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The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of an older adult simulation suit on empathy in physical therapy students. The study used a mixed-methods design. An older adult simulator suit was designed for use in this study. The primary outcome measure was empathy as measured by a 20-item Empathy Questionnaire (EQ). Secondary outcomes included rate of perceived exertion, functional mobility, and physical difficulty. Participants were physical therapy students (n = 24) enrolled in an accredited program in the United States. Participants performed a Modified Physical Performance Test (MPPT) with and without the simulator suit, followed by an interview about their experience. For the primary outcome of empathy, there was a significant difference on the EQ (n = 2.51, n =.02), indicating increased empathy following exposure to the suit. For secondary outcomes, there were significant differences on perceived exertion (n = 5.61, n <.001) and MPPT scores (n = 9.18, n <.001). Two themes were developed: 1.) Experience Creates Awareness and Inspires Empathy, and 2.) Empathy Impacts Treatment Perspective. Results support that an older adult simulator suit can affect empathy in student physical therapists. The benefits of having experienced the older adult simulator may help student physical therapists in making treatment decisions when working with older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A case report of a 38-year-old man with a 10 year history of left buttock mass associated with pain and numbness. A computed tomography scan showed a subcutaneous enhancing 1cm lesion that was not communicating with surrounding structures to include neurovascular structures. The mass was removed without complication and sent to pathology for extensive review. This case report signifies the importance of maintaining a broad differential with a subcutaneous mass presentation and includes thorough histology and pathology for angioleiomyoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]