Inside the ER: A Day of Hands-On Training at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre

This week, I had the incredible opportunity to attend the inaugural ER training day at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, the world’s first-ever Level 1 trauma center outside the U.S., hosted by the Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto.

From touring the trauma bay to hearing from a panel of ER professionals, every moment was eye-opening. But the real highlight? Stepping into their shoes and practicing the very skills that save lives every day:

• Suturing wounds: Learning the delicate art of suturing required precision and patience. It was fascinating to see how different stitching techniques are used based on the severity and location of the wound.
• Intubation: Securing airways is one of the most crucial skills in emergency medicine. I practiced using an endotracheal tube and realized just how critical proper technique is when seconds determine survival.
• Ultrasound diagnostics: I was amazed at how quickly trained hands can locate internal injuries or guide medical procedures with real-time imaging.
• CPR & Stop the Bleed: Timing and technique are everything when responding to a cardiac arrest or massive hemorrhage. Practicing chest compressions and tourniquet applications emphasized just how intense real-life emergencies can be.

This hands-on training solidified my passion for medicine, reinforcing the importance of rapid decision-making and teamwork in life-or-death situations. Emergency medicine is both science and art, and I left the experience more motivated than ever to pursue a career in healthcare.