As a physiotherapy student in the UK, one of the most enriching aspects is the hands-on experiences gained through placement opportunities. These placements not only enhance your practical skills but also provide invaluable insights into the healthcare system. Here’s a closer look at what I have experienced in my past placements.
Working in the NHS
One of the unique advantages of studying Physiotherapy in the UK is the chance to work within the National Health Service (NHS). During my placements, I had the opportunity to work with experienced physiotherapists who act as my mentors. This mentorship is crucial, as it allowed me to shadow and learn from their expertise, gain practical skills, and understand the intricacies of patient care within a large public healthcare system.
One-on-One Patient Interaction
A significant aspect of my placement involved interacting individually with patients. I had the chance to talk to them as a Physiotherapy student, conducting assessments, developing treatment plans, and implementing rehabilitation strategies. This one-on-one experience is invaluable, as it helped me build essential communication skills and learn to tailor my approach to meet individual patient needs. It gave me a real, authentic experience of how working in the NHS is really like.
Shadowing in Different Departments
During placements, there are often opportunities to shadow professionals in various departments. Whether it is in orthopedics, pediatrics, or sports medicine, each department offers a unique perspective on Physiotherapy practice. Shadowing allowed me to observe different treatment approaches and understand how physiotherapists work within multidisciplinary teams. I was lucky enough to have a shadowing day with the Hydrotherapy team in the hospital. It was a memorable experience for me as I got to go into the water with patients to do the same exercises with them. This way, I could actually have a first person point of view on what it feels like to be in the Hydrotherapy pool. It was like stepping into my patients’ shoes, and definitely an experience I will never forget.
Developing Clinical Skills
Throughout my placements, I was exposed to different treatment techniques and modalities used in Physiotherapy. From exercise therapy to manual therapy, I gain hands-on experience that strengthened my clinical skills. I was also continuously encouraged to demonstrate my critical thinking skills throughout placements and guidance was provided whenever necessary. This helped build up my confidence and competence as a future physiotherapist.
Challenges and Learning Opportunities
While placements are incredibly rewarding, they can also present challenges. I have encountered complex cases that push through my critical thinking skills. However, I think these challenges are excellent learning opportunities that helped me grow as a practitioner and prepared me for the realities of working in the healthcare field.
Summary
Placement opportunities as a Physiotherapy student are beneficial for developing various skills, like communication, critical thinking and clinical skills. Working in the NHS, interacting with patients, and shadowing experienced professionals shaped me into a competent and compassionate practitioner. Embrace these experiences, as they will prepare you for a successful career in Physiotherapy!