Kgothatso Legong, fourth year student at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, offers advice to fellow students following his first experiences of field service training. 

Swapping clinical wards for a tree shade. On those particular days, we went to visit patients at their homes instead of them coming to our workplace. It is part of our longitudinal service training to get another perspective of the people we deliver health care services to. We got transported to people who found it difficult to travel to the hospital just to reach us.

Here is what I came across in my field service training:

1. Patients were very happy to see us

During the days we saw patients at their homes or their place of work, they were very delighted to see us arrive. I spoke to patients who were overjoyed to be taken vital signs and be interpreted to them. “I do not have a blood pressure machine at home. Therefore, it becomes very difficult for me to monitor my blood pressure if I am on track,” a patient said. She continued to explain to me that she takes her health very seriously and adheres to the instructions she was given at the clinic. 

2. It might get dangerous in the field

With the high levels of crime, it is vital that medical students and healthcare professionals take necessary measures to protect themselves and property when going to do field work. Leave behind expensive electronic devices behind such as laptops and tablets if they are not required on the field. Expensive items of jewellery should also not be worn. Gold and diamond watches, flashy necklaces, and designer bags should be avoided. It is also important to notify someone or some people about your intended whereabouts, what time are you planning to go and what time might you return. Do a background check on the area you want to go to as well.

3. Equip yourself

Since we went to a field, we knew very well we will have limited resources to use. We had to take extra medical instruments with us. Thermometer, sphygmomanometer, weighing scale, glucose measuring machines, Snell’s chart, otoscope, ophthalmoscope, and stethoscope were some of the equipment we brought along. Point of care testing also came very handy when I did urine testing.

4. Prepare for external environment

As unpredictable the weather could be, you need to be ready. The importance of checking up next day’s weather focus cannot be over emphasised. If it is going to be sunny; sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and a two litres water bottle will carry you through the day. If rain is to be expected, always carry an umbrella, even if chances of rain are below thirty percent. Extra caution might need to be exercised with pieces of equipment you would be carrying if it happens to rain. On winter days, starting your morning with a hot beverage like coffee or tea is highly advised. Also dress warmly: warm gloves, long boots, and furry jacket will keep you nice and warm even if temperatures dip below zero. 

It is recommended that if the situation becomes difficult to deliver healthcare services, you are to consider rescheduling another time or change location to somewhere else. It is suggested to set up an appointment with the patient you will be visiting at their homes. You would not like it to travel all the way to someone’s home and not find them or find them ready for you.

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