Which statements are absolute contraindications for PT in inpatient care?

Which statements are absolute contraindications for PT in inpatient care?

• A. Unstable vitals
• B. Active bleeding
• C. Severe distress
• D. All of the above

Answer: (D)

Safety in PT practice is the priority in inpatient care. If a patient has unstable vitals, active bleeding, or severe distress, performing therapy could cause immediate harm. Unstable vitals indicate the body's systems are not ready to handle even light activity, and movement could precipitate deterioration. Active bleeding means any movement or increased blood pressure could worsen the bleed or lead to hemodynamic instability. Severe distress shows the patient cannot safely participate and may deteriorate rapidly with exertion. Because each of these situations poses an immediate risk, they are absolute contraindications, and therapy should be paused with medical stabilization or clearance before proceeding.

Safety in PT practice is the priority in inpatient care. If a patient has unstable vitals, active bleeding, or severe distress, performing therapy could cause immediate harm. Unstable vitals indicate the body's systems are not ready to handle even light activity, and movement could precipitate deterioration. Active bleeding means any movement or increased blood pressure could worsen the bleed or lead to hemodynamic instability. Severe distress shows the patient cannot safely participate and may deteriorate rapidly with exertion. Because each of these situations poses an immediate risk, they are absolute contraindications, and therapy should be paused with medical stabilization or clearance before proceeding.