Ambulance UK December 2017

Volume 32 No. 6

December 2017

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CONTENTS

CONTENTS

Ambulance UK This issue edited by:

241

EDITOR’S COMMENT

242

FEATURES

242 Identifying pre-hospital factors associated with outcome for major trauma patients in a regional trauma network: an exploratory study

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EDITOR’S COMMENT

EDITOR’S COMMENT Welcome to this issue of AUK It would be inappropriate to commence this piece with anything but a comment on the major terrorist incidents of the last two months.

It is at times like these that, while saddened by the twisted mentality of some individuals driven to commit atrocities against the innocent, that I wear my uniform with pride and reflect on the resilience of the ambulance service staff who go above and beyond to help in times of greatest need. It is too easy for the media to criticise failures and sensationalise situations caused by operational demand, rather the focus should be to accept that every day, every member of the emergency services are doing their best, the key message should be dignity and respect for that effort and support not condemnation.

Christmas is coming and most of you will have been working extra in order to pay for the (what feels like) 4 months of the Christmas period, Easter eggs are about to appear at that well known German supermarket and before you know it, the wrapping paper is in the bin and its just another day. So, a thought for those of you due to work the festive period, yes its busy, yes a lot of people drink too much and give you grief, yes you’ll miss Christmas dinner with the in-laws (that may be sad if unlike me your mother in law doesn’t arrive on a broomstick…) but without you there are a lot of people for whom Christmas memories might not be the happy and joyful ones that they should be.

Take care this Christmas, spend time with your families and friends, spare a thought for those that aren’t as fortunate and the friends and colleagues who aren’t here to celebrate with us. I hope the New Year brings you health wealth and good fortune.

Merry Christmas…

Sam English, Co-Editor Ambulance UK

AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

“It is too easy for the media to criticise failures and sensationalise situations caused by operational demand, rather the focus should be to accept that every day, every member of the emergency services are doing their best”

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FEATURE

IDENTIFYING PRE-HOSPITAL FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH OUTCOME FOR MAJOR TRAUMA PATIENTS IN A REGIONAL TRAUMA NETWORK: AN EXPLORATORY STUDY Lee Thompson1, Michael Hill2, Caroline Davies1, Gary Shaw1 and Matthew D Kiernan2 Scandinavian Journal of Trauma, Resuscitation and Emergency Medicine201725:83 https://doi.org/10.1186/s13049-017-0419-4

Abstract Background Major trauma is often life threatening and the leading cause of death in

Isolated bivariate associations provided tentative support for

the United Kingdom (UK) for adults aged less than 45 years old. This

response characteristics such as existing dispatching practices

study aimed to identify pre-hospital factors associated with patient

and the value of rapid crew arrival. However, these measurements

outcomes for major trauma within one Regional Trauma Network.

appear to be of limited utility in predictive modelling of outcomes.

Method

Discussion

Secondary analysis of pre-hospital audit data and patient outcome

The complexity of physiological indices potentially complicate their

data from the Trauma Audit Research Network (TARN) was undertaken.

predictive utility e.g. whilst a Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP) of <

The primary outcome used in analysis was ‘Status at Discharge’ (alive/

90 mmHg serves as a trigger for bypass to a Major Trauma Centre,

deceased). Independent variables considered included ‘Casualty

the utility of this observation is nullified in cases of Traumatic Brain

Characteristics’ such as mechanism of injury (MOI), age, and

Injury.

physiological measurements, as well as ‘Response Characteristics’

Analysis suggested that as people age, outcomes from major

such as response timings and skill mix. Binary Logistic Regression

trauma significantly worsened. This finding is consistent with

analysis using the ‘forward stepwise’ method was undertaken for

existing research highlighting the relationship between trauma in

physiological measures taken at the scene.

elderly patients and poorer outcomes.

Results

Conclusion

The study analysed 1033 major trauma records (mean age of 38.5

Findings lend further validity to GCS, Respiration Rate and Age as

years, SD 21.5, 95% CI 37–40). Adults comprised 82.6% of the sample

predictive triggers for transport to a Major Trauma Centre. Analysis

(n = 853), whilst 12.9% of the sample were children (n = 133). Men

of interactions between response times, skill mix and triage

comprised 68.5% of the sample (n = 708) in comparison to 28.8%

demand further exploration but tentatively support the ‘Golden

women (n = 298).

Hour’ concept and suggest a potential ‘load and go and play on the way’ approach.

Glasgow Coma Score (GCS) (p < 0.000), Respiration Rate (p < 0.001) and Age (p < 0.000), were all significant when associated with the

Keywords

outcome ‘Status at Discharge’ (alive/deceased).

Pre-hospital, Trauma, Outcome, Age, Timings, Response

Background Major trauma is often life-threatening and is the leading cause of death

trauma centres, trauma units, ambulance services and individual

in the UK for adults under 45 years [1].

clinicians to benchmark their trauma service with other providers across the country. The combination of TARN with the RTN pre-hospital

AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

In April 2012, after reports identifying the need for specialist trauma

database enabled the creation of a meaningful dataset and allowed for

care, Regional Trauma Networks (RTN) were introduced across the

a more comprehensive exploration of factors relating to pre-hospital

UK which enabled ambulance services to bypass local emergency

trauma care. A key consideration in this analysis was understanding the

departments and transport severely injured patients direct to definitive

epidemiology of a trauma system whilst taking into account the unique

care at specialist Major Trauma Centres [2, 3].

geographical features and demography of the region. Understanding the local regional major trauma epidemiology through this preliminary

Following the introduction of the local RTN a regional pre-hospital

and exploratory study, with the intention of providing a baseline from

trauma registry was created. This data was combined with outcome

which to evaluate future performance, would potentially identify trends

data from the national trauma registry maintained by the Trauma

and ultimately improve patient outcomes.

Audit Research Network (TARN) [4]. TARN is a national organisation that collects and processes data on moderately and severely injured

The aim of this study was to explore the pre-hospital casualty and

patients in England and Wales. TARN data allows networks, major

response factors associated with major trauma outcomes in a RTN.

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FEATURE

Fig. 1 Criteria for patient entry into pre-hospital database

Methods The study analysed combined data from TARN and RTN pre-hospital

which included response and transport times, crew skill mix and triage

database for the North East (England) Ambulance Service producing

practices.

a comprehensive dataset of regional major trauma patients. The entry Within the sample there was a small number (n = 36, 3.5%) of

can be seen in Fig. 1. Ethical approval for the study was granted via

casualties who were not classified as major trauma at initial triage,

Northumbria University Research Ethics Review Panel. Reporting of the

but were retrospectively included into the sample because they were

study followed the STROBE guidelines [5].

later identified as meeting major trauma criteria. All ‘under-triaged’ patients managed at the Major Trauma Centres or Trauma Units were subsequently entered into the database.

Study period and population The sample comprised of data collected between 1st of April 2012

The regional ambulance service covers an area of 8365 km2 serving over 2.71 million people in a mixed geography of rural and urban

and 30th September 2012 with each patient record within the dataset

areas and receives over 1.5 million emergency and urgent calls per

containing 69 variables. The study identified two groups of variables:

annum. The RTN, at the time of the study, had 9 Trauma Units and 2

‘Casualty Characteristics’ obtained from patient care records, which

Major Trauma Centres. There are 2 Helicopter Emergency Medical

included physiological measurements, age, MOI etc.; and ‘Response

Service (HEMS) bases within the region which are charity-funded and

Characteristics’ obtained from Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) records,

each aircraft is staffed by Doctors qualified in Pre-Hospital Emergency

AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

criteria for patient inclusion within the RTN pre-hospital database

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FEATURE

Fig. 2 Major trauma triage protocol

Medicine (20 part-time doctors and 4 in training) and Paramedics (11 full-time equivalents). These aircraft do not fly at night, or when weather restricts visibility, but crews are able to respond to calls via a rapid response vehicle during these times. At the time of this study HEMS teams were available to respond on a Friday and Saturday night utilising a rapid response vehicle.

Data analysis Descriptive statistics were used to characterise the study sample in terms of casualty and response characteristics. Categorical and ordinal variables were expressed as proportions and continuous variables expressed as means with standard deviations.

Paramedics within the RTN are trained and educated to carry out

The primary outcome measure used in causal analysis was ‘Status

multiple interventions for trauma patients. These interventions

at Discharge’ (alive/deceased). Independent variables were loosely

include advanced airway management (endo-tracheal tube

grouped into two sets;

intubation and supraglottic airways), needle decompression of pneumothoraces and intravenous and intraosseous access.

(i) casualty characteristics e.g. age and physiological indices, and

The application of haemorrhage control devices (tourniquets, haemostatic gauze) as well as Tranexamic Acid and immobilisation/

(ii) response characteristics e.g. skill mix and transport time.

splinting devices are also available to pre-hospital paramedics.

Whilst there were multiple recordings of physiological indices for most

AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

HEMS doctors within the region are also trained to manage

patients within the study, the set employed for analysis purposes

cardiothoracic trauma up to and including resuscitative

were the observations used by the attending crew in their pre-alert or

thoracotomy, peri-mortem C-section, rapid sequence induction

alternatively, those observations that prompted the use of the major

(RSI) and the administration of blood products (although blood

trauma triage tool shown in Fig. 2. Preliminary bivariate analysis was

products were not on the aircraft at the time of this study).

undertaken in order to explore relationships between these factors and outcome ‘Status at Discharge’ (alive/deceased).

Hazardous Access Response Team (HART) Paramedics are also available within the region to access patients at height, in water or in remote or difficult locations. At the time of the study there

Major trauma triage protocol

were 58 ambulance stations throughout the region with over 500 Paramedics who work alongside emergency care assistants and

To adjust for collinearity and potential amplification bias a binary

technicians.

logistic regression analysis was undertaken with the outcome ‘Status

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FEATURE Table 1 Demographics, crew attendance, timings and triage Age in years

Years [SD] (95% CI)

Mean

38.5 [21.5] (37–40)

Missing

86

Adult/Child <17

n (%)

Adult

853 (82.6)

Child <17

133 (12.9)

Missing

43 (4.2)

Sex

n (%)

Male

708 (68.5)

Female

298 (28.8)

Missing

23 (2.2)

Pre-hospital Traumatic Cardiac Arrest (TCA) – Active Resuscitation

n (%) 30

Died on scene

7 (23)

Transported to hospital

23 (77)

Alive at discharge

3 (10)

Died in hospital

18 (60)

Missing

2 (7)

In hospital deaths from pre-hospital major trauma (Not pre-hospital TCA)

n (%) 43 (4)

Attended by

n (%)

HEMS

168 (16.3)

Land Crews

844 (81.7)

Missing

17 (1.6)

Crew arrival times

Minutes [SD] (95% CI)

Mean

12 [13.5] (11–13)

HEMS

14 [11.5] (12–16)

Land Crews

11.5 [13.5] (10.5–13)

On scene times

Minutes [SD] (95% CI)

Mean

36 [19.5] (35–37.5)

HEMS

51.5 [21.5] (48–55.5)

Land Crews

33.5 [18] (32.5–35)

Transport time

Minutes [SD] (95% CI)

Mean

17 [11.5] (16–17.5)

HEMS

13 [9.5] (11–14.5)

Land Crews

17.5 [12] (16.5–18.5)

Time to definitive care (999 call to arrival at receiving facility)

Minutes [SD] (95% CI) 65 [27] (63–66.5)

HEMS

78 [23] (73.5–81.5)

Land Crews

62.5 [27] (60.5–64.5)

Triage

n (%)

Correct triage

744 (72.0)

Under triage

36 (3.5)

Over triage

248 (24)

Missing

5 (0.5)

AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

Mean

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FEATURE Table 2 Relationship of Independent variables associated with outcome ‘Status at discharge’ (Alive/Deceased), obtained using bi-variate analysis Independent Variable

Test Statistic

df.

p

GCS

t = −10.222

44.15

Respiratory Rate

t = −5.241

43.55

Systolic BP at Scene

t = −3.027

37.52

p ≤ 0.004

Age

t = −5.464

738

p ≤ 0.000

Transport Time

t = −2.085

685

p ≤ 0.037

Skill Mix

u = 18,239

-

p ≤ 0.036

Triage

u = 19,959

Mean Difference

95% CI(Lower)

95% CI(Upper)

2 Relationship variables associated with outcome ‘Statu p ≤ 0.000 Table7.28 scale points of Independent 5.845 8.715 bi-variate analysis p ≤ 0.000

p < 0.000

at Discharge’ (alive/deceased) as the dependant variable. Only

8 per min.

Independent Variable 11.4 mmHg GCS 17.8 years Respiratory Rate −3.78 min Systolic BP at Scene Age Transport Time

5 Test Statistic 11.46 t = −10.222 11.47 t = −5.241 −7.14 t = −3.027 t = −5.464 t = −2.085

57.7 44.15 24.24 43.55 - 0.21 37.52 738 685

12

Skill Mix

u = 18,239

-

p

Me

p ≤ 0.000

7.2

p ≤ 0.000

8p

p ≤ 0.004

11

p ≤ 0.000

17

p ≤ 0.037

−3

p ≤ 0.036

-

Triage u = 19,959 p < 0.000 and indicated a moderate relationship between prediction and grouping.

-

df.

independent variables that were individually associated with the outcome ‘Status at Discharge’ (alive/deceased), at a p ≤ 0.05 level were

Step 2 Nagelkerke’s R2 (59.8%) the model included ‘GCS’ score and ‘Age’

entered into the binary logistic regression model. All candidate predictor

and indicated a stronger relationship between prediction and grouping.

variables were entered into the model using a forward stepwise method, and each variable’s contribution to the overall fit was estimated using

Step 3 the final model included ‘GCS’, ‘respiratory rate’, and casualty’s

likelihood ratio tests. Analyses were undertaken using the Software

‘age’ and indicated that these factors are significant predictors of

Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS; Version 22, IBM Inc.; Armonk,

outcome ‘Status at Discharge’ (alive/deceased) (X2 = 155.902, p < 0.000). The other four candidate predictors, ‘transport time’, ‘triage’,

NY, USA).

‘skill mix’ and ‘systolic BP’, were not significant.

Results

‘GCS’, ‘age’ and ‘respiratory rate’ were all significant at the 5% level (‘GCS’ – p < 0.000; ‘age’ - p < 0.000; ‘respiratory rate’ - p < 0.001).

The study sample consisted of 1033 patient records that met the prehospital major trauma triage protocol criteria, as shown in Fig. 2. Table

The odds ratio (OR) were as follows: ‘GCS’ was 1.587 (95% CI: 1.374–

1 highlights descriptive analysis of demographic characteristics of the

1.833); ‘Age’ was 0.923 (95% CI: 0.894–0.952); ‘respiratory rate’ was

sample group and key emergency response characteristics.

1.165 (95% CI: 1.067–1.272). The model correctly predicted 99.3% of the variability of an ‘Alive’ outcome, and 67.6% of ‘Deceased’ outcome at

Bivariate analysis revealed that a number of variables were significantly

discharge, giving an overall percentage correct prediction rate of 97.4%.

associated with outcome ‘Status at Discharge’ (alive/deceased) shown in Tables 2 and 3.

Discussion Binary logistic regression analysis

The findings of this study suggest that physiological measures taken at the scene are of greater predictive utility than are emergency

In order to address problems of collinearity and the potential for amplification bias, binary logistic regression was undertaken for 571 casualties using outcome ‘Status at Discharge’ (alive/deceased) as the dependant variable. Analysis proceeded on the basis of ‘listwise’ exclusion, and this resulted in a total of 462 cases being excluded from the analysis sample (N = 1033). Variables were entered into the model

Table 3 Results from binary logistic regression analysis of predictor variables for outcome ‘Status at Discharge’ (alive/ considered for inclusion in the binary logistic regression model were deceased)

on the basis of the ‘forward stepwise’ method. All candidate variables AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

individually associated with the outcome ‘Status at Discharge’ (alive/ Significant Variables within the predictive model deceased) at the p ≤ 0.050 significance level.

Variable Wald P Odds Ratio Step 3 GCS 39.662 p ≤ 0.000 1.587 (95% CI: 1.374–1.833) A test of the full model against a constant only model was statistically Age p ≤ 0.000 0.923 (95%distinguished CI: 0.894–0.952) significant, indicating that the25.097 predictors as a set reliably Respiratory Rate (X11.553 p ≤ 0.001 (95% CI: 1.067–1.272) between alive or deceased 2 = 103.862, p ≤ 1.165 0.000).

Collectively, all

seven candidate predictors “explained” 94% of the variability in ‘Status at Discharge’ (alive/deceased).

services response characteristics. Specifically, GCS, respiration rate, and age formed significant elements of the predictive model. Further analysis suggested that as people age, outcomes from major trauma significantly worsened. This finding is consistent with existing research highlighting the relationship between trauma in elderly patients and poorer outcomes [6, 7, 8].

