Cabinet Peaks pediatric therapist earns special certification

Cabinet Peaks Medical Center recently announced that Carrie Wardian, Pediatric Physical Therapist, has successfully completed the Prechtl Assessment of General Movement Basic Training course and passed the certification testing, officially becoming a "Certified Reliable Assessor." 

This specialized training, held in Spokane, equips Wardian with advanced skills to assess spontaneous movements in pre-term and young infants, which can predict neurological conditions such as cerebral palsy with a 95% accuracy rate.

The Prechtl Assessment is highly regarded worldwide for its sensitivity and specificity. It is a non-invasive, cost-effective test that can be completed either via video or in person, making it particularly valuable in rural settings like Libby and Troy, where healthcare resources and specialists may be limited. 

The assessment helps identify infants at risk for developmental delays, enabling early intervention and access to necessary therapies or specialists.

"With our growing community and hospital services, I’m proud to enhance my skills to better serve young infants and their families," said Carrie Wardian. "This certification allows me to provide early assessments that can help rule out developmental concerns or guide families to the right resources if additional care is needed."

Tonya Teegardin, Chief Nursing Officer at Cabinet Peaks Medical Center, also praised Carrie’s achievement.

“We are thrilled to have someone with Carrie’s expertise in our pediatric department. Her commitment to continuous learning and improving patient care is greatly appreciated," Teegardin said. "This certification will have a significant impact on the early identification of neurological conditions in infants, offering families peace of mind and faster access to the resources they may need.”

The Prechtl General Movement Assessment is supported by 20 years of research and is one of the most reliable early indicators of neurological disorders in infants under five months of age. 

As more families in the region seek pediatric services, Carrie's expertise offers a critical resource for early diagnosis and care, contributing to the overall health and well-being of the community.

For more information about this assessment and its benefits, please contact Cabinet Peaks Medical Center at 406-283-7280.