How to Answer: Talk about a recent problem that you faced as a Physical Therapist. How did you go about solving the problem?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Physical Therapist job interview.
25. Talk about a recent problem that you faced as a Physical Therapist. How did you go about solving the problem?
How to Answer
For this question, the interviewer is looking to assess your problem solving skills and your people skills. Be sure to think of a situation where you took on a challenge, used critical thinking and got a great result out of the situation. The interviewer will be looking for you to learn something from the situation moving forward as well.
Written by Heather Douglass
Entry Level
"During my internship, I was given a lot of freedom to work with patients without my supervising therapist present. I had a patient that was rehabbing a sports injury to their knee who had recently been in a car accident. During the accident, the patient had felt some neck pain but had not had it treated. Once the patient had consulted me regarding the neck pain, I was unsure how to handle the situation moving forward. I explained to the patient that I wanted to get the expertise of my superior and they were very understanding. After speaking with my supervising therapist, we made the recommendation for the patient to see their primary care doctor for the neck pain. In situation like this as a new Physical Therapist, I won't hesitate to seek the advice from my colleagues."
Written by Ryan Brunner
Answer Example
"The most difficult problem I faced recently was working with my schedule to get two walk-in appointments in between scheduled patients. I made a point to explain to the walk-ins that I would do my best to get them in but they may have to wait a bit. The fact that I was up front with the possibility that they could wait made them understand why they had to wait a bit longer than normal. After communicating with my team, another therapist was able to help out with one of my regularly scheduled appointments and we made the situation work."
Written by Heather Douglass
Experienced
"I recently had a patient I was working with that suffered from a mental illness on top of their physical injury. After my first session with the new patient, I realized that they would be more demanding of one on one time when in our office rehabbing. Knowing that at most times I am working with multiple patients, I spoke with my manager about the demand for time that this particular patient would have. Being a patient centered therapist and clinic, we made the decision to set aside separate one on one scheduling time between the patient and myself."
Written by Ryan Brunner
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Rachelle's Feedback