Which statement best describes the Systems Review in the PT process?

• A. It gathers objective information about the specific body systems.
• B. It replaces the patient history.
• C. It is only used to determine treatment plans.
• D. It only involves imaging studies.

Answer: (A)

The Systems Review is a quick, standardized screen of the major body systems to identify signs that may affect how evaluation and treatment proceed. It involves brief, objective checks across the cardiovascular/pulmonary, integumentary, musculoskeletal, and neuromuscular systems, plus an assessment of communication, affect, and learning style. This step gathers observable information about how the body is functioning, helping to flag any red flags and guiding what needs closer evaluation or safety precautions. It does not replace the patient history, which captures symptoms and prior conditions, and it isn’t used solely to determine treatment plans or to focus only on imaging studies—the imaging part comes later if indicated during the diagnostic process.