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Hawaii PT Jurisprudence study materials
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Hawaii PT Jurisprudence practice questions

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Question 1Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

Under Hawaii law, which entity holds the statutory authority to license and discipline physical therapists practicing in the State of Hawaii?

  1. The University of Hawaii system
  2. The Department of Health
  3. The Board of Physical Therapy Correct answer.
  4. The Hawaii Physical Therapy Association

Explanation

Hawaii's physical therapy practice act establishes the Board of Physical Therapy within the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs to license and discipline practitioners. The Board, not a professional association or the health department, carries this regulatory authority.

Question 2Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

A physical therapist licensed in another state moves to Hawaii and wishes to treat patients. What is required before the therapist may lawfully practice in Hawaii?

  1. Registration with a local hospital credentialing office
  2. Nothing, because interstate reciprocity is automatic
  3. A Hawaii license issued by the Board of Physical Therapy Correct answer.
  4. Only a letter of good standing from the prior state

Explanation

Hawaii requires a license issued by its own Board of Physical Therapy before a person may practice physical therapy in the state. A license from another jurisdiction does not by itself confer Hawaii practice authority.

Question 3Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

Which conduct would most clearly fall within the Board's definition of unprofessional conduct for a Hawaii physical therapist?

  1. Declining a patient assignment outside the therapist's competence
  2. Practicing while impaired by alcohol Correct answer.
  3. Documenting treatment in an electronic record
  4. Referring a patient to a physician for a second opinion

Explanation

Hawaii's practice act and administrative rules identify practicing while impaired as a ground for discipline. Declining work beyond one's competence, documenting care, and making appropriate referrals are all consistent with professional standards.

Question 4Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

In Hawaii, the term 'physical therapist assistant' refers to a person who:

  1. holds only a temporary student status
  2. performs only administrative and clerical duties
  3. is licensed to provide physical therapy services under the direction of a physical therapist Correct answer.
  4. may practice independently without supervision

Explanation

Hawaii licenses physical therapist assistants to deliver physical therapy interventions under the direction and supervision of a licensed physical therapist. They do not practice independently and are not limited to clerical work.

Question 5Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

A Hawaii physical therapist is completing continuing competence requirements for license renewal. Which statement best reflects the Board's expectation?

  1. Any hobby-related course counts equally
  2. Continuing education must relate to the practice of physical therapy Correct answer.
  3. Continuing education is only required after a disciplinary action
  4. Renewal requires no continuing competence at all

Explanation

Hawaii's rules require licensees to complete continuing competence activities that are relevant to the practice of physical therapy. Unrelated coursework does not satisfy the requirement, and the obligation applies to all renewing licensees.

Question 6Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

Which of the following is the most accurate description of the scope of physical therapy practice under Hawaii law?

  1. It includes prescribing controlled substances
  2. It includes evaluation, treatment, and prevention of physical impairments and disabilities Correct answer.
  3. It excludes all forms of patient education
  4. It is limited strictly to massage and modality application

Explanation

Hawaii defines physical therapy broadly to encompass examination, evaluation, treatment, and prevention of physical impairment and disability. It is not confined to passive modalities, does not include prescribing medication, and expressly includes patient education.

Question 7Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

A physical therapist in Hawaii wishes to use the title 'Doctor of Physical Therapy' in advertising. Under Board rules, this is permissible when the therapist:

  1. has earned a doctoral degree in physical therapy and does not misrepresent licensure status Correct answer.
  2. has completed any bachelor's degree
  3. uses the title only in informal conversation
  4. obtains verbal permission from a colleague

Explanation

Hawaii permits use of earned academic doctoral titles provided the therapist holds the relevant degree and does not mislead the public about licensure or credentials. The title must accurately reflect the degree earned.

Question 8Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

Which individual would be required to hold a Hawaii physical therapist license?

