Upon registration to the workforce, new-graduate physiotherapists are qualified to practise across all settings and locations within their scope. New-graduate practice encompasses the transition from student to clinician and is typically characterised by feelings of anxiety, uncertainty and a lack of confidence. This transition usually represents a steep learning curve relating to clinical skills, professional socialisation and knowledge required for a diverse and complex health system. 1 Rural and remote practice requires a unique set of professional skills and is often referred to as a specialty in its own right. 2 When reflecting on the challenges faced by
Background and Purpose
The transition from student to physiotherapist involves a steep learning curve typically characterised by stress, anxiety and a lack of confidence in clinical and professional skills. Workplace mentoring is widely used to mediate this transition. The aim of this study was to explore new‐graduate physiotherapists' preferences for workplace mentoring and perceived characteristics of effective mentoring to mediate workplace transition.
Methods
A qualitative study with a general inductive thematic approach was used. Semi‐structured interviews of 15 employed new‐graduate physiotherapists were undertaken within their first 3–6 months of clinical practice.
Results
Four themes emerged that were associated with effective mentoring from the new‐graduates’ perspective: (1) accessibility of mentoring and support, (2) the ideal mentor, (3) individualised to the mentee and (4) desire for self‐determination.
Discussion and Conclusion
This study is the first to explore new‐graduate physiotherapists' preferences for workplace mentoring in their transition into the workplace and clinical practice. It has identified important characteristics of physiotherapists and other clinicians who support the transition of new‐graduate physiotherapists into the practice setting. Enhancing workplaces through support for the development of these characteristics can contribute to the effective integration of the newest members of the profession and may enhance their development and retention in practice.
Introduction: Rural physiotherapy is a challenging area of practice that requires clinicians to respond to the unique factors that contribute to rurality. This study aimed to outline an introductory set of competencies that contribute to effective physiotherapy practice in rural Australia.
Methods: A three-round Delphi study was undertaken using a panel of expert physiotherapists. The panel was asked to provide open-ended responses to the following question: 'What unique knowledge, skills, abilities, attributes or other characteristics do physiotherapists need to possess, or learn in order to provide Rural and Remote Health rrh.org.au
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