Tadiwa Mashavave

• I am actively involved in the day-to-day management of women’s health across both obstetric and gynecological settings. My role includes independently managing patients on the birth suite, performing Caesarean sections under supervision, and responding to obstetric emergencies. I also review gynecology and early pregnancy referrals from the Emergency Department, perform ward-based procedures, and contribute to decision-making in antenatal and postnatal care. In addition, I supervise junior doctors and medical students, and participate in teaching and audit to support ongoing clinical improvement.

• Developed my procedural roles including plastering, suturing
• Gained skills in Trauma response and management, particularly during the Finke races where the hospital experiences an influx of trauma patients

• Developed expertise in managing a wide range of medical emergencies, consistently delivering high-quality care to patients.
• Adapted quickly to the unique challenges of working in a rural setting, demonstrating resilience and resourcefulness in providing healthcare services
• Successfully completed night shifts independently, showcasing strong decision-making skills and the ability to work effectively under pressure.
• Completed a cert in Obstetrics Ultrasound and attended the Imminent Birth Workshop

• Independently conducted daily ward rounds and performed postpartum checks, including the placement of implanons before discharge, ensuring comprehensive and efficient patient care.
• Developing my suture skills in repairing peri tears; growing in confidence and knowledge in admitting patients from the ED
• Learning to practice safely and escalating care as appropriate, particularly during night shifts, where I worked as the sole doctor with a consultant on call.
• Completed my FSEP module

• During my General Medicine rotation, I gained confidence managing common conditions such as heart failure and acute coronary syndromes. I completed three weeks as the Ward Call doctor, including night shifts, overseeing medical, renal, and surgical inpatients. This term also deepened my understanding of cultural safety and inclusion, particularly while caring for a predominantly Indigenous population.
• In Emergency Medicine, I developed skills in trauma response and management, especially during the Finke races, which brought a significant increase in trauma presentations.

Across my clinical rotations, I developed a broad set of skills tailored to each specialty:

• General Medicine: I strengthened rapid decision-making and patient advocacy, particularly during two weeks on Ward Call as a first responder to MET calls and pages. I refined procedural skills like ultrasound-guided cannulation and received consistent positive feedback on teamwork, organisation, and clinical knowledge. I also served as a Junior Doctor Representative.
• General Surgery: I gained experience managing ward-based surgical issues, including high-output stomas, and improved efficiency during rounds. I developed suturing and theatre skills while regularly assisting as a second assistant.
• Obstetrics and Gynecology: I built confidence in independent decision-making in a supportive environment. I conducted gynecology and antenatal clinics, completed the RANZCOG Certificate of Women’s Health, assisted in Caesarean sections, and managed common presentations such as PPROM and reduced fetal movements.
• Emergency Medicine