–after extensive 46-week training programme

AFTER 46 weeks of training, 21 soldiers are now equipped with the knowledge and skills to function efficiently as medical assistants.
This new batch of medical assistants will add to the strength of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF)’s Medical Corps.
Officers were drawn from units across the force for the training programme, and were able to successfully complete the Grade Three Medical Assistant Course 2020-2021.
The programme culminated on Wednesday with a simple ceremony at the Base Office Lecture Hall, Camp Ayanganna.
Lance Corporal Lorris Crighton, who received two of three awards presented to outstanding participants, was the Best Graduating Student. He also won the prize for best student in medicine.
Meanwhile, Lance Corporal Akeem Jordon received the award as runner-up to the Best Graduating Student.
In his address to the graduands, Base Commander, Major Andre Cush, congratulated the learners and acknowledged their dedication and patience.
“You have demonstrated these qualities by completing your course although it was extended by 16 weeks due to the pandemic. I expect you to efficiently and effectively employ that which you have learned at your various units.

“Be proud of yourselves. Being here means you have mastered the basics. You are now caregivers of the force. You must also remember that self-care is important. Never neglect your own health. Additionally, strive for betterment and continue to learn,” he advised.
Major Cush also charged the graduands to challenge themselves to set a personal standard of being the best caregivers.
In this regard, he said: “I look forward to hearing good things about you and I hope you take advantage of the COVID-19 vaccination drive to get vaccinated if you haven’t done so as yet.”
The course, which usually runs for 30-weeks, was extended due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and lasted for 46-weeks instead.
Training was divided into two terms, with the students being taught modules covering Basic Life Support/First Aid One, Human Anatomy & Physiology One, and Basic Clinical Nursing One.
During term two, they were taught Basic Pharmacology One, Basic Internal Medicine One, Field Sanitation One, and oral hygiene modules.
With this training, the new Grade Three Medical Assistants will be expected to provide quality nursing services to patients, apply their knowledge of the human anatomy and physiology, and administer lifesaving first aid. The new medical assistants are also expected to demonstrate knowledge of diseases and microbiology, exercise correct medical management or prepare patients for referral, use their pharmacological knowledge in the administration of drugs when treating diseases and other illnesses, and apply correct field sanitation procedures whenever deployed on exercises or bases.