4 answers
Joshua
Student
Imperial, California
3
Questions
Updated
227 views
How can I be more patient in being a physical therapist and helping people with their injuries?
I am in 8th grade. I like to play sports.
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4 answers
Melanie Silverman
Chief Clinical Officer
16
Answers
Laguna Beach, California
Updated
Melanie’s Answer
Dear Joshua,
I think it's fantastic that you want to be a physical therapist. That's such an important profession. People need you! You have to know that when people come to you for physical therapy they are injured. And they are likely upset about it. So you have to be careful to be as supportive and positive as possible to help support them in their healing. This is going to require a lot of patience on your part and this is especially true if you are giving them exercises to do and they are not doing them. They may complain about being in pain or that they are not progressing as quickly as they think they should. Your job is to give them the proper information and then support them as best you can.
I hope this helps you!
Best of luck,
Melanie
I think it's fantastic that you want to be a physical therapist. That's such an important profession. People need you! You have to know that when people come to you for physical therapy they are injured. And they are likely upset about it. So you have to be careful to be as supportive and positive as possible to help support them in their healing. This is going to require a lot of patience on your part and this is especially true if you are giving them exercises to do and they are not doing them. They may complain about being in pain or that they are not progressing as quickly as they think they should. Your job is to give them the proper information and then support them as best you can.
I hope this helps you!
Best of luck,
Melanie
Harman Khokhar
Resident ER physician
6
Answers
Port St. Lucie, Florida
Updated
Harman’s Answer
Patience is a skill that improves with practice. I find putting myself in another shoes helps me be patient with them. Also becoming self aware when you feel angry or impatient helps, it allows you to pause and shift your perspective and allows you to start a more positive interaction instead of reacting through emotion.
Rose Eppinette
Ai, emt
13
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Rose’s Answer
Being a physical therapist requires a good dose of patience, as healing from injuries and ailments is often a slow process. Here are some tips to help you foster more patience in your role as a physical therapist:
Rekindle Your Passion:
Think back to what initially attracted you to the field of physical therapy. Was it the chance to help people regain their movement and enhance their lives? Reconnecting with your love for aiding others can be a powerful source of patience during tough times.
Cherish Every Step Forward:
Celebrate even the smallest progress made by your patients. Applaud their dedication and perseverance, and remind them that healing is a step-by-step journey.
Establish Feasible Goals:
From the beginning, discuss achievable recovery goals and timelines with your patients. This honesty can help set realistic expectations and prevent disappointment for both you and the patient.
Appreciate Individual Differences:
Every patient heals at their unique pace. Avoid comparing patients or feeling disheartened if someone's progress is slower than anticipated. Personalize your treatment plans and modify them as necessary based on individual requirements.
Cultivate Mindfulness:
Methods such as meditation or deep breathing can help you remain tranquil and focused when dealing with impatient or frustrated patients.
Open Dialogue is Essential:
Keep the lines of communication open with your patients. Encourage them to express their worries and frustrations. Listen attentively and address their concerns to foster trust and understanding.
Prioritize Self-Care:
Look after your own physical and mental well-being. Make sure you get sufficient rest, eat nutritious food, and participate in activities you love. A well-rounded and healthy you will be better prepared to provide patient care with empathy and patience.
Reach Out for Support:
Share your experiences with colleagues or mentors. Discussing your challenges and victories with others in the profession can provide encouragement and help you build resilience.
Celebrate All Wins:
Take a moment to recognize your own achievements and the positive influence you have on your patients' lives. Celebrating all milestones, regardless of size, can help sustain a sense of fulfillment and boost your motivation.
Remember, patience is a skill that can be honed over time. By adopting these strategies and focusing on your love for helping others, you can become a more patient and efficient physical therapist.
Rekindle Your Passion:
Think back to what initially attracted you to the field of physical therapy. Was it the chance to help people regain their movement and enhance their lives? Reconnecting with your love for aiding others can be a powerful source of patience during tough times.
Cherish Every Step Forward:
Celebrate even the smallest progress made by your patients. Applaud their dedication and perseverance, and remind them that healing is a step-by-step journey.
Establish Feasible Goals:
From the beginning, discuss achievable recovery goals and timelines with your patients. This honesty can help set realistic expectations and prevent disappointment for both you and the patient.
Appreciate Individual Differences:
Every patient heals at their unique pace. Avoid comparing patients or feeling disheartened if someone's progress is slower than anticipated. Personalize your treatment plans and modify them as necessary based on individual requirements.
Cultivate Mindfulness:
Methods such as meditation or deep breathing can help you remain tranquil and focused when dealing with impatient or frustrated patients.
Open Dialogue is Essential:
Keep the lines of communication open with your patients. Encourage them to express their worries and frustrations. Listen attentively and address their concerns to foster trust and understanding.
Prioritize Self-Care:
Look after your own physical and mental well-being. Make sure you get sufficient rest, eat nutritious food, and participate in activities you love. A well-rounded and healthy you will be better prepared to provide patient care with empathy and patience.
Reach Out for Support:
Share your experiences with colleagues or mentors. Discussing your challenges and victories with others in the profession can provide encouragement and help you build resilience.
Celebrate All Wins:
Take a moment to recognize your own achievements and the positive influence you have on your patients' lives. Celebrating all milestones, regardless of size, can help sustain a sense of fulfillment and boost your motivation.
Remember, patience is a skill that can be honed over time. By adopting these strategies and focusing on your love for helping others, you can become a more patient and efficient physical therapist.
Martin Schoen
APRN
133
Answers
Ocala, Florida
Updated
Martin’s Answer
Patience is indeed a precious quality, and the good news is, it can be cultivated. It's something that truly needs to be woven into the fabric of who you are. Along with patience, having a heart full of compassion, being a superb listener, and a caring nurturer are all key ingredients in becoming an outstanding healthcare worker. Try to exercise patience in your sports activities, and incorporating all these qualities will surely set you on the right path.