The variability of the bronchi a1 arteries is mentioned by a iimnber of writws but details of the topography of these nriations are difficult to come by, although "Bnowledge of their variable origins a i d distribution would provide a practical addition to the operator's armamentarium" (Ci~dcJ\\~ell ct a]., '48). 1)ESCRJPTION O F CASENale dissecting room body, aet. 66; ccrtified cause of death:arteriosclerosis. The right and left bronchial arteries originated from a single stem which arose in common with the 1-eft superior intercostal artery from the left siikclavian ( fig. 1 ). This common "interccstobronchial trunk" was encircled by the ansa subclavia, and after a course of about one inch divided into its intercostal and bronchial branclies, the former vessel snpplping the first and second intercostal spaces. The bronchial trunlr passed downwards behind the stellate ganglion ( fig. a ) , being partially enilmlded in its posterior surface. Tt then coiirsed obliqiiely downwards and mcldjad behind the lcft subdavian artery to reach the front of tlie oesopliagns. Two main oesophageal branches wcre given off; the larger aiid proximal behind the subclavian artcry, tlie smaller and distal in the traclieo-oesophageal groove. The common bronchial artery then continued downwards behind the aortic arch and behind the left recurrent laryngeal nerve, giving a hraiicli to a superior tracheobroncliial lymph gland situated aborc the left broncbus ( fig. 3). The artery then passed to thc front of the trachea a short distance above the tracheal hifnrcatioii, 227

Purpose: Although physical therapists (PTs) are equipped and trained with the knowledge of the importance of vital sign assessment and cardiovascular risk factors, there seems to be a discrepancy between the practice guidelines and the actual practice in the clinic. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to observe the frequency with which PTs take and record heart rate (HR) and blood pressure (BP) in the orthopedic outpatient setting during therapy sessions. Methods: Physical therapists from 6 area clinics were observed, including 15 licensed PTs, during 74 patient sessions. The frequency with which the PTs measured patients' BP and HR during initial assessment and/or follow-up treatment sessions was documented. Physical therapist demographics and patient diagnosis, comorbidities, age, and sex were recorded. Results: Of the 74 patient sessions, 15 were initial visits, 54 were follow-up, and 5 were discharge sessions. Although 26% (n = 19) of the patients had hypertension as a comorbidity, initial HR and BP were only taken in 2 sessions, and only once taken after exercise. Conclusions: Within our limited sample, PTs in outpatient settings were not following HR and BP screening or exercise monitoring practice guidelines. This could put patients at risk for cardiovascular incidents during therapy sessions.

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