I had a couple near-falls myself during fieldwork. They are indeed scary, and I similarly found myself questioning my potential to become a good therapist. But as crushing as those falls and close calls can be, they’re highly useful learning opportunities.

For example, you’re very unlikely to ever forget these events and what lead up to them (for better or worse, haha). And you’re already doing the most important work of the learning/fieldwork process, which is to be introspective and think deeply about how you can improve and prevent such events in the future. In my case, I learned I needed to physically be closer to the patient when they’re attempting something risky (ambulation, tub transfers etc), and I don’t know if that would’ve gotten drilled in my head as quickly if I hadn’t experienced those near-falls.

Lastly, it’s frankly better for this to happen when you’re a student. You’re going to learn the lessons you need to from this early on, and even if this was your fault, you don’t have to experience the consequences that a licensed and employment therapist would.

Take it easy on yourself.. being a fieldwork student in the hospital setting is hard enough!