I
observed many generic treatments such as: ACL repairs, total hip/knee replacements,
and rotator cuff repairs. As much as I did enjoy these particular settings, I felt that I
wanted more; I wanted to experience inpatient physical therapy in a clinical setting.
Professor Armstrong provided me with the contact information of Ann Jampel, the
Clinical Education Coordinator at Massachusetts General Hospital. I eagerly provided
her with my resume and cover letter, in hopes of scoring an interview, which I ended up
getting at the end of March. During the interview Ann asked me many difficult questions
pertaining to physical therapy. She wanted to know what I though the role of a physical
therapist, both inpatient and outpatient, was and what I was really looking to do as a
career in my future. After the interview portion of our meeting, I then shadowed a
physical therapist in the Cardiorespiratory Acute-Care Unit. This was the first time I had
ever seen physical therapy being done in a clinical setting and I instantly was intrigued.
There is a large need for a second set of hands during their treatments, which would
make this a very hands-on internship experience. After leaving the hospital alter that
afternoon, I knew that Massachusetts General Hospital was the place that I needed to
be during my Summer 2016 internship.
Professional Objectives
Goal 1: Consistently maintain an environment that is safe for the patient and myself
during clinical interactions.
Activities: Observe, Asking for assistance when necessary, maintaining
infection control, practicing effective body mechanics