Injury Assessment

Injury Examination, Assessment & Diagnosis

Implementing systematic, evidence-based examinations and assessments to
formulate valid clinical diagnoses and determine patients’ plan of care

Evidence Based Diagnosis

Following an evidence-based model, the AT conducts examinations and assessments of injuries and illnesses to form
relevant related diagnoses. Evidence-based clinical decision-making relies on clinical expertise that integrates athletic
training knowledge and skills, clinical experience, current best evidence, clinical circumstances and patient and societal
values. As part of the examination, assessment and diagnosis process, the AT, with the understanding of the injury pathology
and any comorbidities of the affected individual, utilizes clinical acumen to obtain a thorough patient history, problem-solve
through confounding data, exclude and confirm varied presentations of injury and illness, and prioritize relevant examination,
assessment and diagnostic techniques. 

Continuous Reassessment

The AT documents clinical findings, diagnoses, counseling and referrals in accordance with established practices and in
compliance with federal, state and local laws. The AT continually assesses and reassesses the data required to confirm or
exclude the provisional diagnosis; determines if further physical examination and diagnostic testing are required; establishes a
final diagnosis with targeted treatment strategies; and refers to other healthcare professionals when necessary.

Other Domains of Practice

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