This scoping review aimed to explore the contributing factors, challenges, and interventions associated with IP among physiotherapists.
Systematic searches were conducted to identify and include peer-reviewed journal studies relevant to IP among physiotherapists published between June 2014 and June 2024. Online resources and relevant conference proceedings specific to physiotherapy were also included. The search yielded 121 records, with 11 articles meeting the inclusion criteria after screening. An additional 8 records were identified through manual searches and grey literature, resulting in 19 articles for the final review.
Of the 19 articles, 15 were research studies on physiotherapists experiencing IP in professional and academic settings, while 4 were online articles from reputable platforms that offered credible and relevant information on challenges and interventions related to IP. The findings indicated that IP among physiotherapists was influenced by factors such as clinical experience, qualifications, transition periods, perfectionism, intrinsic and extrinsic pressures, career stage, mental health history, work settings and environment, age, stress, and gender. Challenges associated with IP included reduced confidence, self-doubt, performance anxiety, maladaptive coping skills, procrastination, decreased job satisfaction, and psychological distress. Effective strategies for addressing IP included raising awareness through targeted education, workplace interventions, personalised Continuing Professional Development programs, and ongoing learning. Mentorship from experienced clinicians along with revisiting curricula to enhance the preparedness of graduates was also recommended. Practical experiences, such as placements and seminars, emerged as effective learning methods. Additionally, cognitive behavioural techniques, friends and family support networks, and taking care of physical well-being were found to improve students' stress levels and coping skills.
This scoping review indicates that IP is commonly seen in physiotherapy students, new graduates, and early-career physiotherapists as they face challenges in their work and learning environments during the transition phases and strive for perfection. It is also common among physiotherapists with fewer years of work experience and those dealing with mental health issues, leading to feelings of self-doubt and inadequacy. The strategies included identifying, educating, and developing methods to support physiotherapy professionals and students with IP. Further research is needed to assess the long-term impact of these interventions on professional confidence and well-being.
In times of global staff shortages and increasing rehabilitation needs, it is crucial to address the issue of physiotherapists experiencing feelings of IP. A diminished workforce could lead to fewer physiotherapists and an increased workload, resulting in a stressful work environment, further predisposing physiotherapists to the IP. Addressing this issue is of prime importance, and creating supportive communities within the physiotherapy profession is essential for professional growth and well-being.
physiotherapy
education
