cardiopulmonary physical therapist Interview Questions and Answers

1. What is your experience with patients who have COPD?

   • Answer: I have extensive experience treating patients with COPD, focusing on airway clearance techniques (e.g., huffing, directed cough, autogenic drainage), breathing exercises (e.g., pursed-lip breathing, diaphragmatic breathing), and energy conservation strategies. I also incorporate exercise training, tailored to their individual capabilities, to improve functional capacity and quality of life. I'm familiar with various oxygen delivery methods and the importance of patient education in managing their condition effectively.

2. How do you assess a patient's respiratory status?

   • Answer: My assessment involves a thorough subjective history including current symptoms, medical history, and functional limitations. Objectively, I assess respiratory rate, rhythm, and depth; auscultate lung sounds for adventitious breath sounds; measure oxygen saturation (SpO2); and evaluate respiratory muscle strength (e.g., using a spirometer). I also assess the patient's cough effectiveness, sputum production, and overall exercise tolerance.

3. Explain your understanding of pulmonary rehabilitation.

   • Answer: Pulmonary rehabilitation is a multidisciplinary program aimed at improving the functional capacity and quality of life for individuals with chronic respiratory conditions. It involves exercise training (endurance, strength, and flexibility), education on disease management, breathing techniques, airway clearance, energy conservation, and psychosocial support. The program is individualized to meet the specific needs of each patient.

4. Describe your experience with mechanical ventilation.

   • Answer: I have experience working with patients on both invasive and non-invasive mechanical ventilation. This includes understanding ventilator settings, weaning protocols, and monitoring patients for complications. My role often involves assisting with mobilization and exercise while the patient is on ventilation and helping to facilitate the weaning process as medically appropriate.

5. How do you manage a patient experiencing dyspnea?

   • Answer: Management of dyspnea depends on the underlying cause. I would first assess the severity and nature of the dyspnea. Then I would implement strategies like breathing exercises (pursed-lip breathing, diaphragmatic breathing), positioning techniques (e.g., high-Fowler's position), and oxygen therapy. Patient education and relaxation techniques can also be helpful. For severe cases, I would collaborate with the medical team to address the underlying cause and possibly adjust medication.

6. What are your skills in airway clearance techniques?

   • Answer: I am proficient in various airway clearance techniques, including postural drainage, percussion, vibration, huffing, directed cough, and autogenic drainage. I assess each patient to determine the most appropriate techniques based on their individual needs and abilities. I also educate patients on how to perform these techniques independently at home.

7. Describe your experience with cardiac rehabilitation.

   • Answer: My experience in cardiac rehabilitation includes working with patients post-MI, post-surgery (CABG, valve repair/replacement), and those with heart failure. I design and implement individualized exercise programs focusing on improving cardiac function, strength, and endurance. I also provide education on risk factor modification, medication management, and lifestyle changes to promote long-term health.

8. How do you work with patients with cystic fibrosis?

   • Answer: Treatment for cystic fibrosis patients focuses on airway clearance, using techniques like high-frequency chest wall oscillation (HFCWO) and positive expiratory pressure (PEP) therapy in addition to those mentioned earlier. I collaborate with the multidisciplinary team, including respiratory therapists and pulmonologists, to manage their condition. Exercise is crucial to maintain function, though appropriately modified to avoid exacerbations.

9. Explain your understanding of the role of exercise in cardiopulmonary rehabilitation.

   • Answer: Exercise is a cornerstone of cardiopulmonary rehabilitation. It improves cardiovascular fitness, respiratory muscle strength, and overall functional capacity. It also enhances quality of life and reduces symptoms. Exercise programs are carefully tailored to the individual's capabilities and monitored closely to ensure safety and effectiveness.

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