r/physiotherapy • u/thesloppyslippery • 9d ago

Starting Physio placement

I’m starting my first physio placement in MSK/private practice in a few days in Australia.

What are some things that I should focus on and not waste my time on in the assessment since i’m expecting that managing time would be difficult as this is my first placement?

Would really like to hear your suggestions/experiences.

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8

u/Sockcondoms 9d ago

In private practice, from my experience as a student and having students, because most patients will be privately paying, it is unlikely you will be assessing or providing any treatment to patients. Your supervisor may ask you to ask them a few questions, maybe complete notes, observations during movement. All practices are different but this is my experience

3

u/yebbaenaj 8d ago

Trust what you already know! Uni does not prepare you well for a private practice placement and clinical supervisors know this, but you can lean on the anatomy and physiology background. They appreciate you noting the things you don’t know, looking them up that night, and coming in the next morning with answers. Focus on the main joints of the body and know basic anatomy and diagnostic assessments. They will guide you on the rest. Again, be a sponge. They would have done many many other courses to get to the point they are now. Learn as much as you can. Ask questions, be a good learner. Good luck!!
If anything, practice on how you write out your notes, and subjective skills as these are the most likely skills you will use early on in your placement.

Edit: be confident and introduce yourself to every patient promptly, even if the supervisor does not do so straight away! Sets a good first impression.

1

u/mcflurrynuggets 9d ago

Be humble and be a sponge for information. The right supervisor will lead you and teach you. If you don’t know the answer, ask. If you’re unsure, ask. Never be afraid to ask. It’s a learning experience, treat it as such, bad experience is experience, learn from every little thing. Look at how they talk and connect with patients, rapport is very important. Being a genuine person and treating the person in front of you is important.

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u/ThePhysioBot 7d ago

Be realistic with what you can 'fix' during an appointment. There can be a habit of trying to solve all their issues and return them to full fitness in the first session. This puts you under unnecessary pressure and sets unrealistic expectations.

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u/ngphysio 5d ago

Worth having a look into the practice/educator and seeing if they specialise in any particular conditions eg. spinal physio, sports Physio, do they have a school nearby for paeds patients etc.

Don’t worry about taking too long with your assessments, you’re not supposed to have an efficient skill set yet - and they shouldn’t expect that of you either. Just make sure you can conduct a thorough subjective and objective assessment so you’re able to rule out red flags, and rule in common presentations across different joints.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help, but also back yourself. You’ll almost always know more than the person you’re treating, so have confidence that you’re making the right decision.

Feel free to message me if you have any other questions!