Youth Red Cross Internship – Wenlock District Hospital

From February 3, 2025, to February 8, 2025, a group of students from different academic backgrounds had the opportunity to intern at Wenlock District Hospital, Mangalore. The students hailing from BCA, BA, B.Sc., and B.Com. programs were placed in various departments, gaining hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of the hospital’s functioning.

The one-week internship at Wenlock District Hospital, conducted as part of the Youth Red Cross initiative, was an enriching experience that provided practical exposure to various medical departments. Through our involvement, we gained firsthand insights into patient care, hospital administration, and the importance of teamwork in a healthcare setting.

Paediatrics: Interns assisted in managing patient flow by collecting OP cards, announcing patient names, and directing them to doctors. This role emphasized patience and effective communication, especially when dealing with children and anxious parents.

Casualty (Emergency Ward): Interns documented patient details, including ambulance numbers and arrival times, while also assisting with wheelchairs and stretchers. The fast-paced nature of this department highlighted the critical need for efficiency in emergency care.

Surgery: Interns observed and assisted in wound dressing, gaining insights into post-surgical care. They also documented barcode numbers for test samples, reinforcing the importance of medical documentation.

Orthopaedics: Interns managed patient records, coordinated X-ray appointments, and facilitated smooth doctor-patient interactions. This experience provided exposure to the treatment of bone-related ailments and the importance of diagnostic procedures.

ENT (Ear, Nose & Throat): Interns collected and organized patient OP cards, assisted in recording medical details, and ensured smooth patient flow. They also helped in language translation, improving patient-doctor communication.

Ultrasound Department: Interns managed patient files, ensured timely check-ups, and assisted doctors by organizing reports. The opportunity to observe different types of ultrasound procedures expanded their understanding of diagnostic imaging.

Medicine Department: Interns supported doctors by calling patients, organizing OP cards, and ensuring smooth consultation processes. They also observed how medications were prescribed and distributed.

Referral Department: Interns assisted in discharge procedures by verifying patient summaries and ensuring accurate documentation. This department showcased the administrative side of patient care, emphasizing the role of record-keeping in hospital management.

Reception & Token Distribution: Interns guided patients to their designated departments, assisted in issuing appointment tokens, and helped those unfamiliar with digital registration systems. This role reinforced the significance of patient assistance and organizational efficiency.

Insurance Department: Interns handled patient logbooks, verified discharge files, and assisted in insurance-related paperwork. They learned about government health schemes like Ayushman Bharat, which provided valuable insights into the financial aspects of healthcare.

Disability Certification: Interns helped process Unique Disability ID (UDID) applications by recording patient details and managing paperwork. This experience highlighted the importance of accessibility and specialized care for disabled individuals.

Additional Experiences & LearningsBeyond department-specific tasks, interns distributed magazines and newspapers to patients, attended educational sessions on blood donation, organ transplants, and public health initiatives. A visit to the Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU) offered a deeper understanding of critical care and patient management.

This internship was an eye-opening experience that extended beyond theoretical learning. It instilled in us a sense of responsibility, patience, and compassion. The opportunity to work in a real hospital setting reinforced our appreciation for the dedication of healthcare professionals. This experience has not only enhanced our knowledge but also strengthened our commitment to service and community welfare.