Medical Society - Term 4

Canterbury Christ Church University workshop:

The Medical Society had the privilege of taking part in an engaging and informative workshop hosted by Canterbury Christ Church University’s (CCCU) Health and Care Engagement team once again. This workshop provided an exciting and hands-on experience, giving us a deeper insight into the practical side of health and social care. Throughout the session, we rotated through six interactive stations, each designed to challenge us and enhance our understanding.

At Station 1, we tackled public health, estimating the sugar content in various products. From a tiny box of Cheerios to a giant can of Monster, we were shocked to realise how much sugar hides in everyday foods. Additionally, it raised a lot of awareness on the impact of nutrition on public health!

Station 2 focused on essential clinical skills, including measuring blood pressure and identifying veins for blood draws. We even got the chance to use stethoscopes, further educating ourselves in the practical aspects of healthcare.

Next, Station 3 provided a memorable experience where we were asked to wear an ageing suit complete with walking sticks and glasses. We had to complete basic tasks like walking and sitting down, which instantly reminded us of the challenges faced by older individuals. Let’s just say, we quickly learned that getting up from a chair becomes a full-body workout!

At Station 4, we had to wear glasses simulating various eye conditions, including cataracts and glaucoma. With these altered lenses, we attempted to complete a word search, which proved to be much more challenging than expected. It was a humbling experience that gave us insight into how different vision conditions can impact daily life.

In Station 5, we learned the lifesaving acronym DRS ABC (Danger, Response, Shout for help, Airway, Breathing, CPR/Circulation). We applied these steps during a simulation where we had to save ‘Bob’; using CPR and a defibrillator. It was both fun and educational, especially now knowing how critical these skills are in emergencies.

Finally, Station 6 wrapped up the workshop with an informative quiz. We tested our knowledge with fun facts about the human body. It was a great way to end the workshop on a fun note while still learning something new.

Overall, the workshop was not only an eye-opening experience but also a reminder of the vital role healthcare professionals play in our communities. We came away with a greater appreciation for the practical skills and knowledge required in health and social care as well as curiosity about the wide range of degrees and opportunities offered at CCCU in these fields.

Divine Augustine 12CK