Thirty-five teenagers observed doctors and nurses treating a critically injured patient in a simulation exercise at Mackay Base Hospital last week.
The realistic e-scooter trauma scenario was one of many hands-on experiences during the Mackay Hospital and Health Service's High School Engagement Program, which welcomed Year 11 and 12 students from Mackay, Proserpine, Moranbah and Sarina.
Over two days, students traded the classroom for the hospital, gaining a behind-the-scenes insight into the diverse range of careers available across the health service.
Held twice a year, the program showcases both clinical and non-clinical professions through interactive demonstrations, practical activities and conversations with healthcare professionals.
Designed to inspire the next generation of healthcare workers, the program gives students a realistic understanding of hospital life while introducing career pathways they may never have previously considered.
The first day featured presentations on nursing, midwifery, medical imaging and mental health, alongside practical sessions where students donned surgical scrubs to retrieve chocolates from a mannequin during a mock operating theatre challenge. They also learnt basic life support skills and toured key areas of the hospital, including medical imaging, the Clinical Measurements Unit, and the food and linen services.
On the second day, students explored careers in medicine, research and allied health, hearing from professionals in speech pathology, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, dietetics and dental services.
They also watched a snakebite emergency simulation, learnt about the role of hospital pharmacists, and met paramedics while touring an ambulance.
Senior students from Mackay State High School, Catherine McAuley College, Mackay Northern Beaches High School, St Patrick’s College, Proserpine State High School, Sarina State, Holy Spirit Collee, Glenden State, Pioneer State, Whitsunday Anglican, Bowen State and Mackay North State High School attended.
By providing firsthand exposure to the breadth of careers within healthcare, the High School Engagement Program aims to inspire local students to consider returning to the region as the next generation of healthcare professionals.