Table 3 Results from binary logistic regression analysis of predictor variables for outcome ‘Status at Discharge’ (alive/ deceased) Significant Variables within the predictive model Variable

Wald

P

Odds Ratio

Step 3 GCS

39.662 p ≤ 0.000 1.587 (95% CI: 1.374–1.833)

Age

25.097 p ≤ 0.000 0.923 (95% CI: 0.894–0.952)

Respiratory Rate 11.553 p ≤ 0.001 1.165 (95% CI: 1.067–1.272)

Step 1 Nagelkerke’s R (45.8%) the model included ‘GCS’ score only 2

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FEATURE Almost all previous studies with regard to physiology and trauma were

outcomes. The tendency to over-refer casualties to Major Trauma Centres

exclusive to the in-hospital setting [9, 10, 11, 12]. The evaluation of pre-

is perhaps an artefact of the precautionary principal in action.

hospital physiological variables as predictors of trauma outcome has, hitherto, been neglected. However, it should be noted that the inherent complexity of physiological indices (and their significance) potentially complicate their predictive utility e.g. whilst a Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP) of <90 mmHg serves as a trigger for bypass to a Major Trauma Centre, the utility of this observation is nullified in cases of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). Recent research [13] has identified that each 10 mmHg reduction in SBP is associated with an 18% increase in mortality when SBP falls below 120 mmHg. These findings should make us reconsider the hypotensive threshold for the isolated TBI patient group.

Emergency services response characteristics most often form the basis for Key Performance Indicators (KPI’s) for ambulance service delivery and evaluation: For example, the UK Department of Health requires ambulance services within England to respond to Red (life threatening calls) within 8 min regardless of rural or urban location [14]. The rise of evidencebased medicine has brought with it the unintentional consequence of ‘therapeutic nihilism’ [15], in which failure to establish supporting evidence for an intervention is (incorrectly) interpreted as a warrant for therapeutic inertia. The pressures to ‘do nothing’ are further exacerbated during times of fiscal austerity, where being unable to unequivocally establish an evidence base can underpin the further erosion of service standards such as crew response times. In terms of the current study, it would appear that (abnormal) physiological measurements, possibly as a reflection of the

Limitations The study was conducted during the spring and summer months and does not account for seasonal variations which may have affected mechanism of injury, available flying time (daylight in northern UK is 18 h in the summer and 6 h in winter) and driving conditions due to adverse weather during the winter months (snow and ice). There is a strong likelihood of ecological and confounding relationships within the current data set. Whilst bivariate analysis such as is reported above can reveal interesting associations, the large number of degrees of freedom involved, the potential for collinearity and amplification bias by means of multiple comparisons using the same variables would risk Type I errors.

As is the case with all uses of secondary data, analysis is constrained by the fact that data are collected for purposes other than the researcher’s intentions [24]. Furthermore, the large number of personnel involved in data collection inevitably potentiates the risk of poor inter-rater reliability [25]. Whilst mortality data serves as an absolute binary outcome measure, morbidity data is less tangible [26]. Further research is required in order to understand the utility of the predictor variables considered in this paper in predicting morbidity outcomes, especially in the case of life-changing morbidity.

severity of trauma and nature of the physiological insult, underpin the most accurate predictive model of mortality outcomes.

Existing research considering the impact of timings and skill mix is markedly limited to consideration of on-scene times and predominately focused on the impact of physician led teams in prolonging ‘on-scene’ times [16, 17, 18, 19]. These studies have typically added fuel to the ‘stay and play’ or ‘load and go’ debate and highlight the ‘golden hour’ of immediate care [20, 21]. However, the typical lack of standardisation in how ‘on-scene’ times are defined and recorded raises valid questions concerning the potential generalisability of these findings beyond the context in which individual studies were undertaken. In the context of the current study, HEMS teams took longer to arrive on scene, compared to land based resources, had extended ‘on-scene’ times and longer overall mean time from emergency call to arrival at receiving facility.

As previously noted, HEMS teams have a wider scope of practice and are able to initiate additional interventions such as RSI. More widely, the huge variation in scope of practice between professions in different regions and countries [22] makes direct comparisons difficult. Although pre-hospital timings were extended for HEMS teams, compared to land based teams, this study did not examine whether the presence of HEMS

This study identifies that local pre-hospital major trauma predominantly affects the male population with the mean age of 38.5 years. Further research is required in order to more fully understand the predictive utility of age in determining major trauma outcomes and possibly to allow the generation of age-specific triage criteria.

Contrary to current English ambulance performance targets, this study identified that there is greater predictive utility in relation to outcome from physiological measures taken at the scene than emergency services response times which, paradoxically, comprise key performance indicators for service delivery.

Rather than interpreting this finding as a warrant for the therapeutic nihilist instruction to abandon targets, we conclude that further analysis is required in order to establish the value of response characteristics in relation to morbidity outcomes and the alleviation of suffering.

The authors tentatively suggest that given the lack of evidence for

time to Computerised Tomography (CT) scan [23].

emergency services response characteristics as predictors of mortality

Significantly, within this study it was noted that those major trauma

transport might be advocated.

outcomes, a ‘load and go and play on the way’ approach to patient

casualties who were correctly triaged were more likely to have poorer outcomes. This finding may suggest that crews are using existing triage practices in order to correctly classify trauma severity. Whilst some

Abbreviations

patients are incorrectly over triaged and transported to a Major Trauma Centre and some major trauma patients inappropriately under triaged and

CAD: Computer aided dispatch

transported to local hospital emergency departments, these eventualities

CT: Computerised tomography

did not appear to be statistically associated with significantly adverse

GCS: Glasgow coma score

AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

improved timings for ongoing management such as time to theatre or

Conclusions

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FEATURE 13. Spaite DW, Hu C, Bobrow BJ, et al. Mortality and prehospital blood pressure in patients with major traumatic brain injury: implications for the hypotension threshold. JAMA Surg. 2017;152(4):360–8.

HART: Hazardous access response team HEMS: Helicopter emergency medical service KPI: Key performance indicator MERIT: Medical emergency response incident team MOI: Mechanism of injury MTC: Major trauma centre

14. Turner J, O’Keeffe C, Dixon S, Warren K, Nicholl J. The costs and benefits of changing ambulance service response time performance standards. Sheffield: University of Sheffield; 2006.

15. Starr P. The politics of therapeutic nihilism. The new critics of medical care. Hast Cent Rep. 1976;6(5):24–30.

NEAS: North east ambulance service NHS: National health service

16. Carr BG, Caplan JM, Pryor JP, Branas CC. A meta-analysis of prehospital care times for trauma. Prehosp Emerg Care.

2006;10(2):198–206.

RSI: Rapid sequence induction RTN: Regional trauma network SBP: Systolic blood pressure

17. Carr BG, Brachet T, David G, Duseja R, Branas CC. The time cost of prehospital intubation and intravenous access in trauma patients.

Prehosp Emerg Care. 2008;12(3):327–32.

TARN: Trauma audit research network TBI: Traumatic brain injury UK: United Kingdom

18. Di Bartolomeo S, Valent F, Rosolen V, Sanson G, Nardi G, Cancellieri F, Barbone F. Are pre-hospital time and emergency department disposition time useful process indicators for trauma care in Italy?

Injury. 2007;38(3):305–11.

Authors’ Affiliations 1 North East Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust, Trauma Desk, Bernicia House, Goldcrest Way 2 Northumbria University

19. Dissmann PD, Le Clerc S. The experience of Teesside helicopter emergency services: doctors do not prolong prehospital on-scene times. Emerg Med J. 2007;24(1):59–62.

20. Harmsen AMK, Giannakopoulos GF, Moerbeek PR, Jansma EP, Bonjer HJ, Bloemers FW. The influence of prehospital time on trauma patients outcome: a systematic review. Injury.

2015;46(4):602–9.

21. Lerner EB, Moscati RM. The golden hour: scientific fact or medical “urban legend”? Acad Emerg Med. 2001;8(7):758–60.

References 1. Sukumaran S, Henry JM, Beard D, Lawrenson R, Gordon MW, O’Donnell JJ, Gray AJ. Prehospital trauma management: a national study of paramedic activities. Emerg Med J. 2005;22(1):60–3.

2. National Confidential Enquiry into Patient Outcome and Death.

Trauma: who cares? : a report of the National Confidential Enquiry into Patient Outcome and death (2007). London: National Confidential Enquiry into Patient Outcome and Death (NCEPOD); 2007.

3. National Audit Office. Major trauma care in England. London: National Audit Office; 2010.

4. Trauma Audit and Research Network: TARN. [https://www.tarn. ac.uk/]. Accessed 18 Aug 2017.

5. Vandenbroucke JP, von Elm E, Altman DG, Gøtzsche PC, Mulrow CD, Pocock SJ, Poole C, Schlesselman JJ, Egger M, S.I. Strengthening the reporting of observational studies in epidemiology (STROBE): explanation and elaboration. PLoS Med. 2007;4(10):e297.

22. Eckstein M, Chan L, Schmeir A, Palmer R. Effective prehospital advanced life support on outcomes of major trauma patients. Am J Emerg Med. 2000;19(5):439–40.

23. Garner AA, Mann KP, Poynter E, Weatherall A, Dashey S, Puntis M, Gebski V. Prehospital response model and time to CT scan in blunt trauma patients; an exploratory analysis of data from the head injury retrieval trial. Scand J Trauma Resusc Emerg Med. 2015;23:28.

24. Bulmer M. Why Don’t sociologists make more use of official statistics? Sociology. 1980;14(4):505–23.

25. Cicchetti DV. Assessing inter-rater reliability for rating scales: resolving some basic issues. Br J Psychiatry. 1976;129(5):452–6.

26. Bowling A. Measuring health: a review of quality of life measurement scales. Maidenhead: Open University Press; 2004.

6. Cox S, Morrison C, Cameron P, Smith K. Advancing age and trauma: Triage destination compliance and mortality in Victoria, Australia. Injury. 2014;45(9):1312–9.

7. Kehoe A, Smith JE, Bouamra O, Edwards A, Yates D, Lecky F. Older patients with traumatic brain injury present with a higher GCS score than younger patients for a given severity of injury. Emerg Med J. 2016;33(6):381–5.

AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

8. Kehoe A, Smith JE, Edwards A, Yates D, Lecky F. The changing face of major trauma in the UK. Emerg Med J. 2015;32(12):911–5.

9. Lin G, Becker A, Lynn M. Changes in vital signs of trauma victims from prehospital to hospital settings. J Paramedic Pract.

2011;3(10):558–62.

10. Victorino GP, Battistella FD, Wisner DH. Does tachycardia correlate with hypotension after trauma? J Am Coll Surg. 2003;196(5):679–84.

11. Ocak G, Sturms LM, Hoogeveen JM, Le Cessie S, Jukema GN. Prehospital identification of major trauma patients. Langenbeck’s Arch Surg. 2009;394(2):285–92.

12. MacLeod JBA, Maurico L, McKenney MG, Jeroukhimov I, Cohn SM. Predictors of mortality in trauma patients. Am Surg. 2004;70(9):805–10.

248 For more news visit: www.ambulanceukonline.com

FEATURE

LIFE CONNECTIONS 2018 NEW REGIONAL VENUES, NEW SPEAKERS, NEW TOPICS In order to save potential delegates travelling time and costs

VAT) to include lunch, tea/coffee, free parking etc, however those

which can sometimes prove to be expensive, the organisers of

attending both morning and afternoon Conferences will be offered

Life Connections are replacing their annual two day event with a

a combined rate of £48 inc VAT Lunch etc. Thanks to the generosity

series of one day multi conference / workshop events next year that

of WEL Medical, we are able to offer CFR delegates attending the

will be taking place in Harrogate (March 15th), Bristol (June 21st),

CFR Conference a delegate rate of just £18 including VAT.

Aylesbury (September 6th) and Stoke on Trent (October 25th).

For those wishing to take full advantage of each event, @PHCCINFO Each event will comprise of four separate half-day Conferences

who are one of the largest providers of trauma and airway training to

with programmes being created for the benefit of Paramedics,

pre-hospital personnel, are running a Basic to Advanced Trauma

Resuscitation Officers, Community First Responders and First Aid

Skills Workshop from 09.30-12.30 which incorporates Trauma Patient

Trainers. To date, a number of topical presentations have been

Assessment, Catastrophic Bleeding, etc. and, a Basic to Advanced

accepted which include: End of Life Care, Why Trauma Patients

Airway Skills Workshop in the afternoon from 14.30-17.30 which

Die, Futile Resuscitation, Epilepsy Awareness, Impact Brain

includes Direct & Video Laryngoscopy, Emergency Surgical Airways,

Apnoea and Head Injuries, Burns - Timing is Everything, Using

etc. A third Workshop, presented by Paul Savage OBE, entitled Seven

Simulation as a Learning, Teaching and Assessment Tool,

Ways to Die in Cold Water which incorporates submersion, drowning

Fracture NOFs and Fascia Lillaca Compartmental Blocks,

and hypothermia also forms part of our Bristol event taking place from

Trauma in the Elderly, Dealing with Traumatic Events, National

09.30-12.30 and repeated in the afternoon from 14.30-17.30.

Disasters/Terrorist Incidents, Disaster Response Paramedic The Nepal Earthquake Experience, Advanced Airway

Only 12 places are available on each Workshop at a cost of £48.00 per

Management, Leadership and Management, Deteriorating Patient

person (incl VAT), to include lunch, tea/coffee, free parking, etc. For

- Could It Be Sepsis?, Decision Making in Cardiac Arrest, First

Paramedics, Resuscitation Officers and First Aid Trainers attending their

Aid - The Need for Effective Teaching and Learning, Just how bad

respective conferences a combined conference/workshop rate of £60

are your Clinical Skills? Can Ultrasound Help?, Understanding

will be offered. For CFRs attending their morning Conference plus an

Kids That Limp (which incorporates septic arthritis, inflammation,

afternoon workshop a combined rate of £48 will apply, all rates include

malignancy) etc plus many more. Each individual event programme

VAT, tea/coffee, etc. Please advise relevant staff that as places are

can be viewed on www.lifeconnections.uk.com.

limited on all Conferences and Workshops, early registration is advised to avoid disappointment - to view all programmes and secure your

The delegate rate for our Paramedic, Resuscitation and First Aid

delegate place, please visit: www.lifeconnections.uk.com or call the

Conferences at each venue has been set at £30 per person (incl

Organisers Office on: 01322 660434.

AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

www.lifeconnections.uk.com

249

ADVERTISING FEATURE

EVER CONSIDERED LIVING AND WORKING IN THE SOUTH WEST?

The South West is an attractive and beautiful part of the country and a great place to live and work. South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust provides accident and emergency services throughout the South West region. The areas we cover include Bath and North East Somerset, Bristol, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, Devon, Dorset, Gloucestershire and South Gloucestershire, Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire.

We are the largest ambulance service in the UK, covering one-fifth of the country, including some of its most beautiful and life enriching locations. Whether you crave a coastal location, the best of the British countryside or the historic cities of Bath, Exeter, Bristol and Cheltenham to name but a few, the South West provides the best of everything.

Join us and you will find an ambulance service that understands; the better we look after you, the better equipped youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be to look after our patients. We listen and work with our staff to ensure a progressive, clinically advanced service which takes account of feedback, organisational learning, providing staff with the equipment and support necessary to help them fulfill their demanding roles.

Our diverse geography, including some remote rural communities, has driven our ambition to equip all our staff with the training, support and skills they need to deliver a higher level of care. This enables more of our patients to be treated closer to home; resulting in the lowest conveyance rate across the ambulance sector.

AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

Our commitment to supporting our staff is evidenced by our better-than-average staff survey results; and in our commitment to a dedicated clinical career framework, which supports the development of Paramedics into specialist and/or managerial roles. The success and internal career progression of many of our existing staff is testament to the importance we place on growing, developing and supporting our workforce.

250 For further recruitment vacancies visit: www.ambulanceukonline.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE With over half the county designated as an Area of Outstanding

every member of staff makes a real difference to improving the service

Natural Beauty, no one can deny that Dorset is truly something

we offer to the community that we serve, with a wide range of career

special. Dorset’s amazing natural features include Durdle Door, Pulpit

pathways from support staff to the frontline.

Rock, Golden Cap, Lulworth Cove and Chesil Beach. The county also boasts 5 country parks too.

Here are just a few of the benefits of working for SWASFT:

With miles and miles of sandy beaches, some of the best weather in

• Contributory NHS Pension Scheme which offers free life cover,

the UK and the longest life expectancy in Britain, Dorset makes for a

ill health and redundancy benefits, a tax-free lump sum on

happy home. And along with our picture postcard villages, the vibrant

retirement and an index-linked retirement benefit that is based

towns of Bournemouth, Poole, Dorchester and Weymouth are bursting

on final salary and number of years in the scheme. For more

with places to eat, drink and shop.

information please visit NHS Pensions • Occupational Health, Counselling and Physiotherapy Services • Childcare voucher scheme • Occupational sick pay scheme • Travel expenses • Job share opportunities • Career break schemes • Flexible retirement (NHS Pensions www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/Pensions) • Staff commendations and awards • Discounts on products and services (Healthservice Discounts www.healthservicediscounts.com) • Staff development/robust training and development • Appraisals/active encouragement of life long learning Picture courtesy of Poole Tourism

• Flu protection • Lease Car (where appropriate)

Benefits of becoming a Paramedic with the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust: • The most clinically advanced Trust within the UK • Permanent and bank opportunities available • One of the most beautiful parts of the country

Candidates need to be enthusiastic, reliable, self-disciplined, flexible and confident enough to take control of situations. You need to enjoy helping people whilst understanding their needs and treating them with dignity and respect.

