All heroes need to occasionally take a break from their perpetual selfless sacrifice.
October 17 was International Trauma Day and Life Wilgeheuwel Hospital took the opportunity to show appreciation for all staff members associated with their trauma and casualty unit.
Choosing a carnival theme to bring a joyous serving of frivolous fun, the facility’s doctors, nurses and support staff recharged their batteries with sugar-laden candy floss, salted popcorn and saucy hot-dogs.
Medical practitioners working at the sharp end of emergency care are subject to horrific sights and sounds that only a select few professionals could digest.
The light-hearted de-stress session was a way for management to take a step in the right direction towards actively promoting positive mental health in the work place. Head of Department for the hospital’s emergency care, Dr Michael Waldeck, stressed it was important to celebrate the staff’s contribution to society and the significant change they bring to the lives of patients.
A key cog in the life saving machine, paramedics from the various companies that ferry the injured across town were also special guests. Known as pre-hospital care, paramedic crews have a tight bond with the trauma unit and because of that relationship are able to forewarn trauma units about what type of emergencies are bound for their gates.
“It is critical as we can prepare the patient to ensure that we get the best outcome,” stated Dr Weldeck.
International Trauma Day commemorates the work done by those who save and protect lives during the most critical moments. Their lives are dedicated to others and the small gesture of appreciation goes a long way in making it easier for them to continue being the public’s guardian angels.
