“Stayin’ alive. Stayin’ alive ah ha ha ha stayin’ alive.” the Bee Gees create a great tempo for the 30 compressions and two rescue breaths timing for the CPR class this week. The EMS instructor is coordinating our movements for success preparing for a challenge in any environment and the staff is gaining skills not just for the cancer clinic but for life. “Another one bites the dust” is another option for pacing but I think she is just kidding. The hands on instruction for this refresher happened to be timely this week in the clinic.
If you’ve never taken CPR or are rusty (2 years), I strongly recommend taking the time to train in basic life support. You have energy and are fearless, so you know if needed, that you would spring to action. We are all life- long learners and take classes for every skill, why not one that could save a life? I thought I’d take this opportunity to provide general guidance on emergency response because in the chaos of a moment, someone needs to keep a cool head and make good decisions. As dramatic as a heart attack or stroke to a sprained ankle, there are many ways we find ourselves accessing the healthcare system in an emergency and I hope this helps.
When to call 911: Examples are: A significant fall, head injury, uncontrolled bleeding, chest pain and shortness of breath, seizure, syncope (unconscious) drug overdose, drowning are appropriate for medical emergencies. The EMTs have medications and electronics to treat in the home quickly then have direct access to the ER upon arrival- no waiting. Always state the problem and your address quickly- that info is immediately sent to your nearest response team while you are giving the dispatcher further information.
Out patient centers (privately or hospital owned) are procedure oriented: minor surgeries, endoscopies, radiology, low risk catheterizations, minor orthopedic procedures, biopsies. Most are accredited with board certified physicians who also serve on hospital staffs. These are never used for emergencies. They are for procedures with appointments. For significant emergencies, hospital is best where all equipment and specialties are readily available.
Urgi-centers: Many of these “doc in the box” units are springing up, often affiliated with a hospital to move less critical care into the community. They serve as a family doc open 24 hrs. Think “I have a problem but don’t need an ER”. These are fine if you need stitches, have a sprain, flu symptoms and are under age 70, or other minor ailments. You may be triaged to a specialist (ortho, cardiac, cancer center) or told to call your family doctor once the issue is assessed or treated. These centers are not designed to provide every level of care and have no specialists other than ER physician on call. Further rescuing requires a fully staffed hospital.
I am pleased that healthcare is moving closer to you, just be aware that these units are not meant to replace more comprehensive care. You always have the right to head to your nearest ER or to call rescue. Again, everyone should take CPR, especially if you are caring for children, have a pool, live near water or live with someone who is at risk. (your local hospital and YMCA often have classes for the public). Be familiar with first aide emergency handbooks. Preparing is the best plan. If you read this blog, you are most likely the person in control in a crisis, so others will look to you. Be ready.
We care about each other and sometimes you have to actually take care of another and “live to see another day”. You can make a huge difference. With knowledge, your bravery can protect a loved one or even save a life.