Sunday, March 24, 2019

Learn What A DOT Physical San Antonio TX Involves

By Gary Patterson


If you work in the transportation sector where you are charged with the task of ferrying people or goods from one place to the other with a motor vehicle, the DOT requires you to undergo some tests to ensure that your driving performance is up to standard. This test is crucial, especially for people who drive trucks and buses. When preparing for a DOT physical San Antonio TX drivers can benefit if they learn what the test involves.

The other names used to refer to the DOT physical include DOT test, DMV physical, DOT exam and drivers physical. Having the test done by a certified, qualified and competent practitioner in the medical field is one of the main requirements. This practitioner can be a nurse, a doctor, or the assistant of a doctor. The test commences with a review of the medical records and some random questioning about the kind of medication the person may be using.

During the test, the examiner will monitor your blood pressure and pulse rate and then perform a vision test because drivers are mandated to have at least 20/40 vision in each eye whether they are using corrective lenses or not. The examiner will also perform a whispered voice test. Other tests include checking the spine for deformities and an examination of your throat and mouth for swallowing or breathing problems.

The other essential examinations that the examiner will conduct are neurological tests to confirm that the reflexes and coordination are normal. The examiner will also check for any impairment in the respiratory system by listening to the heart and lungs for murmurs. He or she will press your abdomen to check for abnormalities. Furthermore, the medical examiner will perform a hernia check and urinalysis to establish whether you have any underlying medical conditions.

After undergoing the DOT exam, you may get a certificate depending on the results of the tests. The certificate can be valid for a period of two years maximum before another DOT physical is done. It can also be valid for a period of 3 to 6 months.

A DOT exam is essential for many reasons, including assurance of proper vision under DOT regulations. Excellent vision is a significant requirement when operating a commercial vehicle. Mono-vision leads to denial of a DOT medical card. Drug testing is another essential reason for the exam. Drug tests help ensure that CDL holders do not use hard drugs that may endanger their lives and those of other road users. Hearing testing helps ascertain commercial vehicle drivers have no hearing impairment.

Brain and neurological screening are also done as part of the physical to unmask any brain injuries that may affect the driver. Discovery of disorders such as seizures during the test is crucial because individuals with such problems should not have DOT medical cards. Cardiovascular screening to unmask any heart problems is another crucial reason for performing the DOT test, as individuals with serious heart issues should not operate commercial vehicles.

Although it involves several steps, the test is risk-free and is conducted in the interest of the driver and the public. By checking your mental, physical and emotional health, the medical examiner can establish whether you are fit to drive commercial vehicles or not. The tests often take between thirty minutes and an hour to complete.




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