STANDARD IV

Evaluation

Respiratory Therapists will evaluate the patient's progress towards the achievement of anticipated objectives and will maintain, revise or discontinue the treatment plan as required in consultation with the physician and in accordance with the department assessment protocol.

Characteristics:

Therapists will understand the phrase "evaluate the patient's progress" to mean:

That through the use of measurable objective and subjective parameters the therapist will evaluate the patient's degree of progress, or lack of progress, towards the planned aims and expected outcomes of treatment.

In cases where the treatment modalities significantly are altered from the initial physician's order, the therapist will provide a written not stating:

  1. Reasons for the changes in treatment.
  2. Results of discussions with the physician and authorization of the change.

Therapists will understand the phrase "discontinue treatment" to mean:

  1. The expected outcomes of treatment have been achieved and the outlined problems have been resolved.
  2. There is a reference to the fact that the referring physician is aware and approves the discontinuation of treatment.
  3. Where applicable there is a note which outlines follow-up care.

Education:

The progress notes are legible, concise and pertinent. The date and time of each must be noted and properly signed by the therapist.

Criteria:

  1. Through objective and subjective observations the progress notes indicate the patient's response to treatment and evaluate the patient's progress towards specific goals and expected outcomes.
  2. The progress and assessment notes are written in accordance with established procedures.
  3. Changes to the plan of treatment are noted and the physician is informed and authorizes such changes.
  4. Discontinuation of treatment plan when problems have been resolved and expected objectives have been obtained.

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