We are particularly interested in recruiting Paramedics in the DORSET area. For further information about joining SWAST please see our recruitment advertisement on the inside back cover of this edition.

• Lowest conveyance rate in the UK • A better work-life balance • Structured career pathway SWASFT, like the whole of the NHS, is committed to being a model rewarding all staff according to their skills and experience and giving equal opportunities to all, and treating everyone with dignity and respect. It also means helping staff to develop their careers by providing training and development, while keeping the right balance between work and their other commitments and interests.

South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust not only offers a team working environment, which focuses on delivering and improving

AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

employer. This means offering excellent working conditions. It means

patient care, with a culture of social responsibility, trust and accountability;

251 Do you have anything you would like to add or include in Features? Please contact us and let us know.

NEWSLINE TVAA

Thames Valley Air Ambulance commits to expand the service Thames Valley Air Ambulance introduces a new operating model for the provision of its advanced medical care in 2018.

Next year will be a pivotal year in the history of Thames Valley Air Ambulance as they take responsibility for their clinical governance and provide an

of their clinical team. TVAA

and availability of this acute

with SCAS to deliver the highest

are passionate and driven to

service and are committed

level of care to patients by

constantly improve patient care.

to continuing to enhance this

bringing the expertise of the

provision to meet the needs

hospital to the roadside to

Over the last few years, the

of the public that they serve.

enhance patient outcomes”.

specialism of Pre-Hospital

However, this is becoming an

Emergency Medicine (PHEM)

increasing challenge in times of

Dr Syed Masud, Medical Director

has developed both regionally

heightened financial pressure

TVAA, said; “TVAA are delighted

and nationally. The development

on NHS organisations. Over

to have been able to reach this

of PHEM has changed the

the last few months TVAA have

point and are confident that

access all patients receive to

worked to identify a solution that

this future model and our close

healthcare, be it acute, chronic

will allow them to continue to

working relationship with SCAS

or immediate. TVAA has worked

expand and enhance the vital

will allow us to continue to

with South Central Ambulance

service they provide across

enhance the critical care service

Service (SCAS) to enhance

Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and

to meet the need of the public

the care provided to its most

Oxfordshire.

that we serve”.

immediate and critically injured patients who often require

Amanda McLean, CEO TVAA

specialist interventions and

explains; “Thanks to the

advanced critical care across the

actions. These include the

generous support TVAA receive

Thames Valley.

formal addition of doctors,

from the public, we are now

on scene blood transfusions,

in a position to move to a new

Thames Valley Air Ambulance

rapid diagnosis and the ability

operating model and assume

When South Western

(TVAA) is an incredibly well

to perform emergency surgical

responsibility for clinical

Ambulance Service crews

supported charity committed

procedures on the roadside.

governance and the delivery of

were called to Boscombe

advanced critical care across the

Pier, Bournemouth they had

expansion to the provision of

to enhancing patient care

SWAST

Man saved after swallowing fish

through innovation, research and

TVAA and SCAS have worked

Thames Valley. We will continue

no idea what they would find

continued training and education

hard to improve access

to work in close collaboration

when they got there.

AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

252 For more news visit: www.ambulanceukonline.com

NEWSLINE Their only information was

was total airway occlusion and

that a man had started

despite best efforts he was not

choking and had now stopped

receiving any oxygen.

breathing.

Matt Harrison said that reWith the first clinician on scene

assessment of the patient once

in less than two minutes, friends

in the ambulance indicated

directed the crew along the

further deterioration and we

dimly-lit pier, where another friend

once again began to lose

was already performing CPR, as

cardiac output. ‘It was clear

directed by the calm emergency

that we needed to get the fish

medical dispatcher on the line

out or this patient was not going

from the 999 control room.

to survive the short journey to

Four things in one pack, one less thing to think about

Royal Bournemouth Hospital.

Initial assessment by Specialist

I used a laryngoscope to fully

Paramedic Matt Harrison

extend the mouth and throat

confirmed that the patient was

and saw what appeared like

in a desperate situation, with

an altered colour of tissue in

a blocked airway and was

his throat. Using a McGills

now in cardiac arrest. As the

forceps I was able to eventually

paramedics questioned the

dislodge the tip of the tail and

friends further, it appeared that

very carefully, so as not to break

the 28 year old had been joking

the tail off I tried to remove

around with a fish he had just

it - although the fish’s barbs

caught. The patient had put the

and gills were getting stuck on

fish over his mouth but the fish

the way back up. I was acutely

wiggled free, promptly jumping

aware that I only had one

straight down the patient’s

attempt at getting this right as

throat causing a complete

if I lost grip or a piece broke off

obstruction.

and it slid further out of sight then there was nothing more

Martyn Box the Operations

that we could have done to

Officer who also attended the

retrieve the obstruction.’

incident said “The boys were giving really good CPR on our

Eventually after six attempts

arrival as instructed by the

the fish came out in one piece

Control room staff. Initially we

and to our amazement it was a

didn’t know the true extent of

whole Dover Sole, measuring

the situation or what the patient

approx. 14cm in length.

was choking on, but as we questioned them further we

Matt Harrison said “I have

were told he had a whole fish

never attended a more bizarre

stuck in his windpipe’.

incident and don’t think I ever

www.i-gel.com

will – but we’re all so glad the patient has no lasting effects

already stopped, we continued

from his cardiac arrest, which

CPR and achieved the return of

could so easily have had

a pulse after about 3 minutes,

such a tragic and devastating

and then transferred the patient

outcome’.

quickly by stretcher to the Upon arrival to Royal

ambulance.

Bournemouth Hospital Further assessment of the

Emergency Department the

patients’ airway indicated that

patient had responded well

despite artificially ventilating

enough to be able to answer

him with a bag and mask,

a few basic questions, which

the patient’s chest remained

was a huge relief and sense of

silent, suggesting that there

achievement for us all.

Quality, innovation and choice

AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

As the patient’s heart had

253 AMBULANCE_UK_09_17_igel_o2_half_page.indd 1 Do you have anything you would like to add or include in Newsline? Please contact us and let us know.

20/09/2017 11:21

NEWSLINE may closer to someone requiring

cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)

Armed Response Officers are

Blue Light Services Launch Life-saving Co-responder Scheme

the most urgent medical care than

and defibrillation are undoubtedly

deployed across the Force area on

the nearest available paramedic.

the most important steps in the

a daily basis and routinely patrol

The officers are already trained to

chain of survival and are time critical.

West Yorkshire, attending both

provide life-saving emergency care

We have a responsibility to ensure

firearms-related calls as well any

and carry defibrillators as part of

we explore every available option to

other appropriate demand. Since

West Yorkshire’s Firearms Officers

their standard kit.

improve clinical outcomes for our

the scheme began, the team has

patients and we are delighted to be

achieved a Return of Spontaneous

In line with strict criteria, a team

working in partnership with West

Circulation (the return of cardiac

of two Firearms Officers are

Yorkshire Police on this scheme

activity with a measurable blood

despatched to patients in cardiac

which has already had a positive

pressure and a palpable pulse)

or respiratory arrest at the same

impact on patient care. Firearms

with five patients in cardiac/

time as an ambulance and do

Officers, who routinely patrol West

respiratory arrest, including the first

not replace the usual emergency

Yorkshire, already have the skills

patient they attended.

The joint initiative between Yorkshire

medical response from YAS. Their

and equipment, so the collaboration

Ambulance Service NHS Trust (YAS)

location within local communities

made perfect sense.

and West Yorkshire Police aims to

means they could be nearer to

help patients in cardiac or respiratory

the scene in those first critical

“The demand placed upon blue

Operations Support section, said:

arrest. The emergency co-responder

minutes, delivering life-saving

light emergency services increases

“There is big misconception that

scheme has been activated 40

care until an ambulance clinician

every year and our approaches to

armed officers only do anything

times since its introduction on 5

arrives. However, if the armed

providing the best response and

when a call comes in around

September 2017 – and five patients

officers were already deployed to

best patient outcomes available

weapons, and that simply isn’t

have been successfully resuscitated

an existing police incident, or a

are continually evolving. By

the case. These are exceptionally

and transported to hospital with a

high priority police incident occurs

exploring innovative and alternative

well-trained individuals who, as

cardiac output.

at the same time, they would not

ways of working with all partners,

well as being specially trained

be diverted to the ambulance call.

together we can ensure our service

firearms experts, first and

remains responsive and safe and

foremost are police officers whose

YAS

are now responding to certain lifethreatening medical emergencies at the same time as an ambulance to give patients the best possible chance of survival, thanks to the launch of an innovative scheme.

Armed officers are routinely

Superintendent Mark McManus of West Yorkshire Police’s

deployed on proactive patrol across

Paul Stevens, Head of Community

this will lead to even more lives

primary instinct and duty will

West Yorkshire which means they

Resilience for YAS, said: “Early

being saved.”

always be to help people.

AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

254 For further recruitment vacancies visit: www.ambulanceukonline.com

NEWSLINE “As part of their regular and intensive training, firearms officers receive ‘tactical medical training’ in order to offer emergency care in the varied and potentially unique situations they may find themselves attending.

“Our support of YAS is in addition to the standard response of the ambulance service, and is all around the timeliest intervention so more lives can be saved. This isn’t us taking on ambulance calls; this is about using the exceptional training our teams have to make a real difference when they are not attending other emergency police calls.

The reality is this may only be a couple of calls a week, but if in doing so they can save lives, it’s undoubtedly a positive thing.

“There are many occasions where our armed teams have given specialist trauma care to victims of the most serious road traffic collisions, or helped keep someone alive who may have attempted selfharm. These medical skills are vitally important and through this fantastic piece of partnership working, they can use these skills to help save the lives of people across the county.

“This new joined up approach is just another example of how we continue to work closely with our blue light partners to give the best possible service to our communities.”

Department of Health selects FREQUENTIS control room software

The Department of Health has selected the Frequentis 3020 LifeX integration platform as a replacement for the current Integrated Command and Control System (ICCS). The Control

The 3020 LifeX, designed as multimedia collaboration platform, will be hosted at Crown Hosting Data Centres to provide a highly resilient national solution for all of the English Ambulance Trust control room operators and with an option for Scotland and Wales too. With a capacity for almost 700 concurrent users, the system will be the largest ICCS in the UK. The system will not only allow the control centre staff to communicate with the ambulances on the current Airwave network, but also the new ESN once it is operational. It will also provide a map-based view of the location of all ambulances, to compliment current systems and provide another layer of resilience for the most critical of services.

This new approach to the provision of critical services for an Emergency Services’ control centre allows for flexibility and innovation to meet any future requirements and the enhancement of operational processes and procedures. Even though the system is national and can be enhanced on this basis, Frequentis understands the need for individual Trusts’ to operate in their own way and will therefore ensure local requirements are also catered for.

“We are extremely pleased to be working with Frequentis to deliver the LifeX software.

Delivering the largest ICCS in UK will be a challenge, however we are confident that Frequentis are the right provider to enable us to deliver a solution that will greatly assist the Ambulance Trusts’ dispatch capabilities.

Realising the benefits of the new Emergency Services Network (ESN) is vital and the flexibility inherent with LifeX will enable Trusts to transition to ESN whilst

maintaining inter-operable communications with other Trusts, Police and Fire” – Duncan Bray, Head of Programmes – Ambulance Radio Programme.

With the introduction of ESN over the coming years, ambulance dispatching and the communications with staff will change and the potential use of multimedia will evolve. Having a “single” system will enable the evolvement to be managed and implemented in a more cost effective and efficient way.

Frequentis’ expertise in providing safety-critical communication and information solutions is well-known in the industry. In February 2016, Frequentis won the International Critical Communications Awards (ICCA) in the category “Best use of TETRA for Public Safety” for its best practice voice communication system implemented for the Bavarian Police during the 2015 G7 Summit in June. Furthermore, at the 2016 Critical Communications World, Frequentis won the “Future Tech Award” for its Unified Radio Gateway (URG) solution.

“The Frequentis 3020 LifeX software platform was designed for the approach required by the UK Ambulance Trusts. The “private cloud” infrastructure, intuitive web-based frontend and ability to integrate numerous third party systems means a single national solution can meet the specific needs of the individual Trusts. This brings the benefits of scale without compromising the individual’s needs.” Says Robert Nitsch, Public Safety Director at Frequentis

EEAST

Defibrillator donated in memory of 18-year-old A lifesaving device has been donated to a Norfolk school in memory of a former student.

Paul Pottle and his family raised

money for the new defibrillator at Drayton Community Infant School following the sudden death of his son earlier in the year.

Eighteen-year-old Thomas Pottle, an apprentice at Ben Burgess in Norwich, collapsed whilst at work in January and went into cardiac arrest. Despite the best efforts of ambulance, air ambulance, and hospital staff, he sadly passed away.

On Tuesday 10th October Paul and Andrew Barlow, Norfolk Community Collaboration Manager for the East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust (EEAST), attended an assembly at the infant school to talk about the defibrillator donation.

Paul said that there were also plans for a community public accessible defibrillator to be installed outside the Maids Head Hotel in Tombland, Norwich. He added that all of Thomas’ former schools already had defibrillators.

“We did not know anything about defibrillators until this happened and we were thrown into this world. They are becoming more and more prominent, but we need to make people more aware.

“It has given us something to focus on and it has been painful at times, but we wanted to give something back for the children and for the community. If it is used once and saves a life, then it has done its job.”

A defibrillator is used to shock a heart into restarting when a patient collapses and goes into cardiac arrest. The ambulance service will be returning to Drayton Community Infant School to train staff on how to use the lifesaving device.

Andrew added: “Early cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and use of a defibrillator dramatically increase the chances of survival of a patient in cardiac arrest. I’d like to praise Paul for fundraising for these lifesaving devices.”

AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

Cloud-based infrastructure from Frequentis will assist the UK Ambulance Trust with its evolution to an Emergency Service Network (ESN)

Room Software (CRS) project required a new approach to the provision of radio dispatch for the UK Ambulance Trust using a cloud-based model. The system will enable the Trust to be ready to transition to the United Kingdom’s Emergency Services Network (ESN).

255 For all your equipment needs visit: www.ambulanceservicesuppliers.com

NEWSLINE NWAS

North West Ambulance Service supports patients to stay well this winter North West Ambulance Service (NWAS) will be helping people to stay well this winter by sharing important health information with patients travelling on the Patient Transport Service (PTS).

PTS staff will be making the most of time spent transporting patients to and from appointments by taking the opportunity to hand out leaflets about the seasonal flu vaccination. The leaflets include information about who is eligible for the free vaccination and who to speak to for further advice.

Over 1.5 million patient journeys are undertaken by PTS every year, supporting patients across Lancashire, Merseyside, Greater Manchester and Cumbria, to get to and from non-emergency

“The whole NHS system

He is making a strong recovery

highlighting the great work of

sees pressure over the winter

after spending two weeks in

the ambulance staff.

months, with more people

the cardiac unit at the Norfolk

visiting A&E and being admitted

and Norwich University Hospital

“I did not know how to do CPR

to hospital. We hope that

and having an implantable

before and I am looking forward

sharing health advice can help

cardioverter defibrillator (ICD)

keep people well and avoid

to the training. I am back at

fitted in his chest.

work now and playing football at

them having to go to hospital.”

Roger now wants to give The initiative is part of

something back by raising

Transforming Patient Care, a

awareness of the value of

two-year programme that will

lifesaving CPR and having

see NWAS make a number of

accessible defibrillators in

developments to services to

public places.

improve care for patients.

On Monday 16th October, he

Cardiac arrest survivor organises lifesaving lesson

returned to the Sportspark after organising a CPR training event on Restart a Heart Day. Staff from EEAST were on hand to teach lifesaving skills.

A cardiac arrest survivor will

across the UK to teach as many young people as possible CPR. Last year, 150,000 young people across the UK took part in the largest ever CPR training event of its kind.

lifesaving lesson.

Collaboration Manager for

said he owed his life to the

Norfolk, said: “Every second

Roger Baines, a senior lecturer

many “incredible” people

counts when someone is in

at the University of East Anglia

who rushed to his aid and

cardiac arrest and early CPR

(UEA) in Norwich, was playing

the “outstanding” treatment

and use of a defibrillator

football at the UEA Sportspark

he received at every stage.

dramatically increase the

on 28th March when he felt

He particularly praised his

chances of survival. We are

dizzy and collapsed.

“magnificent seven” from the

looking forward to training as

Sportspark - Chris Lynch, Tom

many people as possible on

and trained Sportspark staff

Anna Linsmith, and Iain

who performed cardiopulmonary

Kermode.

time by helping to share

all of the ambulance services

Andrew Barlow, Community

Nathan Hearn, PTS Contract

make even better use of that

Ambulance join forces with

Translation Studies academic,

Warren, Matthew Critchfield,

We recognised we could

British Red Cross and St John

language and Applied

his quick-thinking teammates

different patients every day.

