What does the term "patient assessment" refer to?

The term "patient assessment" encompasses a comprehensive evaluation that includes various aspects of a patient's health and well-being. Specifically, it refers to the thorough examination of a patient's medical history, physical condition, and functional abilities.

This holistic approach allows healthcare professionals to gain insight into the patient's overall health status, identify any issues that may affect their treatment, and establish a baseline for ongoing care. Medical history provides context about previous illnesses, surgeries, medications, and other pertinent information that could influence the current condition. The assessment of the physical condition involves evaluating vital signs, mobility, strength, and any present injuries or limitations. Lastly, functional abilities assess how well the patient can perform daily activities, which is crucial for developing effective treatment plans.

While other factors such as lifestyle choices, emotional health, and family background can also provide valuable information about a patient, they are typically components of a more specific assessment rather than the core focus of a patient assessment as defined in the context of physical therapy and healthcare.