Pharmacology Essentials

Credit

Speaker

Terry Rzepkowski, DPT, MS, BS Related seminars and products

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Terry L. Rzepkowski, DPT, MS, BS, is a Doctor of Physical Therapy with specialization in orthopedic physical therapy. Throughout his 40+ year career, he has specialized in orthopedic roles, total joint replacement surgery, sports medicine, musculoskeletal outpatient rehab, and as an independent private practitioner. A professor in the health science department for Nova Southeastern University, Terry provides instruction in anatomy, biomechanics, kinesiology, and neuro anatomy. Terry’s current clinical role as a home care physical therapist focuses exclusively on orthopedic surgical patients, which keeps Dr. Rzepkowski abreast of the latest techniques and protocols used in joint care rehab. As a sought-after presenter, he enjoys sharing his advanced orthopedic knowledge with interdisciplinary audiences around the country.
 

Speaker Disclosures:
Financial: Terry Rzepkowski has employment relationships with Nova Southeastern University, CORA Physical Therapy, Presbyterian College, National healthcare Licensing Solutions, Inc., Varsity Tutors, and PTCE. He receives compensation as a national presenter. Terry Rzepkowski receives a speaking honorarium and recording royalties from PESI, Inc. He has no relevant financial relationships with ineligible organizations.
Non-financial: Terry Rzepkowski is a member of the APTA.

 

 

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Objectives

1. Assess the functional impact of common medications on rehabilitation interventions, as measured by improved patient outcomes in therapy sessions. (Yoshimura, 2022) 
2. Identify medication-related functional implications in geriatric rehabilitation patients, leading to more effective treatment planning and interventions. (Kose, 2022)
3. Evaluate and adapt therapy approaches to address medication-induced functional consequences, resulting in enhanced patient participation and improved functional outcomes. (Keijsers, 2021)

Outline

Principles of Pharmacology: Why Pharmacology Matters for Rehab Professionals

• Patient safety and maximizing therapeutic intervention outcomes.
• Pharmacodynamics - Mechanism of action and therapeutic effects
• Drug Interactions - Synergistic, additive, and antagonistic effects

Common Medications and Their Impact on Rehabilitation

• Cardiovascular Medications - Beta blockers, diuretics, ACE inhibitors, etc.
• Effects on heart rate, blood pressure, and endurance
• Pain Management - Opioids, NSAIDs, muscle relaxants, etc.
• Considerations in pain assessment and intervention
• Neuromuscular Agents - Antiepileptics, dopaminergic agents for Parkinson's, etc.
• Impacts on coordination, balance, and muscle tone
• Psychotropic Medications - Antidepressants, antipsychotics, anxiolytics, etc.
• Implications for cognition, mood, and behavior during therapy
• Respiratory Medications - Bronchodilators, corticosteroids, etc.
• Influence on breathing patterns, endurance, and aerobic capacity

Special Considerations in Geriatric Population

• Polypharmacy – prevalence
• Strategies to address and mitigate polypharmacy.
• Age-related changes: altered metabolism and excretion.
• Sensitivity to medications and side effects

Recognizing Medication-Induced Changes: Medications Leading to Adverse Effects Relevant to Rehabilitation

• Assessment and management strategies
• Dizziness, Vertigo, and Falls
• Fatigue and Sedation
• Impact on participation and endurance in therapy
• Modifications and precautions
• Adjustments in therapy approach and environment

Patient Education and Collaboration

• Empowering Patients
  • Importance of medication adherence
  • Recognizing side effects and when to seek medical advice

The Interdisciplinary Approach: Collaboration with Other Healthcare Professionals

• Value of collaboration between PT, OT, and other allied health professionals

Target Audience

• Athletic trainers
• Chiropractors
• Exercise Physiologists
• Occupational Therapists
• Occupational Therapy Assistants
• Physical Therapists
• Physical Therapy Assistants
• Physicians
• Podiatrists
• Strength and Conditioning Coaches
• Massage Therapists
• Other Rehabilitation and Fitness Professionals