At DHU we like to share what our colleagues do and how their work makes the difference in the care we provide to you.
Today we would like to introduce you to Damian Wyatt who is a Trainee Advanced Practitioner based at Derby Urgent Treatment Centre. He has worked there for just over two years and been with us since we took on the contract to provide urgent care services from the UTC.
A paramedic by background, here’s what he told us about working here at DHU.
“At the UTC we see lots of different patients, sometimes for simple things like colds, coughs, very minor injuries that people could possibly treat themselves. Other times it’s more complex, serious problems such as sepsis, infections, bleeding injuries that require more attention and clinical expertise which is what we’re really here for.
“That’s what I like about my work, the variety is incredible, and you never know what might come through the door next. It reminds me of my time as a paramedic in the ambulance, you never know what’s around the corner so it’s prepared me well.
“I’ve almost finished my training to become an Advanced Practitioner, when that’s done, I’d like to explore to see what’s next. I’m keen to develop with DHU because they have been fantastic since taking on the UTC, providing me the training I needed to take on this role and supporting me, encouraging me to progress.
“I’m a firm believer in training and education and would love to move into doing more of that, perhaps a leadership role as well. I already do some training in resuscitation, phlebotomy and canulation, as part of my role. DHU is expanding all the time so there are opportunities out there and when they come, it’s up to me to grab them.
“I also like to educate our patients as well. The health system can be difficult to navigate and knowing where to go for the right treatment isn’t always easy. We’re here for urgent, but not life-threatening care so minor injuries, sprains, infections…things your GP or pharmacist can’t necessarily treat but we can.
“The strides we’ve made here, introducing things like point of care testing and diagnostic capabilities means we can do so much more without referring the patient to another part of the health system. That’s what it’s all about for me, helping our patients get the right treatment for them first time with minimal delays.”