Inclusion of Exercise Prescription in Solid Organ Transplant in Physical Therapy Curricula Across Canadian Universities: A National Survey

Abstract

Purpose: This study evaluated the extent of education about exercise prescription for patients with solid organ transplant (SOT) provided in physical therapy (PT) entry-level programmes across Canadian universities. The nature (content being taught), delivery (modes used to disseminate information), time dedicated to the topic, and opinions of educators were explored. Method: A cross-sectional survey was emailed to 36 educators at Canadian universities. The survey questions related to the nature, delivery, and time dedicated to SOT exercise prescription, and the opinions of educators. Results: The response rate was 93%. Educators reported that lung and heart transplantation were taught the most, followed by kidney and liver, with little to no emphasis on pancreas transplants. This material was mainly taught at the graduate level and as part of cardiopulmonary courses with minimal emphasis on practical skills. Aerobic exercise is the main exercise prescription being taught. The main barrier to offering more SOT prescription education experienced by educators was the lack of available class time. Conclusions: SOT exercise prescription is not extensively covered in PT curricula and does not include all organ groups to the same extent. Students have few practical opportunities, which are important to gain the abilities and confidence to treat this population. The development of a continuing education course could promote greater knowledge.