I finally have set up some time with a PT practice to start observing. I am a little nervous since I don't really know what to do or how to act in this kind of situation. I mean how do I know when to help out or if I should at all? Do you ask questions while they are working with a patient? What questions are good to ask? And any tips in general would be very helpful.
Tips for first time volunterring?
- Thread starter 8MoreReps
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Usually the PT you are observing/volunteering for will ask you to help out, whether it be to stretch a patient, put away some equipment like a theraband, or play catch with a patient while the PT is guarding them. At first you might do more observing, and then as time goes on you'll help out and get some hands-on work. You may start off getting to help out right away. It all depends on the PT you're with. That being said, it's very helpful to ask questions, just not too many that would distract the PT working during the session. A good PT will try to explain some things that he/she is doing or about the pt's diagnosis/background (with the pt's permission), but don't be afraid to ask questions if you have any.
I remember asking the PT I volunteered for what spinal stenosis was, as I had never heard about it before, or why she had a patient with carpal tunnel syndrome doing a wrist flexion/extension exercise. Asking questions made for an engaging learning experience. During school I often reflected back on what I remembered during my volunteer days and what the PT did, which helped me better understand and apply what I was learning at the time.
Another note, is that even though you are interested in this field, at times you may feel very tired, because you're standing there and watching instead of doing all the work the PT is doing. So don't feel bad if you feel 'bored' or 'restless'. Asking questions and trying to stay engaged is the key. Good luck!
I remember asking the PT I volunteered for what spinal stenosis was, as I had never heard about it before, or why she had a patient with carpal tunnel syndrome doing a wrist flexion/extension exercise. Asking questions made for an engaging learning experience. During school I often reflected back on what I remembered during my volunteer days and what the PT did, which helped me better understand and apply what I was learning at the time.
Another note, is that even though you are interested in this field, at times you may feel very tired, because you're standing there and watching instead of doing all the work the PT is doing. So don't feel bad if you feel 'bored' or 'restless'. Asking questions and trying to stay engaged is the key. Good luck!
Thanks for the post above. Yea I can imagine if you are standing for hours and not helping out much it can get boring/tiresome. How many hours a day would you recommend? I probably can only do 4 hours at a time max since I am working full time, but what did you guys do? Did you sit or stand most of the time?
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I also volunteered/observed for 4 hours at a time at most places, so typically 8-12 and then I'd leave for lunch. I would sit if there was a seat nearby and the PT was also sitting, but I found myself having to stand quite a bit. Look at it as practice for the real thing. 😉
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I haven't personally observed a PT but what I've gleaned from my other experiences may help you:
1) Be observant of your surroundings.
2) Talk before or after each visit with the PT so you have a good idea of what is going on.
3) Bring a notepad with you to jot down your feelings and thoughts during the day. Other SDN posters have suggested that the notes you take from shadowing can even be used when it's time to write your personal statement.
4) Have fun! This is an ideal opportunity to convince yourself that you're on the right career path.
1) Be observant of your surroundings.
2) Talk before or after each visit with the PT so you have a good idea of what is going on.
3) Bring a notepad with you to jot down your feelings and thoughts during the day. Other SDN posters have suggested that the notes you take from shadowing can even be used when it's time to write your personal statement.
4) Have fun! This is an ideal opportunity to convince yourself that you're on the right career path.
That sounds fine. The dress varies among facilities. Our clinic was business casual so we wore a nice top, khaki or dress pants, and dress shoes every day. Other places wear scrubs or allow tennis shoes. I would wear what you mentioned and notice what everyone's wearing on the first day. You can adjust from there.
