Message From the Editors: Safe Practice in the Aquatic Environment

Abstract

On May 5, 2023, the World Health Organization declared that the global Public health emergency for COVID-19 was over,1 and on May 11 the US Department of Health and Human Services declared the same for the United States.2 Although these dates may have marked the end of the pandemic, variants of the virus have emerged and the need for knowledge of current safety measures for the delivery of safe aquatic physical therapy (APT) continues to be of utmost importance. The APTA conducted 4 surveys, addressing the impact of the pandemic on the physical therapy profession, between April 24, 2020, and August 27, 2022.3 Although the results were both insightful and informative, they did not specifically address the impact of the pandemic on APT. In this issue the Journal of Aquatic Physical Therapy editors share the results of an anonymous survey sent from January to February of 2022, to all members of the Academy of Aquatic Physical Therapy. The purpose of this survey was to identify and better understand the impact that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on the APT profession, and to obtain information to assist in the development of procedures that may guide future APT practice. The results indicate the need for all aquatic professionals to have a disaster plan, promote implementation of proper ventilation systems in aquatic settings, and be aware of the current Centers for Disease Control and Prevention pool maintenance and operation guidelines. This issue also addresses another safety concern, the accidental release of chlorine gas in an aquatic setting. This article, written by Dr. David L. Bell, et al.,4 describes an event that affected the health of 24 senior citizens participating in an aquatic exercise class in 2019. Many needed medical attentions, along with some of the facility employees and first responders. This clearly written account addresses the need for strict protocols that depict the safest means of handling pool chemicals. As as profession, we need to follow the current of safety, continuously monitoring and updating safety protocols in the aquatic environment. Soon, 2023 will roll out with the tide and 2024 will ride in with the swells. As co-editors, we appreciate the opportunity to surf and review the current evidence in an effort to publish cutting-edge aquatic research. We appreciate your support, and we wish you and your loved ones a joyous holiday season and good health in the New Year! Anita Van Wingerden, PT, DPT Natalie Norman Michaels, PT, EdD, GCS Emeritus Co-Editors