  1. A person who evaluates and treats patients for a fee as a physical therapist Correct answer.
  2. A vendor who delivers therapy equipment
  3. A student observing treatment as part of a clinical rotation
  4. A volunteer who only schedules appointments

Explanation

Hawaii requires licensure for anyone who practices or offers to practice physical therapy, including providing evaluation and treatment for compensation. Students in supervised rotations, clerical volunteers, and equipment vendors are not practicing physical therapy.

Question 9Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

A Hawaii physical therapist delegates a patient intervention to a physical therapist assistant. According to Board rules, the supervising physical therapist retains responsibility for:

  1. only the billing documentation
  2. the overall plan of care and the supervision of delegated services Correct answer.
  3. the assistant's personal licensure renewal
  4. nothing once the task is delegated

Explanation

Under Hawaii's supervision framework, the physical therapist develops and remains responsible for the plan of care and for appropriately supervising services delegated to an assistant. Delegation does not transfer clinical accountability to the assistant.

Question 10Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

A patient asks a Hawaii physical therapist to disclose treatment records. Which statement best reflects the therapist's obligations under Hawaii law?

  1. Records must always be destroyed after each visit
  2. Records may be released freely to any family member who asks
  3. Therapist notes are never part of the patient record
  4. Confidentiality applies, with disclosure permitted only as authorized by the patient or required by law Correct answer.

Explanation

Hawaii law imposes a duty to protect patient confidentiality, permitting disclosure when the patient authorizes it or when law mandates it. Records remain part of the clinical documentation and cannot be released indiscriminately.

Question 11Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

A Hawaii licensee fails to renew a license and continues treating patients. This conduct is best characterized as:

  1. permitted if the lapse is shorter than one year
  2. lawful if the therapist posts a notice in the clinic
  3. practicing without a valid license, subject to disciplinary action Correct answer.
  4. acceptable because renewal is a clerical formality

Explanation

Practicing physical therapy requires a current, valid Hawaii license; treating patients after expiration constitutes unlicensed practice and exposes the licensee to discipline. A lapse in renewal does not create a grace period for continued treatment.

Question 12Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

Which action by a Hawaii physical therapist would most likely constitute a violation related to patient abandonment?

  1. Referring a patient to another provider with documentation
  2. Discharging a patient after goals are met with appropriate notice
  3. Declining a new patient when the caseload is full
  4. Terminating care without notice when the patient still needs services Correct answer.

Explanation

Abandonment occurs when a therapist unilaterally ends the professional relationship without reasonable notice or arrangements for continued care when services are still needed. Proper discharge and documented referral are appropriate practices.

Question 13Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

Under Hawaii rules, the physical therapy record for a patient should include which of the following?

  1. Only the physician's referral
  2. Only billing codes
  3. Only the initial evaluation
  4. Objective findings, treatment provided, and the patient's response to care Correct answer.

Explanation

Hawaii's documentation expectations require a record that reflects the evaluation, the interventions delivered, and the patient's response to treatment. Records limited to billing or referral information are insufficient for clinical and legal purposes.

Question 14Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

A Hawaii physical therapist wants to provide services via telehealth. Which principle governs this practice?

  1. The therapist must meet the same standards of care and licensure requirements as in-person care Correct answer.
  2. Only out-of-state therapists may use telehealth
  3. Telehealth is prohibited for all physical therapy services
  4. Telehealth requires no documentation

Explanation

Hawaii expects telehealth to be delivered consistent with the same licensure, standard-of-care, and documentation obligations that apply to in-person physical therapy. Telehealth does not relax those requirements.

Question 15Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

A physical therapist assistant in Hawaii is asked to perform an initial evaluation. Under the practice act, the assistant should:

  1. perform the evaluation only if the patient consents
  2. perform the evaluation and sign it independently
  3. delegate the evaluation to an aide
  4. decline, because initial evaluation is reserved to the physical therapist Correct answer.

Explanation

Hawaii reserves initial examination and evaluation, and the development of the plan of care, to the licensed physical therapist. Assistants implement treatment under direction and cannot independently perform initial evaluations.