British Heart Foundation, the

heart stopped to deliver a

medical appointments.

we spend time with many

Resuscitation Council (UK), the

Roger, who is a French

Dart, Luke Coping, James

nature of our service means

On Restart a Heart Day, the

return to the place where his

The 51-year-old was saved by

Delivery Manager, said: “The

the Sportspark again,” he said.

resuscitation (CPR) and shocked him once with a defibrillator

“For me this is the perfect

before the arrival of East of

way of bringing together the

England Ambulance Service

Sportspark staff who were

NHS Trust (EEAST) and East

instrumental in saving my life,

Anglian Air Ambulance staff.

training other people, and

important health messages

Restart a Heart Day.” Andrew Lockey, Honorary Secretary of the Resuscitation Council (UK), said: “For this year’s Restart a Heart day, we will see unprecedented numbers of young people being taught the vital lifesaving skill of CPR. Endeavours ranging from individual effort through to

and information about locally

nationally coordinated activity

available services.

will show that there is a desire

AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

to improve the chances of

“To start with, we’re giving out

survival for victims of cardiac

information about the winter flu

arrest. Everyone can be a

vaccination so that our patients

lifesaver and the skills are easy

know all about it and where to get

to learn, either online or with

it. Many of the people who use our service have existing medical

face-to-face training. Most

conditions or are over the age

cardiac arrests happen in the

of 65, which means they are at

home, so everyone should

greater risk of complications from

ensure that they are those

flu and can have the vaccination

around them are skilled up to

free of charge.

save a life.”

256 For more news visit: www.ambulanceukonline.com

NEWSLINE NEAS

North East Ambulance Service recognised for investing in staff North East Ambulance

NEAS, which employs more

proud of our workforce and

training processes, introduced

than 2,600 people and handles

the care they deliver and the

a staff benefits booklet

the region’s NHS111 and 999

difference they make day in,

highlighting the rewards for

calls as well as providing a

day out.

working within our service.

service, was assessed by IIP

“We want NEAS to be a great

“Achieving this accreditation

over the summer and has now

place to work, with a highly

received the first level of IIP

skilled, healthy, engaged

is an objective, external

standard, ‘developed’.

and motivated workforce

clinical care and transport

Service (NEAS) has achieved

endorsement that we have the right principles and practices in

delivering excellent patient

national Investors in People

Particular strengths were

care. With this in mind we have

accreditation in recognition

identified as:

worked incredibly hard as an

of its commitment to its

years to ensure we invest in and

• Encouraging high

develop them.

performance • Adopting a culture of

people management, defining and manage people effectively

to develop a set of behaviours • Creating autonomy in roles

to achieve sustainable results.

Underpinning the standard

“To date this work has included working with our employees

recognition

what it takes to lead, support

that we can use as part of

is the Investors in People

working

framework, reflecting the latest

not stopping there and are now advanced level standard by 2020.”

Paul Devoy, Head of Investors in People, said: “Investors in

our recruitment, induction • Enabling collaborative

expected of them. But we’re working towards receiving the

Investors in People (IIP) is the international standard for

these effectively so that people and leaders know what is

organisation over the last few

workforce.

place and have communicated

and appraisal processes as

People accreditation is the

well as building a leadership

sign of a great employer, an

and management programme

outperforming place to work

workplace trends, essential

Yvonne Ormston, NEAS Chief

which can be used throughout

and a clear commitment to

skills and effective structures

Executive, said: “Working for

all levels of our organisation.

success. North East Ambulance

required to outperform in any

the ambulance service is more

We have also reviewed and

Service should be extremely

industry.

than a job and we are incredibly

improved our induction and

proud of this achievement.”

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257 Do you have anything you would like to add or include in Newsline? Please contact us and let us know.

NEWSLINE WAST

Welsh Ambulance Service trains 12,000 school pupils in Wales on Restart a Heart Day 2017

Across the UK as a whole it is

to 73% in Norway where the

Every second counts, and it simply

hoped that 150,000 young people

survival rate is considerably higher.

isn’t enough to hope that someone

will learn the skill as part of the

The evidence in favour of members

who knows CPR is present.

mass CPR training day.

of the public learning CPR is obvious. So by having as many

“Restart a Heart Day is an annual

Currently in the UK, less than one

secondary schools as possible

day to increase awareness of

in ten (8.6%) people survive a

taking part in Restart a Heart Day

the importance of CPR. We need

cardiac arrest. The BHF predicts

2017, it has enabled our staff and

everyone in Wales to learn this

that if the UK achieved the same

volunteers to pass on their skills

life-saving skill to give them the

Up to 12,000 school students

survival rates reported in countries

to pupils who will then have this

confidence to step in and give

have been taught lifesaving

like Norway (25%), where CPR is

valuable skill for life.”

CPR when someone collapses

skills as part of a national

more widely taught in schools,

campaign.

an additional 100 lives could be

The event was organised in

saved each week - the equivalent

conjunction with the Resuscitation

“That’s why we are urging

of approximately 5,000 every year.

Council (UK), the BHF, which

secondary schools across the UK

provides the training equipment

to apply for our free training kits and help create a Nation of Lifesavers.”

During Restart a Heart Day 2017 on Monday 16th October,

after a cardiac arrest.

approximately 60 secondary

Dr Brendan Lloyd, Medical

free of charge as part of its

schools were shown how to carry

Director for WAST said: “Many

Nation of Lifesavers campaign,

out CPR by more than 200 Welsh

people don’t realise that if

St John Ambulance and Welsh

Ambulance Services NHS Trust

someone suffers a cardiac arrest

Ambulances Services NHS Trust.

(WAST) staff and volunteers.

in front of a bystander, who

All of the UK’s 13 ambulance

immediately starts CPR before the

trusts have been working in

They used training DVDs and

arrival of the ambulance service,

partnership to hold simultaneous

inflatable manikins provided by

their chances of survival double.

CPR training events to mark

the British Heart Foundation (BHF)

Restart a Heart Day 2017.

SAS

Caledonian Truck and Van clinches contract to support Scottish Ambulance Service

to give young people across

“Currently in the UK, bystanders

Wales the skills to help someone

only get involved in doing CPR in

First Minister Carwyn Jones

who has suffered a cardiac arrest.

43% of cardiac arrests, compared

visited pupils at Llanishen High

The people of Scotland are

School, Cardiff to watch a CPR

assured of safe and reliable

training session while the Cabinet

transport when they need it

Secretary for Health, Well-being

most, following the introduction

and Sport Vaughan Gething

this year of more than 150 new

attended Sir Thomas Picton

Mercedes-Benz ambulances.

School, Haverfordwest.

Sprinter models bearing the First Minister Carwyn Jones said:

famous three-pointed star now

“When someone collapses after

account for well over half of the

a cardiac arrest, every second

Scottish Ambulance Service fleet.

counts. Knowing simple CPR skills is vital to ensure you can give that

Supplied by Caledonian Truck

person, loved-one or stranger, the

& Van, the latest vehicles are all

best chance of survival.

5.0-tonne Sprinter 519 CDIs with muscular 190 hp six-cylinder

“I’m very impressed by the

engines.

numbers of school pupils taking

AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

part in Restart a Heart across

The overwhelming majority are

Wales and I’m pleased to see how

front-line accident and emergency

the Welsh Ambulance Service,

ambulances. Most are now in

BHF, St John Ambulance and

service, with the last few due to

schools are providing life-saving

start work in the coming weeks.

skills to young people.”

Also hitting the road are seven

PRO M VE A 2 B

W I T H

D I G N I T Y

Adam Fletcher, Head of British

primary and secondary response

Heart Foundation Cymru, said:

units, four of them all-wheel

“CPR may be the difference

drive variants with extra ground

between life and death for

clearance, and three specialist

hundreds of people who every year

vehicles for dealing with

in Wales suffer a cardiac arrest.

contamination incidents.

258 For further recruitment vacancies visit: www.ambulanceukonline.com

NEWSLINE with Scottish Ambulance Service

Steven Moore, Senior Specialist

on understanding exactly what

Operations Manager, said: “The

they need to ensure their vehicles

training conducted is graphic and

are as effective as possible in

hectic to match the environments

emergency situations.

our staff will go into should an incident like this occur. We try to

Completing the order, the authority will shortly take delivery of three paediatric ambulances,

“The most important thing is

make sure everyone involved is

that these vehicles have to save

aware of what they may come

people’s lives, so it’s a very

across in this role by conducting

complex process to spec such a

a variety of training exercises that

specialist vehicle.

cover a wide range of scenarios.

“Reliability is absolutely key and

“It’s also vital we work closely

the quality of Mercedes-Benz

with our fire and rescue

very capable and offers all the

engineering and technology

colleagues, as well as police.

performance we need, while also

ensures that, while we also provide

These will be the people entering

being impressively economical.”

24-seven technical support from

the warm zone of any incident

our bases around Scotland.”

and stepping into harm’s way to

commissioned specifically for carrying injured and ill children.

help those in urgent need. We

Like all Mercedes-Benz vans, Scottish Ambulance Service’s

Trevor Spowart, Scottish

Sprinters are back by three-year,

Ambulance’s General Manager

unlimited mileage manufacturer’s

Fleet Services, said: “The Sprinter

warranties. “This cover is another

is the only vehicle that meets all

important attribute, as it underpins

of our exacting requirements for

our intensive use requirements,”

performance, reliability and payload

added Mr Spowart.

capacity, while we also benefit from Caledonian Truck & Van’s strong

Scottish Ambulance Service

after sales support. Our ambulances

employs a staff of more than

average 1,000 miles per month and

4,500 who serve the five million

no other vehicle stands up as well to

people living on the country’s

such a tough working life.”

mainland and islands.

EEAST

Ambulance specialists leading the way in training for challenging major incidents

are making sure our teams are as comfortable as possible in these dynamic and challenging environments to best prepare them for what may happen.”

Inspector Mike Austin of Norfolk Police said “These days are

Ambulance specialists are

a very good opportunity to

leading the way in training for

work with our colleagues

challenging major incidents.

from the Fire and Rescue and ambulance services. Working

The East of England Ambulance

together in real situations

Service Trust (EEAST) Special

operationally, sharing resources

Operations team have been

and making sure we have the

conducting a wide range

appropriate communication in

of training with the Trust’s

place and working practices,

specialised clinicians.

so in the event of a situation

He continued: “The weight of

Caledonian Truck & Van’s account

their fully equipped box bodies

manager Vyga Mikuckis said the

means the emergency response

very specific requirements and

ambulances are already heavy,

high standards required by the

even before you factor in a patient

emergency service meant that

With the threat of catastrophic

and crew. This, coupled with the

no stone had been left unturned

events higher than ever in the UK,

need to make rapid progress

in order to find the right type of

the Trust’s Specialist Operations

during ‘blue light’ incidents, means

vehicles.

Station Commander Stuart Smith,

Team has been conducting a 12-

NILO at Cambridgeshire Fire

week training programme for staff

and Rescue Service, said: “It’s

and external partners for sudden

great to work with our emergency

impact events.

service colleagues and develop

a powerful engine is essential.

The Sprinter’s smooth V6 is

“We have worked very closely

taking place we are more than prepared to deal with it.”

best practice for large scale incidents. We always hope these

Team (HART), Specialist

type of situations never occur but

Operations Response Team

training like this is vital to ensure

(SORT) and the Ambulance

we’re best ready as a team of

Intervention Team (AIT) have been

emergency responders to deal

working to develop expertise

with real life situations.”

of critical incidents, such as marauding terrorist firearms attack

This training is part of a wider

(MTFA) by carrying out training

programme of training of

focussing on planning, procedures

development undertaken by the

and execution of operations in a

emergency services throughout

variety of environments.

the year.

AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

The Hazardous Area Response

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AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

260

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For further recruitment vacancies visit: www.ambulanceukonline.com

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261

NEWSLINE Future of Lifesaving Midlands Air Ambulance Is Underway To support future lifesaving air ambulance operations, Midlands Air Ambulance Charity is investing in a new, upgraded helicopter, which will enter the fleet in January 2018.

Work is currently underway on the new, larger H145 Airbus helicopter, which was originally built at Airbus’ headquarters in Donauwörth, Germany. It undertook its first flight earlier this month as it travelled to the UK to undergo a medical equipment fit out at Midlands Air Ambulance Charity’s aviation partner, Babcock Mission Critical Services’ headquarters in Staverton, Gloucestershire.

Hanna Sebright, chief executive for Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, said: “We are pleased that progress of the new stateof-the-art H145 helicopter is on schedule. We made the strategic decision to invest in the larger, £7 million, helicopter to further develop our clinical and operational service, to allow us to continue to offer exceptional prehospital patient care.

“We are in a position to purchase the new airframe thanks to on-going support from our loyal fundraisers within the communities we serve, and a £1 million grant from the banking fines. The investment will improve the organisation’s long-term resilience and sustainability by further reducing overall operating costs.”

Registered as G-RMAA, the new helicopter will become operational in January 2018 from the charity’s RAF Cosford airbase in Shropshire.

The new air ambulance helicopter will provide a great number of benefits to patient care within the Midlands. It will be able to travel greater distances without the need for refuelling and enable the aircrew to respond even faster due to increased speed capability. The larger interior means additional aircrew can be flown to major incident scenes, and will also enable improved medical equipment to be carried on board to treat more complex emergencies.

EEAST

Father thanks his lifesavers after drama at the dogs A father-of-two praised his “heroes” in green after being reunited with the ambulance staff who helped save his life.

Luke Chapman, who lives on the Essex-Hertfordshire border, was watching the greyhound racing at

The charity currently owns one EC135 helicopter, and leases two further EC135 models from Babcock Mission Critical Services. The charity will retain one leased aircraft, while the second leased aircraft will be replaced by G-RMAA.

Yarmouth Stadium, in Norfolk, with

For more information about Midlands Air Ambulance Charity and how to support the organisation, please visit www. midlandsairambulance.com or call the team on 0800 8 40 20 40.

Thankfully, Luke’s sister-in-

AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

262 For more news visit: www.ambulanceukonline.com

his family on 29th April when he collapsed.

The 43-year-old’s heart had stopped and he urgently needed life-saving treatment.

law Rebecca Chapman, a physiotherapist, knew how to do cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and paramedic Harriet Sutherland and University of East

NEWSLINE The changes, known as the

• Category 2 – is for emergency

Ambulance Response Programme,

calls. These will be responded

(ARP), were announced by NHS

to in a mean average time of 18

England in July and follow the

minutes and at least 9 out of 10

largest ambulance clinical trials in

times before 40 minutes. Stroke

the world.

patients will fall into this category and will get to hospital or a

The clinical evidence, highlighted

specialist stroke unit quicker

by an initial 18-month trial of ARP,

because we can send the most

showed that out of 14 million

appropriate vehicle first time.

999 calls managed within the

• Category 3 – is for urgent calls.

pilot, there were no patient safety

In some instances, patients in

issues or concerns.

this category may be treated by ambulance staff in their own

Anglia (UEA) student paramedic

and talking so soon after his heart

Sophie Murgatroyd were minutes

stopped.

away in a response car.

“From getting the call we were at Following three shocks from a

the stadium within three or four

defibrillator, Luke was resuscitated

minutes and 15 minutes later he

and was sitting up and talking to

was sitting up. Good early CPR and

medics and his family within 20

early defibrillation was the key. It is

minutes of his heart stopping.

good to see him looking so well.”

Luke, who remembers nothing of the

One of Luke’s sons sold sweets

event, returned to Yarmouth Stadium

at school and raised £150, which

on 6thNovember to thank staff from

has been donated to the East

the East of England Ambulance

of England Ambulance Service

Service NHS Trust (EEAST) and staff

Charitable Funds.

from the venue who helped him.

He told them: “The fact that I am here today is because of you. You are real heroes and you do this every day and rarely get thanked.

Thank you is not enough.”

SECAMB

Trust set to introduce new national ambulance response standards

The change is strongly

home. These types of calls will

endorsed by a number of expert

be responded to at least 9 out

organisations including the Royal College of Emergency Medicine,

of 10 times before 120 minutes • Category 4 – is for less urgent

the Stroke Association and the

calls. In some instances,

College of Paramedics.

patients may be given advice over the telephone or referred

Changing the performance

to another service such as a

standards, which were introduced

GP or pharmacist. These less

in 1974, will improve efficiencies

urgent calls will be responded

and free up ambulance crews to

to at least 9 out of 10 times

respond to emergencies. Vehicles

before 180 minutes

are often dispatched to respond to patients in less than eight

SECAmb Executive Director of

minutes but most patients do not

Operations, Joe Garcia said:

need this level of response. The

“ARP and the new ambulance

new standards will enable the

response standards will help us

Trust to send the most appropriate

to better meet the clinical needs

response to each patient, first

of our patients rather than simply

time, while continuing prioritise

a time-driven target. We will also

those in the greatest need.

be better placed to send the right response, the first time.

