Physical Therapy

Job Descriptions
The physical therapist is legally and ethically responsible for planning, implementing and evaluating a physical therapy program. This responsibility often includes instructing the patients and their families and supervising the physical therapist assistants, physical therapy aids, students, and other health workers in carrying out the program or selected parts of it. In planning the program of physical therapy, the physical therapist reviews the patient's problem(s). Physical therapists preform tests and evaluations which provide information about: joint motion, strength and endurance of muscles, functional ability, status of muscle tone and reflexes, appearance and stability of walking, need and use of braces and artificial limbs, function of the heart and lungs, integrity of sensation and perception, and the performance of activities required in daily living. The physical therapist consults and works closely with the patient's physician and other health practitioners in establishing treatment objectives which are realistic and consistent with the patient's needs. The treatments given by the physical therapist include exercises for increasing strength, endurance, coordination and range of motion; the use of heat, cold electricity, sound, and water to relieve pain and stimulate motor activity, and instruction in activities of daily living and the use of assistive devices. Research is another important aspect of physical therapy. Clinical research is being conducted to develop more effective treatment in methods of evaluation in order to improve patient care.

Employment

• hospitals
• nursing homes
• schools of handicapped children
• private offices
• rehabilitation centers
• community health centers
• research centers
• industry
• universities
• sports medicine facilities

Essential Personal Attributes

The following personal attributes are essential for anyone pursuing a career in physical therapy. It is important for you to consider these characteristics when you assess your suitability.
1)   Integrity and honesty.
2)   Emotional stability enabling you to work constructively with people under stressful conditions.
3)   Ability to express self adequately verbally, non-verbally, and in written form.
4)   Skill in establishing and maintaining effective interpersonal interaction.
5)   Ability to instruct, motivate, and be patient with other people.
6)   Human warmth and understanding with high interest in being in a helping, caring relationship.
7)   Ability to work equitably with people whose value systems might differ from your own.
8)   Ability to work equitably with people of another race, sex, color or creed.
9)   Ability to assume supervisory responsibilities.
10)  Willingness to accept direction and instruction and assume responsibility for your own actions.
11)  Firm commitment to the successful study of physical therapy.
12)  Ability to communicate your understanding of your own strengths, weaknesses, self-confidence, and                  leadership skills.

Curriculum Planning for Physical Therapy