Question 16Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

Which situation would most likely require a Hawaii physical therapist to report to the Board?

  1. A colleague who is practicing with a lapsed license Correct answer.
  2. A colleague who refers patients appropriately
  3. A colleague who documents care promptly
  4. A colleague who attends continuing education

Explanation

Hawaii's regulatory scheme supports reporting of conduct that threatens patient safety or involves unlicensed practice, such as treating patients with a lapsed license. Routine professional activities are not reportable events.

Question 17Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

A Hawaii physical therapist receives a subpoena for a patient's records in litigation. The most appropriate response is to:

  1. ignore the subpoena entirely
  2. destroy the records to avoid disclosure
  3. release records in accordance with legal process and applicable confidentiality protections Correct answer.
  4. release records to any party who requests them

Explanation

When faced with legal process, the therapist should respond in a manner consistent with the subpoena and Hawaii confidentiality protections, which may include verifying authorization or seeking guidance. Ignoring the subpoena or destroying records is improper.

Question 18Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

A Hawaii physical therapist wishes to supervise a physical therapist assistant. Which statement best describes the required supervisory relationship?

  1. Supervision may be entirely absent if the assistant is experienced
  2. Supervision is required only for the first patient of the day
  3. Supervision may be delegated to an unlicensed aide
  4. The physical therapist must provide supervision consistent with the patient's needs and Board requirements Correct answer.

Explanation

Hawaii requires that assistants be supervised by a physical therapist, with the intensity of supervision matched to patient needs and Board rules. Supervision cannot be delegated to unlicensed personnel or waived based on experience.

Question 19Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

Which of the following best describes how Hawaii's Board of Physical Therapy handles complaints against licensees?

  1. Complaints may only be filed by physicians
  2. Complaints are automatically dismissed without review
  3. Complaints are adjudicated by the professional association
  4. Complaints are reviewed and may lead to investigation and disciplinary proceedings Correct answer.

Explanation

The Board receives and reviews complaints, may investigate, and can initiate disciplinary proceedings when warranted. Complaints are not limited to physicians, and the Board rather than a private association adjudicates them.

Question 20Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

A Hawaii physical therapist is employed by a physician-owned clinic. Which statement best reflects the therapist's professional obligations?

  1. The therapist exercises independent professional judgment within the plan of care Correct answer.
  2. The therapist must follow all physician orders regardless of clinical judgment
  3. The therapist may practice without a license while employed by a physician
  4. The therapist's documentation is owned solely by the physician

Explanation

Hawaii licensees are expected to exercise independent professional judgment and are accountable for their own clinical decisions, even within a physician-owned practice. Employment does not suspend licensure or documentation duties.

Question 21Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

A Hawaii physical therapist assistant observes a supervising therapist directing care that appears unsafe. According to professional and regulatory expectations, the assistant should:

  1. document the concern only in a personal notebook
  2. follow the direction without comment
  3. raise the concern through appropriate channels, including reporting if warranted Correct answer.
  4. immediately resign and take no further action

Explanation

Licensees and assistants share an obligation to protect patient safety, which includes raising concerns through appropriate supervisory or regulatory channels when care appears unsafe. Silence, resignation without action, or private notes alone do not fulfill that duty.

Question 22Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

A Hawaii licensee is convicted of a crime unrelated to physical therapy. Which statement best reflects the Board's authority?

  1. The Board has no authority over conduct outside clinical practice
  2. The Board may consider the conviction in determining whether discipline is warranted Correct answer.
  3. The Board may only act if the patient complains
  4. The conviction automatically voids the license with no hearing

Explanation

Hawaii's practice act allows the Board to consider certain criminal convictions when evaluating fitness to practice and determining whether discipline is appropriate. Action is not automatic, and the Board is not limited to patient-initiated complaints.

