D.C. Mun. Regs. tit. 17, r. 17-10404

Current through Register Vol. 71, No. 49, December 6, 2024

Rule 17-10404 - SCOPE OF PRACTICE

10404.1

An athletic trainer may, under the general supervision of a physician who has issued any written order, protocol or recommendation, perform treatment and rehabilitation of an athletic injury that is within the professional and educational ability of that athletic trainer, which may include but is not limited to:

(a) Coordinating or administering a treatment or rehabilitation plan, assessing progress, and discharging based on their functional status for the postoperative, acute, subacute, and chronic injury or medical condition of a patient;

(b) Providing treatment or rehabilitation by utilizing physical modalities of heat, cold, light, massage, traction, water, air, electric stimulation, sound, or mechanical, therapeutic and post rehabilitative exercise; or

(c) Using appropriate preventative or supportive devices to assist in the recovery or prevention of injury or illness.

10404.2

An athletic trainer may provide immediate and emergency care of athletic injuries, including common emergency medical situation, which may include, but is not limited to, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), an automated external defibrillator (AED), spinal stabilization techniques, standardized testing for head-related injuries, or making referrals for follow-up care.

10404.3

An athletic trainer may provide education, guidance, or counseling regarding athletic training and the prevention, care, and treatment of athletic injuries. He or she may also assess and promote awareness and education concerning issues such as, but not limited to, risks of illness or injury (orthopedic, neurological, systemic), environmental stress, nutrition, equipment and facilities, and general health and well-being.

10404.4

An athletic trainer may organize and administer athletic training programs and related services.

10404.5

An athletic trainer is not authorized to:

(a) Render a medical diagnosis or opinion regarding a physical disability;

(b) Use x-rays, radium, or electricity for cauterization or surgery;

(c) Treatment of rehabilitation of neurologic injuries, conditions or disease other than the preventive and emergency medical treatment authorized by Subsections 10404.1; or

(d) The expansion of treatment beyond the determination of the supervising physician.

D.C. Mun. Regs. tit. 17, r. 17-10404

Final Rulemaking published at 67 DCR 9966 (8/21/2020)