This is a recording from the Interactive CPD Symposium 2025 which hosted many presentations on a large array of topics. This session was hosted by Dr Alexander Wolkow and Laura Hirello. They discuss what sleep is and why it is important and then talk about how sleep can impact clinical decision making or influence a sick patient.
Biography: Dr Alexander Wolkow
Dr Alex Wolkow is a Research Fellow in the School of Psychological Sciences at Monash University. Dr Wolkow received his PhD from Deakin University. After completing his PhD, Dr Wolkow was awarded an NHMRC CRE NeuroSleep Fellowship to undertake postdoctoral training at Monash University. Since arriving at Monash University, he has been awarded an NHMRC Peter Doherty Early Career Fellowship and an ARC DECRA. At Monash, Dr Wolkow leads research that aims to better understand, and counteract, the impact of poor sleep and other workplace stressors on health, safety, and performance in high-risk occupations.
Biography: Laura Hirello
Laura Hirello is a Canadian paramedic from Halifax, Nova Scotia. She moved to Melbourne in February 2023 to pursue a PhD from Monash University. Laura’s research study, project ASAP, looks at how shift work and the resulting circadian rhythm disruption impact paramedics, their work performance, and their decision making. Prior to moving to Australia, Laura worked as an ambulance paramedic for 9 years before moving into healthcare project management and process improvement.
The College is the peak professional body representing and supporting paramedics and student paramedics across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand since 1973.
The College acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the traditional custodians of the land and sea in which we live and work, we recognise their continuing connection to land, sea and culture and pay our respects to Elders past, present and future.
The College acknowledges Māori as tangata whenua and Treaty of Waitangi partners in Aotearoa New Zealand.