Question 23Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

A Hawaii physical therapist wants to advertise a specialty certification. To comply with Board rules, the advertisement should:

  1. use superlatives such as 'best therapist in Hawaii'
  2. accurately represent the certification held and avoid misleading claims Correct answer.
  3. omit all information about credentials
  4. claim board certification in any specialty regardless of actual credentials

Explanation

Hawaii advertising rules prohibit false or misleading representations, so advertised credentials must accurately reflect certifications actually held. Superlative or unverifiable claims risk violating those standards.

Question 24Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

A patient receiving physical therapy in Hawaii refuses a recommended intervention. Which response best reflects the therapist's legal and ethical obligations?

  1. Perform the intervention anyway because it was recommended
  2. Terminate the relationship immediately without discussion
  3. Respect the patient's decision, document the refusal, and discuss alternatives and risks Correct answer.
  4. Conceal the refusal from the record

Explanation

Hawaii practice standards recognize the patient's right to make informed decisions about care, requiring the therapist to document the refusal and discuss alternatives and risks. Coercing treatment or abandoning the patient is inappropriate.

Question 25Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

A Hawaii physical therapist is asked to treat a patient outside the therapist's documented area of competence. The most appropriate action is to:

  1. treat the patient without additional preparation
  2. ask an aide to perform the treatment
  3. delegate the decision to the patient
  4. obtain appropriate training or refer the patient to a qualified provider Correct answer.

Explanation

Hawaii licensees are expected to practice within their competence; when a patient's needs exceed that competence, the therapist should obtain additional training or refer to a qualified provider. Delegating to unqualified personnel or proceeding unprepared is inconsistent with that duty.

Question 26Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

Under Hawaii law, which entity holds the legal authority to adopt rules that implement the Physical Therapy Practice Act?

  1. The Department of Health
  2. The Board of Physical Therapy Correct answer.
  3. The Hawaii Medical Board
  4. The Governor's office

Explanation

The Hawaii Physical Therapy Practice Act establishes the Board of Physical Therapy and authorizes it to adopt administrative rules necessary to carry out the Act. The Department of Health and the Hawaii Medical Board regulate other areas and do not adopt physical therapy practice rules.

Question 27Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

A Hawaii physical therapist assistant (PTA) must work under the supervision of a physical therapist. Which statement best describes the required supervision under Hawaii rules?

  1. The supervising therapist must be available for consultation and periodically review the PTA's work. Correct answer.
  2. The supervising therapist must provide on-site supervision for all treatments.
  3. The supervising therapist must co-sign every note written by the PTA.
  4. The supervising therapist must be on the premises at all times.

Explanation

Hawaii rules require that a PTA practice under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist, who must be accessible for consultation and must periodically review the care provided. Continuous on-site presence or co-signing every note is not required by the rules.

Question 28Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

Which of the following is a continuing competence requirement for renewal of a Hawaii physical therapist license?

  1. Completion of a specified number of continuing education hours every renewal cycle Correct answer.
  2. Obtaining a physician's attestation of competence
  3. Passing a jurisprudence examination each year
  4. Submitting a new fingerprint card with every renewal

Explanation

Hawaii requires physical therapists to complete continuing education hours during each renewal cycle as a condition of license renewal. Jurisprudence exams, new fingerprints, and physician attestations are not routine renewal requirements.

Question 29Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

A Hawaii physical therapist is charged with unprofessional conduct. Which of the following best describes the Board's disciplinary authority?

  1. The Board may only issue a warning letter.
  2. The Board must refer all matters to criminal court.
  3. The Board may fine the licensee but cannot restrict practice.
  4. The Board may revoke, suspend, or place conditions on a license. Correct answer.

Explanation

The Board of Physical Therapy has authority to impose a range of disciplinary actions, including revocation, suspension, probation, and conditions on practice. It is not limited to warnings or fines and does not have to refer every matter for criminal prosecution.

Question 30Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

Under Hawaii rules, which of the following is required for a physical therapist to perform dry needling?

