Publications by authors named "Paula A DiBiasio"

Background: Physical therapists (PTs) work in diverse communities with individuals whose identities and beliefs may differ significantly from their own. Academic institutions must include intentional curriculum aimed at graduating PTs who can skillfully navigate intercultural encounters. Being prepared to engage with difference and demonstrate skills related to intercultural competencies (ICC) will prepare entry-level PTs to provide individualized, high-quality care.

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Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between two measures of cultural competence (CC), one more widely used, the other designed for healthcare students. It was hypothesized that there would be strong correlations allowing educators to forgo one measure for the other based on utility, resources, and sustainability.

Design: Exploratory, cross sectional design SETTING: One US Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) academic program.

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Background: The Section on Pediatrics (SoP) convened an Education Summit in July 2012 to examine, discuss, and respond to documented inconsistencies and challenges in teaching pediatric physical therapy (PT) content in entry-level professional education programs. Despite previous attempts by the SoP to provide guidance around teaching pediatric PT, variability continued to be extensive across programs.

Key Points: This article presents the core competencies developed out of the Summit to inform pediatric content in the entry-level PT curriculum.

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Purpose: The purpose of this case report is to determine the effects of exercise training using body weight-supported treadmill walking (BWSTW) with an 18-year-old male diagnosed with Cerebral palsy (CP) who was non-ambulatory and not receiving physical therapy.

Case Description: Outcome measures included the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL), the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI), heart rate (HR), rate of perceived exertion, 3-minute walk test and physiological cost index (PCI). BWSTW sessions took place twice a week for 6 weeks with a reduction of approximately 40% of the patient's weight.

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