Before each session with a patient in the ICU, the physical therapist assistant should consult with which healthcare professional?

In the context of working in an ICU setting, the physical therapist assistant should consult with the nurse before each session with a patient. This is crucial because nurses are responsible for the day-to-day patient care and are intimately aware of the patient's current medical status, any changes in their condition, vital signs, and other essential information that may affect the safety and efficacy of physical therapy interventions.

Nurses can provide insight into the patient's tolerance for activity, potential contraindications, and any specific precautions that need to be considered during treatment. This collaboration ensures that the physical therapist assistant can deliver care that is safe and aligned with the overall treatment plan established by the healthcare team.

While the other healthcare professionals may have valuable information, the nurse typically has the most direct and relevant understanding of the patient's immediate condition, making them the most appropriate point of consultation prior to therapy sessions in an intensive care context.