Progress Notes
Progress Notes are detailed records that Athletic Trainers keep to track how athletes are recovering from injuries or responding to treatment. Think of them like a diary that documents changes in an athlete's condition, their treatment plan, and how well they're improving. These notes help Athletic Trainers communicate with other healthcare providers, maintain legal records, and make sure athletes are getting the right care. Similar terms you might see include "treatment notes," "clinical documentation," or "patient records." These notes are a crucial part of any Athletic Trainer's daily responsibilities and are often required for insurance and compliance purposes.
Examples in Resumes
Maintained detailed Progress Notes for 50+ student-athletes
Implemented electronic Progress Notes system to improve documentation efficiency
Used Progress Notes to coordinate care with team physicians and physical therapists
Documented athlete recovery through comprehensive Treatment Notes and Progress Notes
Typical job title: "Athletic Trainers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Athletic Trainers
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you ensure your progress notes meet both legal and professional standards?
Expected Answer: A senior Athletic Trainer should discuss compliance with HIPAA regulations, proper documentation methods, objective vs subjective information, and systems for maintaining accurate, thorough records that protect both the athlete and the organization.
Q: Describe how you've improved documentation systems in your previous roles.
Expected Answer: Should explain experience in implementing or improving documentation processes, training others on proper note-taking, and creating efficient workflows that maintain quality while saving time.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What key elements do you include in your progress notes?
Expected Answer: Should mention including subjective complaints, objective measurements, assessment findings, and treatment plans (SOAP format), plus any communication with other healthcare providers and return-to-play decisions.
Q: How do you use progress notes to communicate with other healthcare providers?
Expected Answer: Should discuss how they write clear, professional notes that other providers can understand, including relevant medical terminology and specific measurable outcomes.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is the purpose of keeping progress notes?
Expected Answer: Should explain that progress notes track patient care, ensure continuity of treatment, provide legal documentation, and help communicate with other healthcare providers.
Q: Describe the basic format you use for writing progress notes.
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the basic SOAP note format (Subjective, Objective, Assessment, Plan) and why each component is important.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic SOAP note format understanding
- Documentation of routine treatments
- Basic injury assessment documentation
- Understanding of confidentiality requirements
Mid (2-5 years)
- Detailed treatment documentation
- Electronic health record system usage
- Communication with healthcare team
- Insurance and billing documentation
Senior (5+ years)
- Documentation system implementation
- Staff training on documentation
- Quality assurance protocols
- Legal compliance oversight
Red Flags to Watch For
- Poor understanding of HIPAA and confidentiality
- Inability to write clear, concise notes
- Lack of experience with electronic health records
- No knowledge of proper documentation requirements
- Unfamiliarity with SOAP note format
Related Terms
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
From Passive to Active: Nurturing Candidates Over the Long Haul
From Farewells to Future Allies: Transforming Exit Interviews into Lifelong Connections
Beyond Borders: Mastering the Art of a Global Onboarding Calendar
