ABPTS PCS case studies
ABPTS PCS · Put your knowledge to work in context.
The Pediatric Certified Specialist (PCS) credential is awarded by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS) to physical therapists who demonstrate advanced clinical competence in pediatric practice. It is intended for licensed PTs with substantial pediatric caseloads - typically in early intervention, school-based services, outpatient clinics, or hospital settings - who want their expertise validated beyond general licensure. The ABPTS PCS case studies are 5 cases and about 2,266 words.
1Post-Operative Total Knee Arthroplasty in an Older Adult with Multiple Comorbidities
A 78-year-old woman is 3 days post left total knee arthroplasty (TKA). She has a history of type 2 diabetes (HbA1c 7.8%), hypertension, and mild cognitive impairment (MCI).
451 words, about 2 min2Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Exacerbation in an Older Adult
A 72-year-old man with moderate COPD (GOLD 2) is admitted to the hospital with an acute exacerbation. He has a 50-year pack-year smoking history, continues to smoke, and uses home oxygen 2 L/min via nasal cannula.
397 words, about 2 min3Differentiating Cervical Radiculopathy from Peripheral Nerve Entrapment
A 45-year-old woman presents with a 3-week history of right lateral arm and forearm pain, described as burning and electric shock-like, with intermittent numbness in the right thumb and index finger. She works as a computer programmer, spending 8+ hours/day at a desk.
487 words, about 2 min4Fall Risk Assessment in an Older Adult with Parkinson's Disease
A 75-year-old man with Parkinson's disease (Hoehn and Yahr stage 3) is referred to PT due to two falls in the past 6 months. He lives with his wife in a two-story house.
476 words, about 2 min5Ethical Dilemma: Patient Refuses Recommended Discharge Destination
A 68-year-old man is recovering from a left middle cerebral artery stroke. He has right hemiparesis, neglect, and mild aphasia.
455 words, about 2 min