For example, stroke patients will receive an ambulance response at

“We are working extremely hard

the first allocation, to ensure they

as a Trust, in the face of increasing

I am very lucky. I could not fault the

A new set of ambulance response

can be conveyed to hospital as

year-on-year demand, to improve

whole service from start to finish.”

standards, aimed at delivering

quickly as possible to receive the

the efficiency and timeliness of

the quickest response possible

clinical intervention they require.

our response to patients. While we

“The care I received was superb and

cannot expect response times to

The East Anglian Air Ambulance

for the most critically-ill or injured

was also dispatched to Luke who

patients, will be introduced in

The availability of a transporting

improve overnight, as we continue

was taken by land ambulance

South East Coast Ambulance

resource will also be improved,

to develop our operational staff

to the Norfolk and Norwich

Service from 22 November.

reducing the length of time single

skill-mix and ratio of ambulances to

responders wait for back up.

cars, our response to all categories

University Hospital where he defibrillator (ICD) fitted in his chest.

of patient should improve.”

standards, which have been

The new categories and

introduced across the country in

standards are set out below

More information on the response standards and the clinical

Luke added that he never claimed

recent months, see current Red 1,

his £21 winnings from that night

Red 2 and Green category calls

at the races. However, he plans to

replaced with four new categories.

with immediately life-threatening

well as short animations and an

return with the family near to the

The new system is aimed at better

and time critical injuries and

easy-read guide to the changes

anniversary of his cardiac arrest.

enabling ambulance services to

illnesses. These will be responded

can be found on our website:

get the right resource to patients,

to in a mean average time of

http://www.secamb.nhs.uk/about_

Harriet said that she was “shell-

the first time, in a timeframe

seven minutes and at least 9 out

us/our_performance/response_

shocked” that Luke was sitting up

appropriate for their clinical need.

of 10 times before 15 minutes.

time_targets/ambulance

• Category 1 - is for calls to people

evidence that sits behind them as

AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

had an implantable cardioverter

The new nationally-determined

263 Do you have anything you would like to add or include in Newsline? Please contact us and let us know.

Life Connections 2018 Harrogate/Bristol Paramedic Conferences

Harrogate - March 15 Paramedic Practice Conference Programme

Bristol - June 21 Paramedic Practice Conference Programme

Thursday 15th March 2018

Thursday 21st June 2018

The Pavilions of Harrogate,

Bristol UWE, Frenchay Campus,

HG2 8NZ

Bristol, BS34 8QZ

Time

Presentation

Speaker

Position

Time

Presentation

09.00 – 09.30 Registration

09.00 – 09.30 Registration

09.30 – 10.00 Tea/Coffee/Exhibition

09.30 – 10.00 Tea/Coffee/Exhibition

Understanding & 10.00 – 10.30 Assessing Kids that Limp 10.30 – 11.00 Futile Resuscitation Just How Bad Are 11.00 – 11.30 Your Clinical Skills?

Can Ultrasound Help?

Christopher Preston

Strategic Lead NWAS

Matthew House

Doctor (PrD) NWAS

Bob Jarman

Consultant in Emergency Medicine

12.30 – 13.00 Epilepsy Awareness 13.00 - 14.00

Position

10.00 – 10.30

Paramedics and End of Life Care

Jp Stonehouse

Macmillan Cancer Care Project Manager

10.30 – 11.00

Dealing with Traumatic Events and National Disasters / Terrorist Incidents

Joanne Mildenhall

Paramedic Team Leader

11.00 – 11.30

Disaster Response Paramedic – The Nepal Earthquake Experience

Simon Greenfield

HART Paramedic

Amy Chan-Dominy

Paediatric Consultant

Adam Layland

Senior Lecturer in Leadership and Management

11.30 – 12.00 Tea/Coffee/Exhibition

11.30 – 12.00 Tea/Coffee/Exhibition 12.00 – 12.30 T.B.C

Speaker

Professor Sir Keith Porter

Professor of Clinical Traumatology

12.00 – 12.30

Advanced Airway Management

Jan Bagshaw

Nurse Consultant

12.30 – 13.00

Leadership and Management

13.00 - 14.00

Lunch/Exhibition

Lunch/Exhibition

Topics & Speakers correct at the time of press but may be subject to change.

Topics & Speakers correct at the time of press but may be subject to change.

To view all conference programmes or to register please visit www.lifeconnections.uk.com or call 01322 660434

To view all conference programmes or to register please visit www.lifeconnections.uk.com or call 01322 660434

Only 50 Places are available on each Conference at a cost of £30pp to include VAT, lunch/tea/coffee and free parking. To secure your delegate place please register online at: www.lifeconnections.uk.com or call the organisers on: 01322 660434 Further Conferences are planned later in the year for Aylesbury and Stoke-on-Trent

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NEWSLINE ‘’However, we have recently

the extended service from

seen examples of serious

Wednesday to Saturday we want

Response Team (HART) vehicles,

incidents outside of normal

to reach more people in need

to replace the existing fleet.

operating hours. We think these

of urgent care as well as assist

types of incidents could benefit

other emergency services where

The Welsh Ambulance Service

Cornwall Air Ambulance

from the specialist skills that the

needed.’’

currently has over 700 vehicles

has extended its hours of

Cornwall Air Ambulance crew

operation under a 12-month

possess and this trial will allow

‘’Due to the trial taking place in

of more than 8,000 square miles

trial involving the lifesaving

us to truly assess that demand.’’

the evenings, we can use the

across Wales.

Extended hours of service

• Five specialist Hazardous Area

in its fleet, which cover an area

cars to reach people who are in

charity’s critical care cars.

The critical care cars carry the

need of emergency care at that

Since 2011, the Welsh

time as there will be less traffic

Government has invested almost

on the roads.’’

£45m in new ambulance vehicles

Each day the helicopter crew

same advanced life-saving

works a 12-hour shift from

equipment as the helicopters,

7.30am to 7.30pm, responding

such as the LUCAS chest

to emergencies in the charity’s

compression system, an

WAS

critical care cars when the

automated device that can

weather is too bad to fly.

sustain a higher blood flow to manual chest compressions.

Welsh Government invests £8.2m in new ambulance vehicles

operate under the same hours,

The trial period will be run by the

The Welsh Ambulance Service

with an additional shift now

same paramedics who fly the

will receive 90 new operational

“The £8.2 million investment I’m

worked by two critical care

helicopter missions, providing

vehicles thanks to a £8.2m

announcing today will enable

paramedics responding to

the same level of critical care

investment from the Welsh

the Welsh Ambulance Service to

emergencies by road from 6pm

into the early hours. This

Government, Health Secretary

continue upgrading its existing

to 2am every Wednesday to

includes administering strong

Vaughan Gething.

fleet, allowing the service to deliver

Saturday.

pain relief with medication such

the brain and heart compared to Under the new trial the

for the Welsh Ambulance Service.

helicopter crew continues to

as Ketamine, as well as using Paula Martin, Chief Executive

their surgical skills.

says: “Historically, data has

Health Secretary, Vaughan Gething said: “The Welsh Ambulance Service continues to experience a growing demand for its services every year.

the best care for people in Wales.

The investment will allow the service to purchase:

“This will ensure the ambulance service is able to deploy the most

• 18 Emergency Ambulances.

shown that demand for the type

Steve Garvey, Air Operations

of critical care response the air

Officer says: ‘’We typically

ambulance crew provides fell

have more call outs towards

Transport Service vehicles

after about 7.30pm.’’

the end of the week. By trialling

(NEPTS);

• 67 Non Emergency Patient

appropriate clinician in the most appropriate vehicle, ensuring people receive the quickest response possible.”

Richard Lee, Director of Operations for the Welsh Ambulance Service said: “In Wales we’re proud to have some of the most up-to-date and best equipped ambulances to benefit our patients and staff.

“Whether we’re attending emergency calls, taking non-emergency patients to appointments or providing lifeit’s vital that we have a modern fleet capable of responding to everyone’s needs.

“We would like to thank the Welsh Government for its continued support as we aim to further improve the services and quality of care we provide for our

AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

saving care at major incidents,

patients.

265 For all your equipment needs visit: www.ambulanceservicesuppliers.com

NEWSLINE The old royal blue shirts and

LAS

navy trousers were replaced

Prime Minister praises bravery of ambulance staff

by the nationally recognised green uniform on Monday 12 September.

The change means that NIAS

Ambulance crews and call takers

staff will now look the same as

have been honoured at Downing

colleagues across the UK.

Street for their response to the terror attacks in London and the

The change comes after extensive

Grenfell Tower fire.

consultation by the Trust’s Uniform Committee which is made up of

The 25 London Ambulance

management representatives and

Service staff were joined by

Picture courtesy of Prime Minister’s Office

medics from the North West for the reception hosted by Prime Minister Theresa May.

Control room manager Cathy-Anne Burchett and Deputy Director of Operations Pauline Cranmer meet Prime Minister Theresa May

Mrs May said she was inspired

Control room manager Cathy-

Paramedic Sarah Galka, 31, a new

by the bravery of the emergency

Anne Burchett was among those

recruit from Australia, had only

service workers who dealt with

who had the opportunity to talk to

been on the job two months when

the incidents in London and

the Prime Minister.

she attended Grenfell. She said:

Manchester.

She said: “You are the ones who run towards devastation, while others run as fast as they can the other way.

And every day you go to work knowing you could be called on to face things which most of us would never want to confront.”

Police and firefighters from both London and Manchester also attended the event.

London Ambulance Service Director of Operations Paul Woodrow said: “The London Ambulance Service has been tested this year like never before but I have seen the whole organisation pull together to ensure a truly professional AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

response to some terrible events.

“It was very daunting but I just She said: “It was a great honour to represent the thousands of people who have shown admirable resilience in some extraordinarily tragic circumstances.”

The Prime Minister thanked ambulance staff on behalf of the whole country.

Paramedic Gary Edwards, 30, a first responder at London Bridge,

wanted to do everything I could to help people. I feel so proud to be part of the service and coming to 10 Downing St, I feel proud to represent the entire service.

Everyone does a tremendous job and in the aftermath, there is so much support – incidents like this bring us closer together.”

Emergency Medical Dispatcher Hamza Khan, 30, who answered 999 calls about the Westminster attack, said: “At first we thought

said: “Since that night I have really

we were taking calls about a traffic

noticed that Londoners want to

incident so when we began to

show their appreciation for the

realise this was a terror incident,

job we do. It can be a difficult job

it was so shocking. But whatever

so when people want to thank us

we are feeling we have to remain

it does make a difference. I feel

calm and positive with the callers.

proud of the whole service.”

We are there to give reassurance and confidence. I’m proud of

Advanced paramedic Keir

how London Ambulance Service

Rutherford, 35, who also attended

responds to these events. We

London Bridge said: “I feel very

have been tested but this is what we are trained for.”

trade union members representing the views of staff.

Bryan Snoddy, Assistant Director of Operations, and chairman of the Uniform Committee welcomed the change saying; “The move to green uniforms has come about following a long period of discussion with representatives of staff. Work to facilitate the transition began almost three years ago and I am delighted that from Monday 12 September, NIAS staff will be instantly recognisable by a new uniform which brings a degree of consistency with other ambulance services throughout the UK. The change in uniform could also be said to reflect the other major changes which have been taking place throughout our Service over the past number of years. These changes, facilitated by appropriate care pathways, are designed to ensure that NIAS delivers what is best for the patient.

From Monday Patients may see a different uniform but the people delivering that service are the same highly committed professionals

“This reception is recognition

privileged to have been invited

of the fantastic work all the

to Downing Street. It was a

emergency services do. We plan

team effort and what we did on

together and we train together

the bridge made a significant

and that is why we are able to

difference to the lives that were

deliver such a robust and effective

saved. I saw a lot of people acting

The Northern Ireland

have worked tirelessly in an effort

response to major incidents. This

very bravely: people risking their

Ambulance Service is changing

to ensure that this transition to

is testament to the commitment of

lives. But it was not being heroic,

its uniform for the first time

green happens as seamlessly as

our staff to caring for patients.”

it was people doing their jobs.”

since its inception in 1995.

possible.”

that would have been delivering the Service on Sunday.

NIAS

NIAS Goes Green

I would like to place on record my personal thanks to those who

266 For further recruitment vacancies visit: www.ambulanceukonline.com

NEWSLINE interest of the patient, we should encourage this to happen on a more regular basis.

NEAS

Falls training relieves pressure on 999 and A&E

“It’s all about giving the best care to our residents and also giving staff the confidence to deal with trips and falls themselves if appropriate.”

Care home staff trained to support frail fallers Training provided by the

NEAS is now looking for opportunities and funding to extend the reach of the training, looking at different user groups and catchment areas.

Specialist Skills team at North East Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust to some of the region’s care homes has resulted in a reduction in 999 calls and A&E admissions.

Tony Brockbank (Specialist Skills Trainer, NEAS) working with Cristina Igboeri, Hannah Coyne and Jenni Bugiulescu from Howdon Care Centre (Four Season Health Care)

North East Ambulance Service (NEAS) worked in partnership with the region’s Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) to deliver Falls and Initial Response Skills Training (FIRST) to improve residents’ care and to reduce pressure on health care services.

The falls response training aimed to empower nurses and staff by giving them the skills and confidence to deal with residents who have taken ill, or had a fall, to enable care to be provided more quickly and closer to the patient.

Falls-related injuries particularly affect the frail elderly, with 30% of people aged 65 and older and 50% of people aged 80 and older falling at least once a year. Falls are estimated to cost the NHS nationally more than £2.3 billion per year, which equates to around £115 million each year for the North East. The human cost of falling is an impact on the quality of life, resulting in distress, pain, injury, loss of confidence or loss lead to mortality.

has also been a demonstrable reduction in 999 call volume, which appears to show direct correlation with those care homes which have attended the training, reducing overall pressure on healthcare services.

“Overall, there is a benefit for our frail elderly, care home staff, front-line healthcare resources and secondary care organisations and we hope to continue this programme with other care homes across the region.”

Training was delivered by the Trust’s specialist skills team to 414 staff across 115 care homes across the region. The training was funded as part of the 2016/17 Urgent and Emergency Care (UEC) Vanguard.

Early indications show the training is working. Data from February and March, compared to the same time last year, has shown a 32% reduction in calls to 999 from the care homes trained, together

Elaine McDonald, head of workforce development at NEAS, said: “Giving care home staff the skills and confidence to deal with falls in the most appropriate way enables them to put the care of their patients first – which doesn’t always mean calling 999. Since

with a reduction in the number of A&E by 25%.

The training included: • guidance on moving patients • confidence to respond to patients who had suffered a fall

• guidance on assessing of patient condition • scene and risk assessment guidance to determine the most appropriate response Janice Grieve, care assistant at Princes Court, North Shields attended the training. She said: “I work with a lot of vulnerable and frail older people and falls can be a regular occurrence. This training gives you the confidence to handle cases before calling 999, and to try and assist and care for people who’ve had a fall within the care home, if it’s the safest option.”

Trish Playle, senior carer at Cobal House in Cullercoats, who also participated in the training, added: “We have regular training but this course was a great refresher. More often than not, when an elderly person in a care home has a fall, the immediate reaction is to call 999. However, this may not always be the best option for the patient. It also puts an unnecessary strain on A&E departments and ambulance services.

“Elderly patients, particularly those with dementia, can get disorientated when they leave their familiar surroundings. So if the fall can be treated at the

“Giving care home staff the skills and confidence to deal with falls in the most appropriate way enables them to put the care of their patients first – which doesn’t always mean calling 999.”

AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

of independence and they can

the training took place there

For more information or to book one of the many training courses that the Specialist Skills team offer please contact jo.wood@neas. nhs.uk

care home, and it’s in the best

267 Do you have anything you would like to add or include in Newsline? Please contact us and let us know.

NEWSLINE New state-ofthe-art helipad at Worcestershire Royal Hospital gets go-ahead Work is set to get underway on a brand new state-of-the-art £1.24m helipad at Worcestershire Royal Hospital, following the go-ahead from planners in October.

The new raised helipad, which will be situated next to Worcestershire Oncology Centre, will be closer to the Accident and Emergency department, enabling paramedics to transfer critically ill patients

An architect impression shows how the new state-of-the-art raised helipad will look

into the department more quickly, using electric trolleys, instead of

Work on the helipad, which is

new helipad and we would like to

the HELP Appeal, said: “Helipads

expected to be completed within

thank the HELP Appeal which is

save time and save lives. It’s as

12 months, has been generously

enabling this work to be carried

simple as that.

funded by the HELP Appeal whose

out. The plan has always been

Chief Executive, Robert Bertram,

to relocate the helipad closer to

“After learning that the

to ease traffic congestion, as cars

visited the hospital this week to

A&E, meaning patients arriving by

Worcestershire Royal Hospital

driving around the site will not be

hand over a cheque for £625,000 -

Air Ambulance can be transferred

could build a helipad closer to its

disrupted when the Air Ambulance

the first of two instalments.

into the department as quickly

an ambulance.

Relocating the helipad from its current location on land adjacent to the staff car park will also help

and easily as possible to receive

lands and takes off. Additional car parking will also be created – both

Michelle McKay, Chief Executive

emergency treatment once they

on land vacated by the current

of Worcestershire Acute Hospitals

have landed on site.”

helipad, and underneath the new

NHS Trust, said: “We are delighted

raised platform.

that we’ve got the go ahead for a

Robert Bertram, Chief Executive of

emergency department - reducing the time it takes to transfer a critically ill patient to the specialist care they urgently need - we wanted to make it happen for them as quickly as possible, so we agreed to cover the entire cost.

“It’s fantastic that they have been given permission to start on this essential build, which will make a huge difference to the lives of critically ill patients.”

The HELP Appeal aims to significantly increase the number of onsite hospital helipads at

AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

major trauma centres and A&E hospitals through its HELP Appeal grant scheme which offers nonrepayable grants to hospitals to help fund new helipads or upgrade existing helipads.

