Through observation and communication with physical therapists over the past 4 years, my views of professionalism in this field have been shaped, helping me realize that professionalism requires much more than just a white coat. During my various practical experiences at various PT clinics, I witnessed professionalism through the therapists’ service towards their patients, their communication with patients and colleagues, and their sense of accountability in unforeseen situations. I have seen therapists develop a sense of purpose and satisfaction in their work when working with patients because of their commitment to individualized service. At PRANA Functional Manual Therapy, therapists would devote up to an hour to their patients, in initially allotted half-hour slots, so that they could better develop treatments for each patient. During treatments, they created a relationship of trust with their patients, built on respect, empathy, and generosity. Devoting extra time gave the patients extra time for rehabilitation and the therapists, in turn, derived …show more content…
Medical jargon is often not readily understood by non-PT professionals so knowing how to appropriately communicate with using understandable vocabulary is important. I saw this first-hand when shadowing a physical therapist at a local clinic. An elderly man was experiencing dizziness and the therapist diagnosed him with vertigo. At the time, I was unfamiliar with the mechanisms and biochemistry of the vestibular system. The therapist clearly explained to both the patient and me the causes of vertigo, including an abridged anatomy of the vestibular system and the diagnosis he deemed appropriate. Professionalism requires gaining adept communication skills when working with patients and peers. I have been cultivating this skill through many patient interactions during my observation hours and will continue to do so throughout graduate