Today i learnt that dealing with an horribly aggressive, demented and anxious patient is more difficult than i thought. It is also frustrating for the therapist because they are capable of completing treatment program but simply not willing. Today part of the physio duties is to complete a mobility chart which acknowledges the amount of assistance a patient requires to transfer, mobilise etc. The patient had refused therapy previously but it was absolutely necessary on this occasion. The elderly patient was very anxious and aggressive which made everyone feel uncomfortable and made it almost impossible to develop any rapport with the patient. Overall the treatment was very fairly effective and the key was to use plenty of motivational strategies and explain the importance of her physiotherapy treatment. This way the patient understands the implications of non compliance and is still able to make own decisions. Physiotherapy needs to work both ways and consent is a massive issue here 'you help us, we help you'. If a patient still refused treatment then that is their decision and needs to be acknowledged. Overall treatment was effective and communication was a key. In the future it may be more beneficial to spend more time developing rapport with the patient which may aid cooperation. All the strategies learnt in geriatrics regarding cognitive deficit and Rx modifications become key skills for the therapist.
Today i learnt that yet again communication is the most valuable skill for a therapist to master.
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