Hard to believe it has been over a year since I've put anything down here. Was never really sure how much anyone would care about this blog, but judging from the amount of page views this blog gets, there's a lot of people out there curious about what it takes to become a physical therapist. Seems most of my views come from people looking for application help, so for those of you out there filling out your PTCAS and want some input, shoot me an email or drop a comment. I'm more than willing to answer your questions or give you some feedback.
So here I am in my 4th semester of PT school. This is just about the halfway point of my schooling career. I've got lots of classes under my belt, but even more importantly, I've finally gotten the opportunity to be in the clinic. I recently completed my six-week clinical rotation in December. The setting was an outpatient clinic that dealt mainly with patients with low-back and neck injuries. I was able to see the occasional shoulder, hip, and knee patient as well.
Some tips for those of you entering the clinic.
Don't be intimidated - especially if it is your first clinical, your instructor knows what to expect of you (and it's not much). Obviously be aware of the PT basics (MMT, goniometry, and a basic exam), but don't sweat the big stuff. That is why you are in the clinic. I think I would've gotten much more from the experience if I didn't spend the first week and a half trying to decide my place. Just jump in and get your feet wet.
Ask questions - If your CI didn't want to answer your questions, they probably wouldn't have chosen to be a CI. If you're unsure of a technique or diagnosis, just ask. You must, of course, be aware of the appropriate time to ask questions. It may or may not be okay to ask things in front of patients or during the busiest hour of the day. You're there to learn, though, so soak it up.
Try, Touch, Feel - This is what is so important about the clinic. You have been practicing these techniques on you fairly healthy classmates for a few semesters. Now it is time to get into the nitty gritty of our profession. You'll be amazed when you feel a knot in someones back or tight suboccipitals like you've never seen. Try the techniques too! If you're uncomfortable, ask your CI if you can practice on them first. They will help you get it down before you go cranking on a patients frozen shoulder.
Those are just a few of the basics of getting started on a clinical rotation. I think now is the time when a lot of you out there are waiting for acceptance letters, so good luck! Keep checking PTCAS and checking back here for updates.
Ted
