Section 338.7139. Delegation of acts, tasks, or functions to an unlicensed individual; direct supervision of an unlicensed individual; requirements.

Rule 39. (1) A physical therapist who delegates the performance of selected acts, tasks, or functions to an unlicensed individual as permitted under section 16215 of the code shall supervise the unlicensed individual consistent with section 16109(2) of the code and satisfy the requirements of this rule.

(2)         A physical therapist who delegates acts, tasks, or functions to an unlicensed individual shall provide direct supervision of the unlicensed individual. As used in this subrule, "direct supervision" means that the physical therapist is physically present and immediately available for direction and supervision when patients or clients are present at the time the act, task, or function is performed, and that the physical therapist has direct contact with the patient or client during each visit.

(3)     A physical therapist who delegates acts, tasks, or functions under subrule (2) of this rule shall also comply with all of the following:

(a)      Ensure the qualifications of the unlicensed individual under the physical therapist's direct supervision, including verification of the unlicensed individual's training and education.

(b)     Examine and evaluate the patient or client before delegating acts, tasks, or functions to be performed by an unlicensed individual.

(c)       Supervise an unlicensed individual to whom acts, tasks, or functions have been delegated.

(d)      Provide predetermined procedures and protocols for acts, tasks, or functions that have been delegated.

(e)     Maintain a record of the names of the unlicensed individuals to whom acts, tasks, or functions have been delegated.

(f)        Monitor an unlicensed individual's practice and provision of assigned acts, tasks, or functions.

(g)       Meet regularly and in person with the unlicensed individual to whom acts, tasks, or functions have been delegated to evaluate the individual's performance, review records, and educate the unlicensed individual on the acts, tasks, or functions that have been delegated.

(4)      A physical therapist shall not supervise more than 3 unlicensed individuals at the same time.

(5)      A physical therapist shall not delegate the performance of a physical therapy intervention to an unlicensed individual.

(6)      Under section 16171 of the code, the requirements of subrules (2), (3)(b), and

(5)   of this rule do not apply to a student enrolled in an accredited physical therapist or physical therapist assistant educational program approved by the board.

History: 2010 AACS; 2015 AACS.