these vitals within 1-6 min. However, respondents only regularly (>75% of the time) measured vital signs of HR 39%, BP 37%, and SpO2 30% during initial evaluations. During intervention sessions, even less, with HR 31%, BP 26.5%, and SpO2 22%. Discussion. Various reasons were provided for the lack of regular assessment of vital signs with patients. A statistically significant association was noted between frequency of measurement of vital signs by participants and the nature of the direct access in the State of licensure, with a higher frequency of measurement in states with restricted direct access. Conclusion. Insight was gained in patterns of assessment of vital signs as well as rationale behind therapists’ decisions to use these critical measures. Continued research will help inform practice and maximize patient safety.