  1. A separate acupuncture license issued by the Hawaii Medical Board
  2. Completion of a Board-approved dry needling course and compliance with any certification requirements Correct answer.
  3. Nothing beyond the physical therapy license
  4. Supervision by a physician at all times

Explanation

Hawaii requires physical therapists who perform dry needling to complete specific Board-approved training and to meet any certification or competency requirements set by the Board. A separate acupuncture license or continuous physician supervision is not required.

Question 31Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

A Hawaii physical therapist wants to use a shortened title in a professional listing. Which abbreviation is authorized for use by a licensed physical therapist?

  1. P.Tech.
  2. P.T.A.
  3. P.T.T.
  4. P.T. Correct answer.

Explanation

Hawaii law recognizes 'PT' or 'P.T.' as the authorized abbreviation for a physical therapist. 'PTA' refers to a physical therapist assistant, and the other abbreviations are not recognized titles under the practice act.

Question 32Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

Which of the following is a ground for disciplinary action against a Hawaii physical therapist license under the practice act?

  1. Failing to maintain patient records for the required period Correct answer.
  2. Treating a patient without a physician's referral
  3. Using telehealth to deliver services
  4. Practicing in a specialty area after obtaining additional certification

Explanation

Hawaii law requires physical therapists to maintain patient records for a specified period, and failing to do so is a basis for discipline. Practicing in a specialty after certification, treating without a referral when permitted, and using telehealth are not themselves grounds for discipline.

Question 33Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

A Hawaii physical therapist is considering whether a particular intervention falls within the scope of physical therapy practice. Which source provides the most authoritative definition of that scope?

  1. The Hawaii Physical Therapy Practice Act and Board rules Correct answer.
  2. The American Physical Therapy Association's Guide to Physical Therapist Practice
  3. The Joint Commission accreditation standards
  4. The Medicare Benefit Policy Manual

Explanation

The scope of physical therapy practice in Hawaii is defined by the state's Physical Therapy Practice Act and the administrative rules adopted by the Board. National practice guidelines and federal or accreditation standards do not determine state legal scope.

Question 34Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

Under Hawaii rules, which of the following best describes the required response when a physical therapist receives a request from the Board for patient records during an investigation?

  1. The therapist may ignore the request if the patient objects.
  2. The therapist must obtain a court order before releasing records to the Board.
  3. The therapist may provide only a summary of the records.
  4. The therapist must provide the records as requested, maintaining confidentiality. Correct answer.

Explanation

Licensees are required to cooperate with Board investigations, which includes providing patient records upon request while safeguarding confidentiality. A court order is not required for the Board's investigative request, and patient objection does not excuse compliance.

Question 35Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

A Hawaii physical therapist assistant is completing documentation for a treatment session. Which statement best reflects the documentation responsibility under Hawaii rules?

  1. The PTA must have the patient sign the note.
  2. The PTA is prohibited from documenting any aspect of care.
  3. The PTA may document the services provided and the supervising therapist reviews and co-signs as required. Correct answer.
  4. The PTA may document only subjective findings.

Explanation

Hawaii rules allow the PTA to document the services they provide, with the supervising physical therapist responsible for review and any required co-signature. The PTA is not limited to subjective findings, is not prohibited from documenting, and patient signature is not a standard requirement.

Question 36Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

Which of the following best describes the Hawaii Board of Physical Therapy's role in approving continuing education providers?

  1. The Board recognizes certain approved providers or accepts courses approved by other recognized entities. Correct answer.
  2. The Board does not review or approve continuing education providers.
  3. The Board requires providers to be approved by the Hawaii Medical Board.
  4. The Board approves all continuing education providers directly.

Explanation

Hawaii rules allow continuing education credit for courses approved by the Board or by other recognized approval bodies. The Board does not directly approve every provider, nor does it require approval by the Hawaii Medical Board.

Question 37Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

A Hawaii physical therapist suspects that a colleague is practicing while impaired. According to the practice act, which action is most consistent with the therapist's professional and legal obligations?

