Humbled

Today I taught the wall squat exercise for my patient’s home exercise program. I was excited about this assignment but I couldn’t help the jitters from bubbling up. Although I tried to keep it all under control, it was difficult not to let it affect my performance.

I got to the clinic early and I observed my client as he danced to Tsokolate. I was able to build rapport by talking to him prior the session. I believe that our talk helped him gain confidence in me. During my teaching, I found it challenging to distinguish the fine line between adapting and controlling a situation. Like what I learned in the movie, I needed different strategies to adapt to the mood and attitude of the client. However, I lacked the aggressiveness to control the teaching which I needed to make the session better.

Some of the highlights of my session were that I was able to give the patient easy to remember instructions, correct his movements, continuously assess him, provide auditory and tactile cues, and evaluate his learning at the end. I also used a friendly tone and adequate volume in speaking.

On the other hand I can still improve on speaking more clearly and concisely. I should also clarify things and encourage the patient to ask questions. I did use a visual aid but it was only used towards the end. Also, in demonstrating, I forgot to ensure that the client saw me. Finally I should always keep the patient’s condition in mind for possible considerations.

Overall, this was a humbling experience. In our simulated cases, I thought I was ready. I only realized that it's a totally different experience when you're faced with an actual patient. Besides remembering the psychomotor skills we've been taught, I also have to control my emotions and constantly think of the appropriate things to say. It's tough but these are things that can be learned through practice and experience. I'll eventually get it and become a great therapist.