Question about Observation...How do I start?

[SAJ19]

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So, I've recently decided that I wanted to pursue my DPT and become a physical therapist😀! I have already started the process of registering for pre-reqs (Im a non-trad student...finished my BA in '05 and MPH in '11), and hope to get those started this summer. My only concern is that I would like to start applying mid-fall and don't know how to go about getting my in-patient hours done. Ive contacted some outpatient rehab centers in my area (Atlanta) and they seem very receptive to volunteers, but I've noticed that the hospitals that do allow volunteers stress the fact that there will be no clinical contact with patients *frustrating*. Any suggestions on other places to look or how to best approach the situation?

 

[NeophyteParkour]

the hospitals that do allow volunteers stress the fact that there will be no clinical contact with patients *frustrating*

That's basically how it is in every hospital. Schools know this, and would like to see you have experience with an in-patient hospital anyway. It's important for you to know that in-patient PT is different.

 

[jblil]

From another non-trad (I got my MBA in '99) to another: since you're only observing or shadowing, you rightfully should not have physical contact with the patients. Besides, we aren't licensed. But you can still talk to the patient, ask the PT questions, etc. I learnt a lot during my volunteer gig; and even though I've been accepted into a DPT program, I'll continue to volunteer right up to the day when classes start.

 

[djb051]

So, I've recently decided that I wanted to pursue my DPT and become a physical therapist😀! I have already started the process of registering for pre-reqs (Im a non-trad student...finished my BA in '05 and MPH in '11), and hope to get those started this summer. My only concern is that I would like to start applying mid-fall and don't know how to go about getting my in-patient hours done. Ive contacted some outpatient rehab centers in my area (Atlanta) and they seem very receptive to volunteers, but I've noticed that the hospitals that do allow volunteers stress the fact that there will be no clinical contact with patients *frustrating*. Any suggestions on other places to look or how to best approach the situation?

I think that is pretty common for hospitals. I shadowed at a large hospital a few times, and they told me at the beginning that volunteers are not allowed to touch patients or have direct contact. I did, however, learn a lot just from shadowing the PT's and asking them a lot of questions. I also talked a lot with the patients. I think you will still learn a lot just by watching, and it will still count as inpatient hours when applying to the pt programs.

 

[okramango]

I would also suggest contacting the hospital's rehab department directly, rather than going through the volunteer department. That way you can ask the PTs directly if you can come to shadow. All PTs have had to do this, so they generally are understanding. That's how I got my inpatient volunteer job. I don't have any physical contact with patients, but I can watch, talk to patients, and ask PTs questions.