  1. Report the concern to the Board of Physical Therapy. Correct answer.
  2. Confront the colleague privately and take no further action.
  3. Discuss the concern with patients to gather more information.
  4. Report the concern only if patient harm occurs.

Explanation

Hawaii law imposes a duty on licensees to report to the Board any conduct that appears to violate the practice act, including impairment that may affect patient safety. Private confrontation or waiting for harm does not satisfy the reporting obligation, and discussing it with patients breaches confidentiality.

Question 38Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

Under Hawaii rules, a physical therapist may perform electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies only if the therapist has:

  1. Obtained a certificate from the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties
  2. Supervision by a neurologist for each procedure
  3. A separate physician assistant license
  4. Completed specific education and training recognized by the Board Correct answer.

Explanation

Hawaii allows physical therapists to perform EMG and nerve conduction studies if they have completed the education and training required by Board rules. A separate physician assistant license, specialty board certificate, or neurologist supervision is not mandated by the practice act.

Question 39Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

Which of the following is true regarding the licensure of physical therapist assistants in Hawaii?

  1. PTAs are not required to be licensed.
  2. PTAs are licensed by the Department of Health.
  3. PTAs must be licensed by the Board and practice under a physical therapist's supervision. Correct answer.
  4. PTAs may practice independently after five years of experience.

Explanation

Hawaii requires physical therapist assistants to be licensed by the Board of Physical Therapy and to work under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist. They cannot practice independently, and the Department of Health does not license PTAs.

Question 40Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

A Hawaii physical therapist is reviewing the practice act's provisions on advertising. Which statement is most accurate?

  1. Advertising must be free from false, deceptive, or misleading claims. Correct answer.
  2. Only the Board may advertise physical therapy services.
  3. Advertising may include unsubstantiated claims if they are common in the profession.
  4. Advertising is prohibited for physical therapy services.

Explanation

Hawaii law prohibits false, deceptive, or misleading advertising by licensees. Advertising physical therapy services is permitted, but claims must be truthful and not misleading, and unsubstantiated claims are not allowed simply because they are common.

Question 41Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

When a Hawaii physical therapist terminates the professional relationship with a patient, which action best fulfills the therapist's ethical and legal obligations?

  1. Terminate without providing records to the patient.
  2. Terminate only after the patient misses two appointments.
  3. Terminate immediately without explanation.
  4. Provide the patient with reasonable notice and necessary information for continuity of care. Correct answer.

Explanation

Hawaii rules require that when a therapist terminates care, the patient receives reasonable notice and assistance with continuity of care to avoid abandonment. Immediate termination without explanation or withholding records would violate these obligations.

Question 42Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

Which of the following best describes the Hawaii Board of Physical Therapy's authority regarding license reinstatement after revocation?

  1. The Board may reinstate a revoked license according to law and Board rules. Correct answer.
  2. The Board has no authority to reinstate a revoked license.
  3. Reinstatement is automatic after one year.
  4. Reinstatement requires approval by the Governor.

Explanation

The Board has the authority to consider and grant reinstatement of a revoked license in accordance with statutory criteria and Board rules. Reinstatement is not automatic and does not require gubernatorial approval.

Question 43Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

A Hawaii physical therapist is asked to supervise a student completing a clinical internship. Which statement best reflects the therapist's responsibility?

  1. The student may practice independently under the therapist's license.
  2. The student must hold a temporary license to participate.
  3. The supervising therapist retains responsibility for patient care and must ensure appropriate supervision. Correct answer.
  4. The supervising therapist must be on vacation during the internship.

Explanation

A physical therapist supervising a student must ensure the student is appropriately supervised and that the therapist remains responsible for patient care. Students do not practice independently under the therapist's license, and temporary licensure is not a standard requirement for clinical internships.

Question 44Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

Under Hawaii law, which of the following is a permissible method for a physical therapist to obtain informed consent before treatment?

