Trainee Clinical Scientist On Placement at DDRC

Catherine Dixon is currently attending the NHS Scientist Training Programme with the National School of Healthcare Science. The programme is based at North Bristol NHS Trust, Southmead Hospital. She recently completed a six week elective placement with DDRC Healthcare medical staff. She attended consultations and treatments for both emergency and routine patients.

What made you choose DDRC Healthcare for this placement?

“I have to admit I did not know much about Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT).  My parents noticed a promotional board on the Torpoint Ferry and thought the Hyperbaric Medical Centre looked very interesting. I made contact and my placement was arranged.”

What have you gained from being here?

“This placement was very much outside my normal scope of practice but with shadowing doctors and nursing staff I have gained a lot of knowledge. Patients seem very positive about their care and treatment plan and are clearly grateful for the care and support they get here. Having the opportunity for them to talk through their concerns with a doctor or nurse is invaluable.”

Deputy Medical Director, Dr Doug Watts also felt that we could learn from Catherine’s experience in respiratory physiology. “Catherine has helped us to look at our own respiratory testing in our medicals and suggested some improvements which we will implement. Placements such as these benefit both parties and we can learn from each other.”

Catherine’s hope is to continue studying in this area of expertise with a primary focus in ‘Respiratory and Sleep Sciences’.

If you are interested in talking to our Clinical Team about a possible short-term placement with us, do get in touch.