Enhancing Clinical Reasoning: Effective Strategies for Clinicians

Course overview

Module 1: Scope and Analytical Processes of Clinical Reasoning This module will introduce the concept of "Noise" in professional judgment, including physiotherapy judgments. The purpose of clinical reasoning will be related to the scope of knowledge and reasoning required in practice. The analytical processes important to clinical reasoning will be discussed along with the range of clinical patterns used in practice. Module 2: Essential Categories of Clinical Reasoning Judgment: Part 1 This module covers key areas of clinical judgment (i.e. "Hypothesis Categories") that directly relate to the purpose of our interview questions and physical examination assessments. The hypothesis categories presented include: ; Activity and participation restriction and capability, Problem classification or physiotherapy diagnosis,, Impairments in body function or structure, nd Contributing factors to the development and maintenance of the patient's problem(s). Module 3: Essential Categories of Clinical Reasoning Judgment: Part 2 In this module the presentation of key areas of clinical judgment (i.e. "Hypothesis Categories") that directly relate to the purpose of our interview questions and physical examination assessments continues. The hypothesis categories presented in this module include Precautions and contraindications to physical examination and treatment, Management / treatment selection and progression (i.e. Procedural reasoning), and Prognosis. Module 4: Psychosocial-focused Reasoning: Understanding the Problem Behind the Person This module covers the assessment and reasoning related to potential psychosocial factors contributing to a patient's pain and/or disability experience. . A framework of information to listen for and explicitly screen is proposed along with suggestions for judging the relevance of potential psychosocial factors to a clinical presentation. Key issues in psychosocial management are highlighted. Module 5: Elements of Good Clinical Reasoning, Common Errors & Strategies to Minimise Errors This module covers the elements of all analytical thinking that also relate to clinical reasoning. The characteristics of good clinical reasoning are highlighted along with common errors in clinical reasoning and strategies to minimise errors.