Thinking Physical Therapists
Okay, I will admit, I am a geek. How is it that with some patients I just know they are ready for x, y and z and for other patients, I know they are only at x and need time before they are ready for y and z? How is it that I know Patient B and Patient C both need q, r, and s, but I know I can't implement q, r, and s exactly in the same manner for either of the patients? Why is it when I read some of the scenarios requesting help over in MyPhysicalTherapySpace that the gender, age, chronicity, assessment findings, and diagnosis really don't paint enough of a picture for me to attempt to help with my thoughts? How do I make clinical decisions and what are the key factors that sway my decision-making process?
Not too many years ago, I was introduced the the value in contemplating how I think by Elizabeth Mostrom, PT. Her style of interaction with us graduate students was one where she knew just how to challenge us, yet at the same time, brought to the front how we made our decisions through each scenario she presented to us. (Shoot, back then, I even think our class was research material for her!) As I continue to grow in this particular field, I appreciate even more the time Mostrom took to create self-reflective awareness. The problem I have, as I learn more, is most research is quantitative in nature and to learn to change and grow does require some qualitative data and interpretation of that data.
In all honesty, if Gail Jensen, PT happened to be on Twitter, she'd receive the Shorty Award, hands down, for being the queen of delving into what makes expert physical therapists experts. The reason I mention Jensen is simply because anyone interested in thinking and critical reflection will have the opportunity to hear her, along with other colleagues, speak on this topic.
On February 19 from 1-3:45 pm, "Capturing Practical Knowledge in Clinical Practice Through Narrative Inquiry: Clinical Narratives as a Tool for Exploring and Fostering Professional Development and Critical Reflection" is offered during the American Physical Therapy Association Combined Sections Meeting. Those presenting include: Bruce Greenfield, PT, Colin Grove, PT, Ann Jampel, PT, Gail Jensen, PT, Mary Knab, PT, Elizabeth Mostrom, PT, Kip Schick, PT and Michael Sullivan, PT.
~Selena
Comments