The HELP Appeal relies solely on Michelle McKay, Chief Executive of Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust; Robert Bertram, Chief Executive of the HELP Appeal; and James Longmore, Director of Asset Management and ICT and WAHT, overlooking the new helipad site

268 For more news visit: www.ambulanceukonline.com

charitable donations. To donate, please visit www.helpappeal.org. uk/support-us/

NEWSLINE EEAST

New ambulance hub for Hertfordshire

Ltd Luton. The 24/7 hub has

Steve Davey, Senior Locality

because of the extent of their

two training spaces, a staff

Manager for East and North

injuries and the need for rapid

rest area, locker and shower

Hertfordshire, who is based at

treatment.

facilities, wellbeing room and

the station, added: “The new

computer room.

hub is much more effective

Professor Peter Giannoudis,

than our previous space given

Professor of Trauma and

the number of vehicles we now

Orthopaedic Surgery at the

have in the local area. It forms

Leeds Teaching Hospitals

part of a wider network of sites

NHS Trust said: “The HELP

in Hertfordshire that ensures our

Appeal’s kind donation will

staff and vehicles are located

have a huge impact on patient

and managed in the most

care. It will facilitate the prompt

efficient way to deliver the best

transfer of seriously injured

care we can to patients.”

patients to Leeds Major Trauma

The 28th September saw the official opening of the new

It has a make-ready facility

Stevenage ambulance hub.

where ambulances and response cars are cleaned,

The modern hub in the Motorway Industrial Estate, Babbage Road, provides a bigger and better base to respond to patients.

Local MP Stephen McPartland officially opened the new facility, which provides a base to more than 200 East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust (EEAST) staff in East and North Hertfordshire.

Stephen McPartland MP said: “I am delighted we have so many ambulances and talented professionals based here in Stevenage at the new hub. It is incredible the transformation that has taken place inside the building and the crews seem to be really enjoying it. I am proud of the continuing massive

prepared and stocked for frontline duties.

The facility was converted as part of a £1 million investment project in Hertfordshire,

Centre allowing the medical

Watford.

Leeds Major Trauma Centre now accepting night flights thanks to HELP Appeal donation

Robert Morton, Chief Executive

Seriously ill or injured patients

of EEAST, said: “I want to

from across Yorkshire are

thank everyone for joining us

benefiting from extended air

today as we celebrate this

ambulance flying hours thanks

great milestone. This new site

to a generous donation to the

which included progressing Letchworth ambulance station into a stores facility and improving a depot base at

gives our staff better facilities to work from and a better base to respond to our patients and I would like to thank our staff for supporting this change.

The opening of this excellent

investment in our local NHS,

new ambulance hub is the

which is making Stevenage a

culmination of a lot of hard work

centre of clinical excellence.”

by many people.”

Stephen was joined by

The new facility is part of

councillors, NHS colleagues,

EEAST’s estate transformation

EEAST staff and volunteers to

plan to create a network of

celebrate the state-of-the-art

modern hubs and community

facility, which was converted

ambulance stations across the

by Neville Special Projects

region over the next five years.

Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust.

Over £132,000 was donated by the HELP Appeal, a national charity set up to help provide Major Trauma Centres like Leeds with the necessary new or upgraded base infrastructure to enable night landing and so support the specialist skills of the

staff to intervene early, save lives and reduce morbidity. All the staff at the Major Trauma Centre are delighted with this advancement.”

Linda Pollard OBE, Chair of the Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust said: “The HELP Appeal has been instrumental in facilitating the extension of our helideck capabilities, which is ensuring we can truly deliver world class major trauma services to the people of Yorkshire.”

Robert Bertram, Chief Executive of the HELP Appeal said: “People can become seriously ill or injured anytime of the day or night and with clocks changing, there is even less daylight for

pilots and clinical teams.

air ambulances to land safely

The donation has been used

state of the art lighting system

on hospital helipads. This new,

to fund important lighting and

at Leeds General Infirmary’s

fire-fighting equipment on the

helipad solves this problem,

helideck at the Leeds General

allowing helicopters to land,

Infirmary, which is enabling air

even when it’s dark, so patients

ambulances to land later into

can get the urgent treatment

the evening, therefore increasing

they need quickly at any time of

access to the Major Trauma

the day.

“We were also delighted to

Leeds is one of 22 Major Trauma

donate the funds needed for

Centres in England providing

the helipad to have a new static

around-the-clock life-saving

fire fighting system, which will

treatment for seriously injured

help to extinguish fires really

patients from West Yorkshire

efficiently, doesn’t interrupt what

(adults), and Yorkshire and

the emergency care teams need

Humber (children). Often,

to do and isn’t affected by the

patients are flown in to the

wind – a must when the helipad

service by air ambulance

is on the roof.”

AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

Centre.

269 Life Connections - The Affordable CPD Provider: www.lifeconnections.uk.com

NEWSLINE LAS

Clear Channel announces new Christmas Charity Partnership initiative, launching with London’s Air Ambulance Clear Channel UK pledges to show significant support for one partner charity every Christmas,

wouldn’t be celebrating Christmas

the campaign is to increase

without them.

awareness of the charity amongst people in London, in the hope

• The campaign hopes to drive

they will support London’s Air

awareness of our life-saving

Ambulance’s life-saving cause,

work and remind people we are

during this season of goodwill.

a charity that relies upon their donations.

Clear Channel’s Marketing Director, Martin Corke, said of the

As part of their Christmas Charity

partnership:

Partnership initiative, the media owner Clear Channel pledges to

“We are always looking for ways

give significant support to one

to support Charities and the local

chosen charity over the festive

communities that we operate

period, in the form of a campaign

in, and we are delighted to be

via their new initiative, “The

delivered on the relevant inventory,

able to launch the Christmas

Christmas Charity Partnership”,

to suit the target audience that the

Charity Partnership initiative, with

by donating a significant

charity wants to reach.

London’s Air Ambulance, who

volume of relevant inventory,

do such important, pioneering

for a single festive campaign.

Clear Channel has strong links

London’s Air Ambulance is

with the communities it operates

the first charity to benefit from

in. They are focused on helping

London’s Air Ambulance’s CEO,

the Clear Channel Christmas

improve the infrastructure of

Jonathan Jenkins, said of the

Charity Partnership initiative.

local communities, and develop

partnership:

lifesaving work for Londoners.”

partnerships with charities and • Our charity will run a campaign

sponsor local causes, and are

“Our life saving service can

across the capital, on Storm,

committed to helping dozens

only operate with the charitable

Clear Channel’s super premium

of charities every year, so this

support of people and businesses

large format digital proposition.

new initiative does not affect any

in London. We are hoping that

existing charity partnerships.

the incredible opportunity to be Clear Channel’s Christmas Charity

• The campaign, “It wouldn’t be Christmas for us without London’s

The Christmas Charity Partnership

Partner will give our campaign –

Air Ambulance”, will reach

campaign will run in London,

“It wouldn’t be Christmas for us

1000s of people across London,

on Storm, Clear Channel’s

without London’s Air Ambulance”,

highlighting that for many of their

super premium large format

a bigger audience to raise

patients, friends and families, they

digital portfolio. The aim of

awareness across London that we are a charity. We would like to encourage more people to donate, so that we can continue to deliver our advanced trauma team to all those that need it.”

SWAST

Sepsis Awareness Conference AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT) together with support from the UK SEPSIS Trust ran a sepsis awareness conference in Exeter on Monday 13 November 2017.

Attended by over a 100 health care professionals the conference was to raise further awareness and training for pre-hospital clinicians, nurses and medics.

270 For further recruitment vacancies visit: www.ambulanceukonline.com

Sepsis, also known as blood poisoning, is the reaction to an infection in which the body attacks its own organs and tissues. Sepsis is a potentially life-threatening condition, however it can be easily treated if caught early.

In the UK, at least 100,000 people each year suffer from serious sepsis (or septicaemia) with 44,000 lives claimed by it.

Consultant Paramedic, James Wenman, who organised the conference, said; “We brought together leading experts in the field to discuss the importance of what sepsis is, the education and training needed for health care staff, together with infection and prevention control as well as sepsis in paediatrics.”

There was also a preview of the acclaimed true story film ‘Starfish’, a survivors’ story and a parent’s personal account by sepsis campaigner Melissa Mead, the mother of William Mead.

Melissa Mead bravely shared her experiences of sepsis with the delegates to raise awareness and to empower parents to look out for and know the signs of this serious condition. “I was delighted and privileged to be able to share William’s story with so many health professionals. It is so important that health professionals and the public alike think of sepsis when they are poorly. It is always hard to reflect back upon William’s death, but in doing so allows me to be his mum; and I’m incredibly proud of the lives he’s saved with the campaign.”

Sepsis could occur as the result of any infection. There is no one sign for sepsis.

Sepsis is a serious condition that can initially look like flu, gastroenteritis or a chest infection.

For further details on the symptoms please see the UK Sepsis Trust website: https:// sepsistrust.org/news/what-issepsis/

IN PERSON Guernsey News

Guernsey Ambulance Service - Retirement of the Chief Officer Jon Beausire has retired from Guernsey’s St John Ambulance & Rescue Service following a 31 year career with the organisation, leading it as Chief Officer for the last 10 years.

Jon Beausire said: “I feel very privileged and proud to have led the Guernsey Service over the last 10 years. I have seen the care that we provide to the people of the islands improve significantly. Our responses to life saving calls has become quicker and more critically ill and injured patients are receiving better medical treatment enabling them to be stabilised before they are transferred to hospital. Our professional staff are now able to diagnose and treat a wider range of medical conditions, working with the rest of the health service in Guernsey to ensure that patients receive the best possible care for their needs”.

Mr Beausire became Guernsey’s first registered paramedic in 1992 and has

I also know that colleagues in the UK have watched, perhaps sometimes with envy, how Guernsey’s ambulance service has operated.

Our funding model, the public private partnership and operational structure has meant we are a valued public service”.

St John is a charity which in Guernsey provides the ambulance service as a third sector provider. Unlike the UK and the other Crown Dependencies, the ambulance service is not fully funded by government.

Approximately 70% of the total expenditure comes from the States of Guernsey, the rest has to be raised through other sources of income, such as user charges, a subscription scheme and donations.

Mr Beausire said: “there have been many challenges during my time as chief officer, these have included changing the way the Service operates, securing adequate funding and building good relationships with the island’s government. Change is never easy but it is necessary to survive and I believe that it is the people in the organisation that make those changes not the leader. My role has been to turn the ambulance service vision into reality by making decisions that were consistent with

our values. We have had to prove that what we provide is value for money and that we can not only keep pace with developments in pre-hospital care, but also maintain the high standards that are expected of us.

Jon Beausire has been responsible for various aspects of emergency planning and recalls how the events of 9/11 became the catalyst for ambulance services to review how they responded to major incidents.

Philip Selwood, a former Ambulance Trust Chief Executive and national lead for emergency planning on the Ambulance Service Associations Civil Emergencies Committee after 9/11 said “Jon was always very supportive during a very challenging period bringing to the table issues that were particular to island communities. His support in the difficult days after 9/11 was tremendous.”

The retiring Chief Officer describes himself as a ‘transformational’ leader, endeavouring to motivate others to initiate the changes that were necessary to move the Service from a transport provider to an organisation that delivers mobile medical treatment.

previously been the first clinician in Guernsey to undertake the nationally recognised courses including Ambulance Aid and the UK ambulance response driving course.

Having joined the ambulance service with previous experience of management and training and soon became an instructor, which involved a secondment to the Southern Ambulance Training School in Wiltshire.

During his career he served on various UK bodies including the National Ambulance Training Officers Group, Risk and Safety Group and the Ambulance Service Association’s Civil Emergencies Committee, serving as secretary and acting chairman for a number of years.

AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

Mr Beausire was a founder member and chair of the Offshore Islands Association, sharing best practice in the Crown Dependencies of Guernsey, Jersey and the Isle of Man, the Isle of Wight and Gibraltar. He said “Although Guernsey is not part of the UK, it has always been an important focus for the other islands to keep abreast of the developments in the UK ambulance service and the NHS. All our paramedics are nationally registered and we follow the NHS frameworks.

>>> Do you have anything you would like to add or include? Please contact us and let us know.

271

IN PERSON Mr Beausire states that one of the keys to

cliffs, fractured my leg lifting a heavy patient

Latterly as chief officer, but also throughout my

leadership was surrounding yourself with good

out of an ambulance and as dealing with many

career my work has been challenging and has,

people. He said “I would not have been able

traumatic injuries and severe illnesses. I have

on many occasions, sometimes at the most

to achieve what I have without all of the people

been privileged to have assisted delivering

inappropriate moments, imposed on my family

I have worked with over many years. Their

babies at the start of life and been with people

life. I would like to thank my family for their

commitment, loyalty and devotion to duty, in

at the end of their lives. I have experienced

support throughout, because without it I would

what is at times a difficult job, is commendable.

that amazing moment when defibrillation has

not have been able to fulfil my role. Now it’s

They are the most important resource of the

restarted someone’s heart and I have also

time to spend some time with them.

Service and I have been very privileged to have

given relatives bad news following tragic

been able to lead them as chief officer.

circumstances.

Steve Le Page, Chairman of the St John Ambulance & Rescue Service said: “Jon has

Reflecting on his achievements Mr Beausire

Mr Beausire says the professional highlight

given tremendous service over his 10 years

said “I have been responsible for many areas

of his career was becoming Guernsey’s first

as Chief Officer and has contributed so much

of service delivery and have enjoyed them all, I

registered paramedic as it signalled a major

to the organisation during his career. He is

don’t have any regrets, some things don’t always

change for the service, but his personal

well respected by all those that have worked

work out the way you have planned them, but I

highlight was being awarded the Queen’s

with him both locally and nationally. He will be

have learnt from them, it has made me stronger

Ambulance Medal at Buckingham Palace.

sorely missed and on behalf of the Board and

as a person and has made me appreciate that

As Chief Officer he has also hosted visits

the wider St John I would like to wish him the

what we do is very special and affects people

to St John of Royal visitors and Lieutenant

very best for his well-deserved retirement”.

often at a difficult time in their lives.

Governors and was on board Guernsey’s marine ambulance for the Queens Diamond

I am particularly proud of developing a criteria

Jubilee Pageant on the river Thames. Taking

based response to all emergency calls,

part in the jubilee pageant was more than just

which ensures that the patient gets the right

a celebration. The “Flying Christine” was also

medical treatment, at the right time and in

providing an operational resource on the river

the right place. This ensures that paramedics

for the London Ambulance Service, with the

are sent to patients who require their skills,

LAS Director of Operations on board.

first responders are activated at the same time as an ambulance for life-saving 999 calls

Looking to the future the retiring Chief Officer

and ambulance vehicles are positioned and

said: “the future is exciting, the Service is

diverted from locations around the island to

moving into a new era where more medical

improve response times.

treatment will need to be provided in patient’s homes to avoid unnecessary hospital

The introduction of greater collaboration with

admissions. There is no doubt that the

the other emergency services has assisted

emergency ambulance service has a great

greatly in serious incidents and allowed

part to play in this.

for more flexible responses to calls which

NWAS News

NWAS Gold Award Winners North West Ambulance Service (NWAS) has been presented with an Armed Forces Covenant Gold Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) award from HRH Prince Harry.

This is the Ministry of Defence’s prestigious badge of honour for organisations who have demonstrated outstanding support for the Armed Forces community.

NWAS was recognised with the ERS Gold distinction alongside 33 other UK employers for going above and beyond in their pledges under the Armed Forces Covenant and the trust had previously received the silver award

would have traditionally seen a response

What will be key to this is the development of

from a double crewed large ambulance. The

advanced paramedics and technicians who

delivery of pre-hospital medical treatment is

will have the ability to provide a higher level of

important, but above all what I have strived to

diagnosis and patient assessment, manage

provide through a dedicated and professional

complex multiple medical conditions in the

workforce is ‘care’. In whatever we do, whether

community and administer of a wide range of

a second career in diverse industries following

that is in the frontline as a paramedic, or in

medicines, including analgesics, antibiotics

military service, and the support measures for

the administration department processing an

and sedatives.”

the wider military community and workplace

invoice ‘care’ is the key value I have aspired to

in 2014.

HRH Prince Harry thanked this year’s winners and heard about the successful initiatives that provide veterans with a fair chance of starting

flexibility for Reservists.

AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

and I believe that my staff and volunteers have

Jon Beausire said: “I am proud to be leaving

done that well and consistently.”

the organisation in good hands with a strong

The award presentation took place on Monday

and supportive Board of Directors, a competent

9 October at the Imperial War Museum in

Jon has reflected on his memories over his

management team and a workforce which

London and was hosted by Defence Secretary

31 years and said: “I have been very fortunate

delivers a high standard of care and treatment

Sir Michael Fallon, who said: “This year’s Gold

to have had such a long and varied career

every day in our island. The ultimate accolade

award winners should be extremely proud of

and am one of the few paramedics who have

for me is to have organised the emergency

the work they are doing to live up to the Armed

operated on land, sea and in the air. I have

ambulance service in such a way that I will not

Forces Covenant pledge and to promote the

seen many things that some people will never

be missed, with faster response times to life

pledge to others.

see. I have been seasick treating a heart

saving calls and the value of care etched into

attack on a yacht at sea, wounded all over

the ethos of each and every one, who like me

“I’m delighted to recognise employers who

by Blackthorn bushes rescuing youths on the

has the privilege of being in this fulfilling career.

make it crystal clear that regardless of size,

272 For more news visit: www.ambulanceukonline.com

IN PERSON Robin currently spearheads the Trust’s frequent caller work, aimed at reducing the number of people who regularly dial 999 inappropriately, and providing them with more suitable services for their needs.

