Page 32 - Retail Pharmacy Assistants - October 2020

30 PATY STATE/TERRITORY WINNERS Q+A with 2019 PATY state/territory winners As the weather continues to warm up and as Covid-19 restrictions in some states and territories continue to ease, we’re seeing public sports events such as fun runs back on the calendar, albeit under a Covid-safe plan. This month we ask the 2019 Pharmacy Assistant of the Year Award state and territory winners for their top tips on maintaining energy levels and staying hydrated when increasing exercise. We also get their lowdown on their experience as PATY state/territory winners over the past 12 months Catherine Brandis, Western Australia – Bunbury Drive-In Chemist What are your top tips for maintaining energy levels and staying on top of hydration when increasing exercise or participating in sports events such as fun runs? Increasing energy levels through healthy living, a nutritious diet and hydrating the body before and after physical activity is vital. My top tips to assist energy levels are natural medicines that can assist in physical performance and lethargy, keeping active through daily walks and staying physically fit, getting enough sleep at night (at least eight hours), and acknowledging when there may be other contributing factors to low energy levels and actively seeking assistance from a healthcare professional. Using a rehydration formula that can be found at your local pharmacy means you’re using a reliable product to ensure your body receives appropriate hydration when you need it most. Rehydration products come in all forms – ice poles, premade drinks found in the fridge or on the shelf, tablets and powders that can be easily added to water when needed. What have been your most memorable experiences as this year’s PATY state/territory winner? What’s your advice to future PATY state/ territory winners? The first most memorable moment as the PATY WA winner was the experience of participating in the WA Workshop in Perth and spending a whole day with wonderful pharmacy assistants. This day was full of thought- provoking information and connecting with likeminded people. The next most memorable moment was having the opportunity to travel to Brisbane to compete and meet with the state/ territory winners. Being able to spend time with others who are just as passionate about pharmacy as I am was an amazing experience. I very quickly discovered the other state/ territory winners are all kind, intelligent and delightful people. Being able to share experiences and information and acknowledge everyone’s wins made us a supportive team. The training RETAIL PHARMACY ASSISTANTS • OCT 2020