Caring in physical therapy practice:Exploring Locsin’s ‘Technological Competency as Caring in Nursing’

Caring demonstrates compassionate care for others through the process of “knowing person as caring” from the theoretical lens of Technological Competency as Caring in Nursing (TCCN). Physical therapists respect the individual needs and values of patients and builds deep relationships with patients and their families. In this process, it is essential to respect the dignity and humanity of the other person. This discussion paper aims to 1) extract the necessary elements of Locsin’s TCCN theory from a physical therapy practice perspective;2) consider the usefulness of Locsin’s TCCN theory in physical therapy practice using a narrative review process;3) examine knowing patients as caring in physical therapy using Carper’s fundamental ways of knowing through the fic tional vignette;and 4) evaluate Donabedian’s structure, process, and outcome to assess the quality of healthcare as well as consider knowing patients and quality of caring regarding the mentioned fictional vignette. TCCN theory-based practice is essential for incorporating a caring attitude and the appropriate use of technology into the practice of physical therapy. Caring in physical therapy is the practice of patient-centered care through at tentive learning and engagement with the patient. J. Med. Invest. 72 : 60-65 February, 2025