During his career he has progressed through a number of roles, including Patient Care Services operative, Emergency Medical Technician, Paramedic and Clinical Team Leader, to his current position of Clinical Support Officer.

In recent years he accepted the challenge of setting up the new Clinical Desk function for the Trust, which supports staff in its three Clinical Contact Centres.

HRH Prince Harry, Michael Forrest - Director of Organisational Development, Katy Evans Health and Wellbeing Advisor, Matt House - Consultant Paramedic, Sir Michael Fallon.

Robin has now taken on the role of the Frequent Caller Lead for the Trust, heading

location, or sector, employing people with

Robin Petterson was presented with the

military skills is good for business. I hope others

medal by Prince Charles during a ceremony

follow their example, thereby delivering a better

held at Buckingham Palace on Thursday 16

deal for veterans and armed forces families.”

November 2017.

Derek Cartwright, Chief Executive of North

It comes after he was recognised in Her

West Ambulance Service added:“North West

Majesty’s Birthday Honours List in June for

Ambulance Service is extremely proud to

distinguished and meritorious service.

up a team who share data with local health boards on people who use the ambulance service more than five times in a month.

A multi-agency group then meets to identify and provide support to them, which could involve providing increased care packages, or community support via third sector or voluntary agencies.

support all employees who are part of the Armed Forces Community as we recognise the wealth of transferrable skills they bring from their military training.

Robin, from Cardiff, has dedicated 30 years of his life to the ambulance service after joining as part of the original cadet scheme in Wales with South Glamorgan Ambulance Service in

“They have a great team ethos, professionalism, exceptional leadership, communication and resilience skills. Our staff are often faced with distressing and challenging situations which is when these skills prove most invaluable; not only in providing outstanding care for our patients but also when supporting fellow colleagues. We are honoured to have received this recognition as we continue to support our current and future armed forces reservists.”

1986.

He said he felt humbled to hear about the achievements of other honours recipients at his investiture.

Robin said: “The day was fantastic and it was a wonderful experience. When you’re in the holding room with all the people who have been honoured, and you talk to them about their achievements and they ask about yours, it just brings it all home what an honour it is to

WAS News

have been recognised.

“Prince Charles was very personable and made you feel like he was on your level. I was one of the last people to go up and I was sat in amongst chief constables and various people from the army.

The Welsh Ambulance Service’s Frequent

“For that one hour when you’re in the room,

Caller Lead says he is ‘very humbled’ after

even among celebrities, you’re all the same

being awarded the Queen’s Ambulance

and everyone’s proud of each other’s

Service Medal.

achievements.”

Welsh Ambulance Service Clinical Support Officer Robin Petterson with his Queen’s Ambulance Service Medal outside Buckingham Palace.

AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

Welsh Ambulance Service’s Frequent Caller Lead ‘Humbled’ by Queen’s Ambulance Service Medal award

273 For all your equipment needs visit: www.ambulanceservicesuppliers.com

IN PERSON EMAS News

ceremony which took place at InterContinental

Director of Operations appointed

Hotel, London on 16 October.

EEAST News

Trust bids farewell to nonexecutive director

Director of Operations for North West Ambulance Following the appointment of Richard

Service, Ged Blezard, said: “It’s fantastic that all

Sheila Childerhouse, a non-executive

Henderson as Chief Executive we are

of these amazing ladies have been recognised

director at the East of England Ambulance

pleased to announce we have appointed

for going above their call of duty to put others

Service NHS Trust (EEAST), will be leaving

Ben Holdaway as Director of Operations.

first and doing all that they could to make sure

the Trust at the end of December.

that those involved in the incident were given the In June 2016, Ben joined EMAS through a

help and care that they needed.

seconded opportunity as Associate Director

She moves on to take up a new role as Chair of the West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust.

of Operational Improvement from Yorkshire

“We are extremely proud of all our staff who work

Ambulance Service. In December he was

their socks off and do remarkable things every

EEAST Chair Sarah Boulton said: “Sheila joined

appointed as Deputy Director of Operations

single day to help people in the community.”

the Trust at a very difficult time for the service

and led us through our transition into the

and has been instrumental in our rebuilding

national Ambulance Response Programme.

The Women of the Year lunch celebrates ‘ordinary

process and the significant strides forward we

Ben is well known across the service having

women doing extraordinary things’ as well as

have made. Only two weeks ago we heard how

worked at EMAS before as a Senior Manager

leading women in all walks of life and professions.

these improvements have been recognised

in our Emergency Operations Centre.

by the national regulator, as we received an Jane Luca, who lives in the North West and is

improved rating from NHS Improvement. Sheila

David Whiting, Chief Operating Officer said:

Chair of Women of the Year, said: “These women

has continuously shined a spotlight on clinical

“This is an excellent opportunity for Ben. He is a

represent the remarkable and brave response by

quality and compassionate care, with patients

highly experienced and respected leader and a

the Greater Manchester emergency and medical

and staff at the forefront of all discussions. I

great asset to EMAS. He will continue to use his

services to the Manchester arena bombing in May,

want to thank Sheila for her contribution and

expertise and knowledge to drive forward our

and became beacons of their community as they

hard work, she will be sorely missed. We send

plans for improving operational services.”

went above and beyond to care for and reassure

Sheila to the West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust

victims, family members and the public. This award

with our very best wishes; I know that she will

is thoroughly deserved and we salute them all.”

do an outstanding job with them.”

and a further announcement will be made

Women of the Year president, Sandi Toksvig

Sheila said: “It had been an absolute privilege

advising colleagues of the implementation date.

hosted a group of 400 specially invited

to serve as a Board member of EEAST. There is

women, all honoured as a ‘2017 Woman of

something very special about the service that

Achievement;’ selected for their resilience,

I will very much miss. The Trust has been on a

resourcefulness, and selfless actions.

demanding journey in the last four years and

Ben will be taking up his role in the new year, subject to the employment checks for directors,

NWAST News

Manchester Emergency and Medical Services Awarded the Barclays Women of the Year Award Women of North West Ambulance Service have been recognised as part of a team of inspirational women in the emergency services by receiving a Women of the Year award for their outstanding efforts to help others after the attack in Manchester.

I am very pleased to leave it in a much more positive place than when I joined in 2013.

We now have a committed and able leadership team and a strong and experienced Board.

The whole NHS is facing tough challenges and I believe EEAST is in a good place to face those.

I wish colleagues well in the journey to come.”

Sheila joined EEAST in the summer of 2013 as a non-executive director for an initial six-month period and then a permanent appointment in December 2013.

AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

Paramedic for North West Ambulance Service, Lea Vaughan joined a group of eight inspirational women from Greater Manchester to collect the award. They all played a very important role in helping patients on the evening of the terrible events in May with Lea volunteering to go inside the blast zone to help those injured.

The Barclays Women of the Year Award was presented by Camilla, The Duchess of Cornwall at the annual luncheon and awards

274 For further recruitment vacancies visit: www.ambulanceukonline.com

IN PERSON News

Winners! The nation’s finest clinicians, aviators and fundraisers are celebrated at the Air Ambulance Awards of Excellence Almost 300 guests celebrated the best and brightest from the air ambulance community at the national Air Ambulance Awards of Excellence 2017.

Awards hosts, BBC News reporter and presenter Sophie Long and Helicopter Heroes presenter Rav Wilding handed out 12 Awards to outstanding individuals and teams, whose stories were inspirational, astounding and humbling. The awards, which are independently judged, went to pilots, paramedics, doctors, fundraisers and volunteers who collected their trophies at a ceremony held at The Chelsea Harbour Hotel.

An enthusiastic audience listened to the remarkable stories of each shortlisted nominee, all of whom demonstrated excellence and commitment well above and beyond the call of duty.

Chair of the Judging Panel, Jim Fitzpatrick MP, said: “Every year at these Awards, we hear about ordinary people doing simply extraordinary things and this year was no exception. Whether it’s pensioners raising hundreds of thousands of pounds, clinicians performing major surgery out in the field or pilots showing nerves of steel to land in difficult conditions, it’s clear that those working in the air ambulance sector are among the most courageous, talented and determined people around. I’d like to offer my most sincere congratulations to all the nominees but especially the winners.”

Below is a list of all the winners: Air Ambulance Campaign Award WINNER: Midlands Air Ambulance Sponsor: Lottery Fundraising Services

Charity Staff Member of the Year WINNER: Frank Chege, London’s Air Ambulance Sponsor: Bayards Charity Volunteer of the Year WINNER: Jill & Don McLaren, Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance Sponsor: Tower Lotteries Air Ambulance Doctor of the Year WINNER: Dr Syed Masud, Thames Valley Air Ambulance Sponsor: Leonardo Helicopters Innovation of the Year Award WINNER: Essex & Herts Air Ambulance Sponsor: Sloane Helicopters Lifetime Achievement Award WINNER: Christine Margetts Sponsor: Specialist Aviation Services Air Ambulance Paramedic of the Year WINNER: Adam Carr, Essex & Herts Air Ambulance Sponsor: BMW Government and Authorities Division Air Ambulance Pilot of the Year WINNER: Neil Airey, North West Air Ambulance Sponsor: Safran UK Special Incident Award WINNER: Wales Air Ambulance Sponsor: Airbus Helicopters Air Operations Support Staff Member of the Year WINNER: John Power, London’s Air Ambulance Sponsor: Allianz Outstanding Young Person Award WINNER: Josh Bright, Magpas Sponsor: Babcock MCS Onshore AAA Chairman’s Award WINNER: Caroline Creer

News

Board of Kent Surrey & Sussex Air Ambulance Trust welcomes three new members Kent, Surrey & Sussex Air Ambulance Trust has appointed three new trustees to its Board as the charity enters an ambitious new phase of development.

Caitlin Blewett, Michael Docherty and Barney Burgess were welcomed to the Board by Helen Bowcock, Chair of Trustees and Adrian Bell, Chief Executive of Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance Trust.

Helen Bowcock, Chair of Trustees, said: “I am delighted that Caitlin, Michael and Barney have agreed to join our Board. In seeking to diversify our skill set we have succeeded in finding three people who bring considerable breadth and depth of experience in areas that are of great strategic importance to us.”

Caitlin Blewett is the Head of Digital at Deloitte LLP, and brings a wealth of experience in marketing, advertising, digital and technology.

In her current role she leads on the firm’s digital strategy to drive increased impact and effectiveness of the firm’s marketing. Caitlin has also worked on the agency side, developing brands, cultivating innovation and creating award-winning marketing programmes for leading corporations around the world.

Michael Docherty is Director of Digital and Supporter Experience at Cancer Research UK. Among many significant achievements he has been responsible for leading digital transformation at the UK’s largest charity and building its fundraising and event platform. He has 20 years’ experience gained in the internet, media, telecommunications and charity sectors including driving the use of media sponsorships for Telstra.

Adrian Bell, Chief Executive, said:

All the winners with Sophie Long and Rav Wilding

“I greatly look forward to working with Caitlin, Michael and Barney at a time when, as a charity, we are introducing new services and are embarking upon a growth strategy.”

AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

Barney Burgess served consumer businesses for McKinsey & Co before joining Tesco plc where he ran their grocery home shopping business and was a commercial director. His achievements included introducing the grocery ‘Click and Collect’ service to the UK. He is now a partner in Hattington Investment Partners, a private equity partnership. Significantly, in 2015, he was airlifted by KSSAA and brings enormous passion and commitment to the charity which saved his life.

275 Do you have anything you would like to add or include? Please contact us and let us know.

IN PERSON NEAS News

Ambulance frontline employees awarded with the Queen’s Medal to recognise distinguished service 15 frontline emergency care employees awarded for their dedication to the ambulance service Fifteen frontline emergency care employees at North East Ambulance Service have received The Queen’s Medal for their dedication to their roles at an NHS Ambulance Service.

Recipients of the Queen’s Medal have been in front line emergency care services, for more than 20 years or seven years in frontline emergency care and 13 years in emergency care management and have demonstrated good conduct throughout their career.

Chief Executive, Yvonne Ormston said,

age of 17, but joined the ambulance service

“I am extremely proud of all of the long serving

26 years ago. He spent two years working at

employees at the Trust and have huge respect

Patient Transport Service and later qualified

for all who have received this award. On behalf

as an advanced technician in 1995, two years

of myself and all at the Trust, we thank them for

later began training as a paramedic.

doing the job they do.

Mark currently works at Redcar station but has “Our employees aim to make a difference day

spent time working from stations across Tees,

in and day out and The Queen’s Medal awards

Durham, Darlington and Bishop Auckland.

show they do just that.

He said, “I have worked with many crews who “Frontline employees deal with very difficult

have always been so warm and welcoming

situations on a daily basis and show the

to a stranger with a funny accent. I’ve

upmost compassion for all patients that

made lots of memories over the years, both

they treat. It has been a great opportunity to

personally and professionally, both good and

acknowledge the quality of care they provide

sad memories. Professionally, gaining my

to their patients.

paramedic degree through the conversion course is my proudest moment.”

“They all go above and beyond the call of duty in their roles, striving for excellence

Sean Potts, from Rowlands Gill, began

and innovation and enabling us to deliver

his ambulance career back in 1992 where

our mission to provide safe, effective and

he started as part time Patient Transport

responsive care for all.”

Service. Sean later became an ambulance liaison, advance technician, paramedic, team leader then

Her Majesty’s representative

advanced practitioner.

the Lord-Lieutenant of Tyne & Wear Mrs Susan Margaret

Sean now works on the

Winfield OBE DL presented

Critical Care vehicle,

The Queen’s Medal to the

responding to incidents such

15 frontline emergency care

as cardiac arrests. He said,

employees.

“My most proud moments of working at NEAS is when we

Speaking at the ceremony,

gain a Return of spontaneous

Mrs Winfield said, “I am

circulation (ROSC), I

extremely proud of all who

couldn’t be prouder to save

have received The Queen’s

someone’s life.”

Medal today, to give them the recognition they deserve

Paul Tarbit, from Blyth, started

for their invaluable service

working in the ambulance

to the community.

“The North East Ambulance Service is fortunate to have so many skilled people whose work is greatly benefitting society.”

The Queen’s Medal, which was issued AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

under Royal Warrant in July 1995, has been awarded to 15 employees with a combined service of more than 300 years; Alan Bowater, Robert Bunting, Philip Buxton, Peter Cairns, Ian Daley, Paul Dunning, Darren Fairclough, Jeffery Hutchinson, Mark Merrington, Simon Mobberley, Sean Potts, Gary Shaw, Steven Straker, Paul Tarbit and Gary Wild at an awards ceremony at Crowne Plaza Hotel in Newcastle upon Tyne.

Paul Dunning, from Ashington, received The Queen’s Medal for more than 20 years service.

service in December 1994 progressing to Patient Transport Service at both Wallsend and Wideopen. In 2003, he

He began his career in the ambulance service

qualified as a Paramedic and then became a

in 1993 before moving on to Accident and

team leader.

Emergency in 1997 as a Paramedic. He later progressed to the role of clinical care manager

Paul was seconded to an assistant operations

working out of Washington, Pallion and

manager post before returning to operational

Backworth.

duties in 2014, working on rapid response.

He is currently working as a clinical education

Paul said, “I’ve had many memorable

development officer in the training department.

moments and I love my job but I’m just a regular person who comes in every day and try

Paul said, “I’ve had many memorable

my best.”

moments from working on the road, but I’m most proud to be able to pass on my

Paramedic and father of two, Mark Merrington,

knowledge and experience to students within

from Redcar, has worked in the NHS since the

the training department.”

276 For more news visit: www.ambulanceukonline.com

IN PERSON News

New Chair for Isle of Wight NHS Trust announced

Mr Thomas takes over from Eve Richardson OBE (pictured below with Vaughan) who announced her intention to stand down to

NWAS News

Ambulance Manager Retires after over 40 Years

become the chair of the Island’s independent NHS Improvement (NHSI) has confirmed

stakeholder reference group earlier this year.

Much loved sector manager for South

the appointment of Vaughan Thomas

Lancashire and Fylde, Graham Curry

(pictured right) as the new Chair of Isle of

retires from the trust after a career

Wight NHS Trust. The appointment is with

spanning 42 years.

immediate effect and is for two years. Isle of Wight NHS Trust is the Island’s principal

Graham has worked his way up since 1974

provider of secondary healthcare services

when he started on frontline duties for

including ambulance, community, hospital

Cleveland and later Lancashire Ambulance

and mental health and learning disability

Service.

services. The Trust serves a population of 140,000 with 2.5m visitors per annum on an

Having spent the majority of his career working

offshore Island which is only accessible by

in and around the Blackpool area, Graham has

sea and air. Mr Thomas chaired the Trust

been involved in a number of large incidents

Board meeting on Wednesday 4th October.

