Clinical Nurse Leader Practice Exam

Which member of the interdisciplinary team is most important for a patient one day post knee replacement?

1. Physical Therapy (PT)

2. Speech Therapy (ST)

3. Dietary

4. Financial Counselor

The correct answer is: Physical Therapy (PT)

The most important member of the interdisciplinary team for a patient one day post knee replacement is the physical therapist. This is primarily due to the critical role that physical therapy plays in the recovery and rehabilitation process after orthopedic surgeries, particularly those involving the lower extremities. Post-operative patients, such as those who have undergone knee replacement surgery, face challenges with mobility and strength in the affected limb. Physical therapists are responsible for assessing the patient's mobility status, creating individualized rehabilitation plans, and guiding them through exercises to improve range of motion, strength, and functional abilities. Early mobilization is crucial, as it helps reduce the risk of complications such as deep vein thrombosis and promotes faster healing and recovery. While other disciplines like speech therapy, dietary, and financial counseling can contribute to the patient's overall care in various contexts, their roles are less immediately critical in the post-operative phase of knee replacement surgery. Speech therapy may be relevant for patients with specific communication or swallowing needs, dietary staff address nutrition, and financial counselors help manage costs, but none of these specialties directly facilitate the physical recovery and mobility essential after surgery like physical therapy does. Thus, the physical therapist's intervention is vital in the immediate aftermath of the surgery to promote successful rehabilitation.