Work-related musculoskeletal disorders among Indian Physiotherapists

Abstract

be gained. The document Clinical Education Guidelines for Canadian University Programs provides national guidelines for the expected clinical experience during physical therapy programs; unless the profile of student experience in the clinical setting is known, it is difficult to ensure that students have met these requirements. Methods: A PDSA (plan-do-study-act) model was utilized to introduce an electronic clinical log into the curriculum. The Planning phase included vendor selection and development of the software application. The “Do” phase included a pilot test; analysis of results from the pilot formed the “Study” phase which was followed by an initial “Act” phase consisting of modifications based on the results. Since full implementation, the PDSA cycle continues to be utilized to develop system enhancements and modifications based on feedback and user experience. Results:Design and redesign of the system required close and ongoing collaboration between educational institution, system vendor and end users (students). Data collected has included student experience with specific patient diagnoses, assessment and treatment skills utilized, level of independent practice, and a profile of clinical experience in the core areas of practice (such as cardiorespiratory). This information has been utilized by the educational program to encourage students to identify their individual learning gaps and needs, as well as to ensure congruence of individual and collective student experiencewith the clinical education guidelines. Unanticipated uses of the tool emerged including as a personal marketing strategy for students during job interviews and as a guide for developing student clinical learning objectives by clinical supervisors. Conclusion(s): The PDSA cycle provided an effective model for the development and implementation of a clinical logging tool for physical therapy students. Work is currently underway to explore the utility of the system for practicing physical therapists as part of a professional practice portfolio and as a tool to ensure continuing competence. Close collaboration between the vendor, institution and end users formed a key part of the success of the project. Implications: Use of the PDSA cycle can be an effective tool in guiding the process of development of development and implementation of an electronic clinical logging tool to ensure quality in the breadth and depth of clinical learning experiences during a physical therapy program.