Teach-back is used to verify patient understanding by asking the patient to explain back in their own words.

• A. Teach-back is used to verify patient understanding by asking the patient to explain back in their own words
• B. Teach-back is a test that schedules follow-up visits
• C. Teach-back is used to assess caregiver knowledge only
• D. Teach-back is used to document consent only

Answer: (A)

Teach-back is a communication technique that checks understanding by asking the patient to explain the instructions back in their own words. In physical therapy, after you’ve given guidance on a home exercise program, safety precautions, or activity modifications, you prompt the patient to describe what they will do and why. If they can restate it clearly, you gain confidence that the message was understood and you can proceed; if not, you re-teach using plain language, visual cues, or demonstrations until it’s clear. This approach directly supports accurate adherence, safer exercise performance, and effective patient education.

This isn’t about scheduling follow-up visits, assessing caregiver knowledge, or documenting consent—those are separate tasks. Teach-back focuses on ensuring the patient truly understands the plan.