Faith Mootseng: Emergency care practitioner

Working as an emergency care practitioner is an interesting and rewarding career choice, according to Faith Mootseng.

“We normally respond to emergencies in an ambulance and offer medical care to patients both on the scene and en route to a nearby hospital or medical facility,” she said.

Mootseng’s profession is physically and mentally demanding, given that she is saving lives.

“On a typical day, I work from 08:00 to 17:00, but ambulance hours are 12 hours, which is 07:00 to 19:00 during the day and the reverse during the night.”

When they are back at the base, waiting for emergency calls, they frequently familiarise themselves with new equipment or procedures, or just to know how things function on the bus.

Communication, problem-solving, decision-making and teamwork are essential skills for emergency care practitioner, also known as paramedics.

“Teamwork is critical because you will be working with people/colleagues all the time, so you must learn the art of operating as a unit,” she said.

“Be enthusiastic about helping people; in fact, all medical staff should enjoy assisting and caring for others.”