  1. Obtaining verbal consent documented in the record Correct answer.
  2. Obtaining consent from a neighbor
  3. Assuming consent because the patient scheduled the appointment
  4. Proceeding without consent if the treatment is low risk

Explanation

Informed consent may be obtained verbally and documented in the patient record, provided the patient is properly informed of the treatment, risks, and alternatives. Consent cannot be assumed from scheduling, obtained from a neighbor without legal authority, or omitted based on risk level.

Question 45Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

Which of the following best describes the Hawaii Board of Physical Therapy's rule regarding the number of physical therapist assistants a physical therapist may supervise?

  1. PTAs may supervise other PTAs.
  2. A therapist may supervise only one PTA at a time.
  3. There is no limit on the number of PTAs a therapist may supervise.
  4. The Board sets a specific ratio of supervising therapists to PTAs. Correct answer.

Explanation

Hawaii rules establish a specific supervision ratio to ensure adequate oversight of physical therapist assistants. There is a limit, and PTAs do not supervise other PTAs.

Question 46Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

A Hawaii physical therapist is considering using a new modality that is not explicitly mentioned in the practice act. Which statement best describes how the Board would likely evaluate its use?

  1. The modality may be used if it falls within the defined scope of physical therapy and is within the therapist's competence. Correct answer.
  2. The modality requires prior approval from the Board for each patient.
  3. The modality is prohibited because it is not listed in the statute.
  4. The modality may be used only with a physician's prescription.

Explanation

Hawaii's practice act defines physical therapy broadly, allowing the use of interventions that fall within that scope and the therapist's competence, even if not specifically listed. Prior Board approval for each patient or a physician's prescription is not generally required.

Question 47Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

Which of the following is a required element of the patient record under Hawaii physical therapy rules?

  1. The patient's marital status
  2. The patient's treatment plan Correct answer.
  3. The patient's occupation
  4. The patient's insurance provider

Explanation

Hawaii rules require the patient record to include the treatment plan, among other elements such as evaluation findings and progress notes. Occupation, marital status, and insurance provider are not uniformly required elements of the clinical record.

Question 48Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

A Hawaii physical therapist assistant is asked to perform an initial evaluation. Which statement best reflects the legal restriction?

  1. The PTA may perform the initial evaluation after five years of experience.
  2. The PTA may not perform the initial evaluation; it must be performed by the physical therapist. Correct answer.
  3. The PTA may perform the initial evaluation if the supervising therapist is on site.
  4. The PTA may perform the initial evaluation if the patient signs a waiver.

Explanation

Under Hawaii law, the initial evaluation must be performed by a licensed physical therapist. A PTA may not perform the initial evaluation regardless of supervision, patient waiver, or experience.

Question 49Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

Which of the following best describes the Hawaii Board of Physical Therapy's requirement for licensure by endorsement for a physical therapist licensed in another state?

  1. The applicant is automatically licensed without review.
  2. The applicant must practice under a temporary permit indefinitely.
  3. The applicant must meet Hawaii's licensure requirements and provide verification of the out-of-state license. Correct answer.
  4. The applicant must retake the national physical therapy examination.

Explanation

Hawaii allows licensure by endorsement for therapists licensed in other jurisdictions, provided they meet Hawaii's requirements and submit verification of their license. Automatic licensure without review and indefinite temporary practice are not permitted.

Question 50Hawaii Statutes and Administrative Rules Governing Physical Therapy

A Hawaii physical therapist is planning to close a practice. Which action best complies with record retention requirements?

  1. Destroy all records immediately upon closure.
  2. Transfer records to another provider without patient notice.
  3. Send records to the Board for permanent storage.
  4. Retain records for the required period and provide patients access or notice regarding record availability. Correct answer.

Explanation

Hawaii rules require records to be retained for a specified period, and patients must be able to access their records or receive notice about where records will be available after closure. Immediate destruction or transfer without notice does not comply.