Aspiring medics visit RBH

Last month, 53 sixth form students from schools across the region attended an Introduction to Medicine Day at the Royal Berkshire Hospital NHS Foundation Trust. Jointly organised by Claire Dhaffir, Widening Participation Officer and Sue Matthews, Medical and Dental Education Manager, at the Trust,  the event gave students the opportunity to find out more about a career in the field of medicine.

The packed day provided a variety of sessions that began with presentations from newly qualified GPs, local medical schools, a local headmaster and Oncologist, Dr Alice Freebairn who gave an insightful and candid look at life as a Consultant.  This was followed by a lively interactive question and answer session to a panel of Consultants.

In the afternoon students engaged in hands on activities in the simulation centre where under the guidance of members of the clinical skills, resuscitation and simulation teams, they learnt how to: take a blood sample; insert intravenous lines used to give drugs straight into the blood stream; perform nasogastric intubation, a procedure in which a thin plastic tube is inserted through the nostril, down the esophagus, and into the stomach so that food can be given to patients unable to swallow or eat; and how to assess and resuscitate a patient.

Hannah Qureshi, a student at Kendrick School in Reading thoroughly enjoyed the day and said: “I love problem solving and science, and today has solidified my decision to become a doctor.”

“The team is delighted that the day was so well received,” commented Claire, joint organiser of the event.

“Feedback from students has been incredibly positive with comments such as:

A very enjoyable and informative day; it was extremely insightful and helpful…I had a brilliant time; I found it incredibly helpful, now all I need to do is get in!; extremely helpful, very informative and I felt this day was truly worthwhile.”

The day also provided students with the opportunity to apply for work shadow placements during their summer holiday prior to submitting their UCAS applications.

August 2016