Hello, my name is Martin Hodson. I’m a podiatry assistant in the diabetes and endocrinology department of a hospital.

I start my shift at 8.30am. I work between two rooms with two wound care specialists so I have to ensure that both the rooms are cleaned, any equipment is checked for faults before using and the trolleys are stocked with all dressings and other items needed. I also have them a cup of tea ready!

In the morning, my colleagues and I check what our patients are here for that day and what equipment will need to be used. Patients might come to us for follow up appointments, where my role is to dress the patient down (removing any bandages and dressings and then cleaning the area). This is done while my colleague is checking for any results (bloods, X-rays or MRI). My colleague will also then check the wound, and I will redress it.

We also assess new patients which involves checking medical history, past ulcers, and current medication. I will then perform procedures to check the patient’s feet. On a morning, I’ll also answer telephone calls and liaise with other professionals, such as medical imaging (professionals who take photos of the wound areas) and orthotics (professionals who measure patients up for footwear).

In the afternoon I ensure that the treatment rooms are cleaned again and that the treatment trollies are set up. I check which patients are due in and make sure I have the right equipment in place ready to use. On an afternoon we also have a consultant clinic, which is more in-depth for people with more serious wound issues.

At the end of the day I return any notes to reception area for processing, dispose of any confidential information in the confidential waste, clean down all areas and both treatment rooms, ensure the trollies are stocked ready for the next day, ensure the store room is tidy and that all rooms are locked.

What I enjoy the most about my role is the interaction with patients and their family members as well as attending to their wounds.

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Created
May 30, 2024
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