Vaughan has been a frequent visitor to the Island since 1986 and more recently has bought a home here. Vaughan is a Chartered Accountant with experience as a professional advisor, chief executive, and entrepreneur. He has various roles as director, non-executive director and trustee. Vaughan brings a range of valuable skills and experience to the role of Chairman at Isle of Wight NHS Trust. He was previously a Partner at PriceWaterhouseCoopers and European Chief Executive at CB Richard Ellis. Vaughan has been a Non-Executive Director with the Trust since September 2016.

The appointment has been made in accordance with the Commissioner for Public Appointments’ Code of Practice including open advertising of the position. Mr Thomas’ appointment runs for two years from 2nd October 2017 to 1st October 2019.

All non-executive appointments are made on merit and political activity plays no part in the selection process. However, in accordance with the original Nolan recommendations, there is a requirement for appointees political activity (if any declared) to be made public.

Mr Thomas has declared no political activity.

The requirements for Non-Executive Directors

Speaking about his appointment Mr Thomas said: “It is a real privilege to serve the Isle of Wight NHS Trust. I look forward to working with Board colleagues and Trust staff in this

and remuneration can be found on the NHS Improvement website at https://improvement. nhs.uk/resources/non-executiveappointments/.

and was commended in 1977 for his role in saving a baby from a burning building in Blackpool.

Going forward, Graham moved into control room dispatch and went on to be involved in two prestigious projects involving developing telephone and radio systems which led him into further projects across the globe.

Graham was elected President of British Association of Public Communication Officers (BAPCO) and was heavily involved in the introduction of the first NHS Direct service in Preston.

Speaking about his retirement, Graham said: “I have been extremely fortunate to work with such a great organisation with some hard working and dedicated people who I will most certainly miss.”

new role. Together we face an exciting and In more recent years, Graham has ended

Quality Commission’s inadequate rating which

his career managing the operational staff in

resulted in the Trust being placed in special

South Lancashire and the Fylde coast with

measures. Our aim is to get to a good rating

responsibility for over 370 clinical staff and

as soon as we can.”

managers.

Welcoming Vaughan’s appointment Maggie

Peter Mulcahy, Head of Service for Cumbria

Oldham, Interim Chief Executive Officer at

and Lancashire, said: “Graham has been an

Isle of Wight NHS Trust, said: “Vaughan has

integral part of the senior team in Lancashire

extensive leadership experience which will help

for many years. His absolute passion of caring

the Trust meet the many challenges it faces.

for the patients we serve is well known. His

As chair of the Trust’s Integrated Improvement

vast experience will be missed by all of his

Framework (IIF) board Vaughan is already very

colleagues. On behalf of the team at NWAS

involved in our improvement programme and

we wish him a very happy retirement.”

familiar with the work we need to do to ensure that services are sustainable for the future and

Graham will now focus on his role as Justice of

deliver the best possible service for Islanders

the Peace for Lancashire as well as his hobby

within the resources we have available.”

of restoring classic cars.

AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

demanding challenge responding to the Care

277 Life Connections - The Affordable CPD Provider: www.lifeconnections.uk.com

IN PERSON WAS News

Welsh Ambulance Service honours colleagues at Staff Awards 2017

The Gail Williams Award, which is sponsored

Non-Emergency Patient Transport Service

by Michael Williams and his daughters Megan

Control Supervisor Stephen Miftari took

and Sioned in memory of his wife and their

home the Personal Excellence award,

mother, Gail Williams, pays tribute to those

sponsored by Blake Morgan Solicitors, for the

who have provided clinical excellence in the

encouragement and support he provides to

pre-hospital setting.

his team to be the best they can, to improve overall patient care.

This year it was presented to Tenby and Fishguard EMS teams Rhys Thomas, Stephen

Meanwhile, the Inspiring Others Award

Bowles, Chris Price, Rob Rees and Lee Jones.

sponsored by Renault Retail Group went jointly to North Clinical Contact Centre Utilisation Manager

This team demonstrated an incredibly high

Gill Pleming and Newport Clinical Team Leader

standard of clinical excellence at a serious

Sharon Thorpe, who have both been described

incident involving a tank at the Castlemartin

as an ‘inspiration’ by the staff they lead.

Range in Pembrokeshire earlier this year.

The recipient of the Taking Ownership

The Welsh Ambulance Service honoured its

Head of Clinical Operations, Greg Lloyd,

award, sponsored by Andrew Scott Ltd, was

said: “This was a very challenging incident

Paramedic Julian Rudge for the impeccable

both professionally and emotionally for those

bravery he displayed at a serious incident,

involved, and their Locality Manager has

where he was met by a man who had attacked

expressed his pride to be associated with each

someone. During the incident he maintained

of them for the support they provided during

a calm manner and his actions led to their

and indeed after the incident.”

peaceful arrest.

staff and volunteers at an awards ceremony The Valuing Difference Award, sponsored by

in Llandudno on Thursday 19 October 2017.

the GMB Union, was awarded to the Learning The Lord Lieutenant for Clwyd, Mr Henry

Disability Celebration and Learning Day Team

Fetherstonehaugh OBE, presented awards for

for a successful event they held in Caerphilly to

Her Majesty the Queen’s Long Service and Good

highlight the work the Trust had achieved to date

Conduct Medal for staff with more than 20 years

with and for people with learning disabilities.

in the Emergency Medical Service (EMS).

Call Taking Supervisor James Evans won the Retirees were also recognised at the service

Being Better Award for his work to maximise

at Venue Cymru, as well as non-EMS staff who

the potential of call takers, across three

had dedicated 20, 30 or 40 years.

Clinical Contact Centres in Wales, to deliver exceptional care to patients.

As well as those traditional awards, the Trust celebrated the winners of its category awards

Taking home the Great Listener Award,

which are aligned to its behaviours.

sponsored by Lawray Architects, was Training Instructor David Sullivan, who is always willing to listen and explain things when someone he

Time was also taken to honour colleagues who The Trust also presented its Dr Jennifer Bucknell

have died in service.

is teaching requires help.

Community First Responder (CFR) Award, Speaking at the ceremony, Chief Executive

which recognises those who have gone the

The Chief Executive’s award recognises those

Tracy Myhill said: “I never cease to be amazed

extra mile to deliver first aid to their community.

who consider the needs of others, and was given to Gwynedd-based Paramedic Berwyn

and inspired by the professionalism and AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

excellent service our staff and volunteers

The award, which was inspired by sudden

Jones for the care he provided to patient Rhian

provide across all aspects of our work and

death of the popular Cardiff University student

Doyle from Llanfairfechan.

throughout the whole organisation.

and first responder, went to Wrexham CFR coordinator Terence Brownhill, who has expanded

Rhian joined Berwyn on stage and has

“These Staff Awards ceremonies recognise

the number of CFRs in the county from five to

credited him with saving her life after

your contributions - to celebrate your

more than 30 members in 11 teams.

recognising she was suffering from the potentially life-threatening condition sepsis.

dedication and professionalism in providing care to the people of Wales, and a chance to

In the Trust’s category awards, the Working

say quite simply ‘thank you’.

Together Awards sponsored by Anoto went to

The penultimate award was the Chair’s Award,

the Falls Response Service, which has come

sponsored by Swansea University, which

Last night’s ceremony also saw the

to the aid of hundreds of patients who have

recognises people working across teams and

presentation of two special awards.

fallen in the Aneurin Bevan Health Board area.

boundaries for the benefit of others.

278 For further recruitment vacancies visit: www.ambulanceukonline.com

IN PERSON me, he is the one person I owe my life to, he is

Specialist Mobility and leads on Arriva Patient

the one person I will always have in my heart,

Transport Solutions. Ed previously worked

and he is the one person who deserves this

for London Ambulance Service NHS Trust,

award.”

latterly as Assistant Director of Operations and Head of the Trusts fleet and logistics

In closing the event, Chair Mick Giannasi

department.

said: “Tonight has been a wonderful and inspirational evening, and we are delighted to have had the opportunity to share and celebrate the hard work and achievements of our staff and volunteers.”

The Trust would like to thank main award sponsors The Ortus Group, co-sponsors

It was handed to Falls Response Service Project Lead James Gough for his pioneering work alongside colleagues in the Trust and

Swansea University’s College of Human and

Henry Bilinski, Henry is the Chief Executive

Health Sciences and category sponsors Blake

Office for Healthcare and Transport Services

Morgan Solicitors, Anoto, Andrew Scott Ltd,

(HATS) and has worked in the transport and

Renault Retail Group, the GMB Union, Lawray

logistics sector for over 30 years, joining the

Architects and Ridler Webster, as well as staff

HATS group in 2008.

at Venue Cymru for hosting the event.

Aneurin Bevan Health Board to improve care News

for patients who have fallen.

The final award of the night was the Patient’s Choice Award, sponsored by the Ortus Group, which recognises people who go the extra mile for their patients.

IAA announces new Directors The IAA is pleased to announce the appointment of new Directors.

The winner for the second time during the evening was Paramedic Berwyn Jones, who was nominated by Rhian Doyle for his calm manner and crucial judgement call when she had sepsis.

In her nomination, Rhian said: “It is with thanks

Jamie Smith, the Finance and Operations Director for North West Private Ambulance

Alan Carter, Director of Service Development

Liaison Services and has joined the Board as

at G4S Healthcare Service, re-joins the Board.

an Associate Director, part of the Associations

Alan has vast experience of contracting

succession planning. He was part of the small

ambulance services, having previously been

team which founded the company in 2012,

Head of Commissioning Patient Transport

having worked in an emergency care role

Services at Mid Surrey Primary Care Trust.

within the NHS for 7 years.

Andy King, owner and Operations Director

“The appointment of these new Directors

for Hearts First Ambulance, having previously

will provide new energy and expertise as the

worked for several years in London Ambulance

Association enters a new phase of its work on

Service NHS Trust. Andy brings experience of

behalf of Member companies.” commented

specialist repatriation of patients in the UK and

Alan, Executive Chairman. “We’re starting

across Europe.

two major pieces of work soon: developing

to Berwyn that I survived, and that my three children have a mother.

“He is the one person that deserves recognition and deserves a thank you from

companies in preparing for and managing CQC inspections and lobbying for a national PTS framework, which will be Co-Chaired by an IAA Director.”

Alan Howson Executive Chairman (Independent Ed Potter, Managing Director of Arriva

AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

best practice guidance for Member

Ambulance Association)

279 Do you have anything you would like to add or include? Please contact us and let us know.

COMPANY NEWS the amount of equipment e.g.

Give Your Ambulance An Effective Clean in Just 30 Minutes

monitoring equipment, trolleys

Mangar Health have recently launched their new range of cleaning products developed by TecCare in the UK. The TecCare range includes new generation cleaning products, such as, TECcare PROTECT, Skin and Hand Moisturising Sanitiser and TECcare CONTROL, Air and Surface High-Level Broad-Spectrum Cleaner/ Disinfectant.

limited spare time to do a routine

The environment within an

these challenges.

and mattresses etc in there, which needs cleaning as well.

There’s also the issue of having clean before the ambulance is called out again.

Another thing to be aware of is the possibility that delicate medical devices can often easily be damaged by corrosive chemicals such as alcohol or chlorine based disinfectants.

We’d like to introduce you to our new range of cleaning products which will help you to overcome

ambulance represents a highrisk area for the transfer of

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disinfection of an ambulance. Due

essential to life. The result is a

to factors including the confined

rapid microbial kill of bacteria,

space within the ambulance and

viruses, fungi and spores.

TECcare® PROTECT TECcare® PROTECT is a disinfectant/antiseptic technology.

It’s intended for use as a skin antiseptic and offers safe, effective, user-friendly hand and skin cleansing, disinfection and sanitation. The TECcare® PROTECT technology is based on the quaternary ammonium compound benzalkonium chloride (BAC) with an adjuvant effect that enhances its antimicrobial efficacy.

TECcare has undergone comprehensive testing at independent, accredited laboratories which has demonstrated that all the products offer a broad-spectrum high-level disinfection. The TecCare products are also already used by airlines and by the catering industry.

If you’d like more information regarding the TecCare products, please visit mangarhealth.com or call 0800 2800 485.

Department of Health selects FREQUENTIS control room software

its evolution to an Emergency Service Network (ESN) The Department of Health has selected the Frequentis 3020 LifeX integration platform as a replacement for the current Integrated Command and Control System (ICCS). The Control Room Software (CRS) project required a new approach to the provision of radio dispatch for the UK Ambulance Trust using a cloud-based model. The system will enable the Trust to be ready to transition to the United Kingdom’s Emergency Services Network (ESN).

The 3020 LifeX, designed as multi-media collaboration platform, will be hosted at Crown Hosting Data Centres to provide a highly resilient national solution for all of the English Ambulance Trust control room operators and with an option for Scotland and Wales too. With a capacity for almost 700 concurrent users, the system will be the largest ICCS in the UK. The system will not only allow the control centre staff to communicate with the ambulances on the current Airwave network, but also the new ESN once it is operational. It will

Cloud-based infrastructure from Frequentis will assist the UK Ambulance Trust with

AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

280 For more news visit: www.ambulanceukonline.com

also provide a map-based view of the location of all ambulances, to compliment current systems and

COMPANY NEWS provide another layer of resilience for the most critical of services.

This new approach to the provision of critical services for an Emergency Services’ control centre allows for flexibility and innovation to meet any future requirements and the enhancement of operational processes and procedures. Even though the system is national and can be enhanced on this basis, Frequentis understands the need for individual Trusts’ to operate in their own way and will therefore ensure local requirements are also catered for.

to deliver the LifeX software.

Delivering the largest ICCS in UK will be a challenge, however we are confident that Frequentis are the right provider to enable us to deliver a solution that will greatly assist the Ambulance Trusts’ dispatch capabilities.

Realising the benefits of the new Emergency Services Network (ESN) is vital and the flexibility inherent with LifeX will enable Trusts to transition to ESN whilst maintaining inter-operable communications with other Trusts, Police and Fire” – Duncan Bray, Head of Programmes – Ambulance Radio Programme.

“We are extremely pleased to be working with Frequentis

With the introduction of ESN over the coming years,

ambulance dispatching and the communications with staff will change and the potential use of multimedia will evolve. Having a “single” system will enable the evolvement to be managed and implemented in a more cost effective and efficient way.

Frequentis’ expertise in providing safety-critical communication and information solutions is well-known in the industry. In February 2016, Frequentis won the International Critical Communications Awards (ICCA) in the category “Best use of TETRA for Public Safety” for its best practice voice communication system implemented for the Bavarian Police during the 2015 G7 Summit

in June. Furthermore, at the 2016 Critical Communications World, Frequentis won the “Future Tech Award” for its Unified Radio Gateway (URG) solution.

“The Frequentis 3020 LifeX software platform was designed for the approach required by the UK Ambulance Trusts. The “private cloud” infrastructure, intuitive web-based frontend and ability to integrate numerous third party systems means a single national solution can meet the specific needs of the individual Trusts. This brings the benefits of scale without compromising the individual’s needs.” Says Robert Nitsch, Public Safety Director at Frequentis.

AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

281 For all your equipment needs visit: www.ambulanceservicesuppliers.com

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THE CLASSIFIED SITE For For further further information make information or or to to make aa reservation reservation please please contact contact

Terry Terry or or Brenda Rachel Tel: Tel: 01322 01322 660434 660434 Fax: Fax: 01322 666539 email:

info@mediapublishing info@mediapublishing company.com or by post to: Media Media House, 48 High Street 48 Swanley Swanley KentBR8 BR88BQ BQ Kent

Life Connections 2014 Exmed Study Day

Theme: Difficult Airway Course EMS™ – An introduction Thursday 15TH May 2014 Kettering Conference Centre, Kettering NN15 6PB

AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

282

TIME: A.M

PRESENTATION

TIME: P.M

08.30 - 09.00

Registration

12.00 - 12.30

09.00 - 09.15

Introduction & History of the Course

09.15 - 09.45

The Airway Algorithms

12.30 - 13.30

09-45 - 10.30

Prediction of the Difficult Airway

13.30 - 14.00

10.30 - 11.15

BVM and Laryngoscopy

11.15 - 11.30

Tea/Coffee, Exhibition

11.30 - 12.00

Skills Stations (4 rotations/30 min. each)

PRESENTATION Skill Stations Rotation 2 Lunch, Exhibition Skill Stations Rotation 3

14.00 - 14.30

Skill Stations Rotation 4

Group 1

BVM, ETI

14.30 - 14.45

Group 2

EGD’s & Rescue Airways

14.45 - 15.00

Group 3

Needle & Surgical Airway

15.00 - 17.00

Group 4

Video Laryngoscopy

17.00

Airway Self Scope Video Tea/Coffee, Exhibition Practical Moulages Wrap up

Topics and Speakers correct at the time of press but may be subject to change

CPD certificate provider

Delegate Rate: £72.00 (inc VAT) includes: delegate bag, refreshments and the opportunity to visit over 60 trade stands.

Only 7 places remain available!!

To register call 01322 660434 or visit:

www.lifeconnections.uk.com For further recruitment vacancies visit: www.ambulanceukonline.com

THE CLASSIFIED SITE

PARAMEDICS - SOUTH WEST £22,128 TO £35,577 (PLUS ENHANCEMENTS)* Join us and you’ll find an Ambulance Service that understands the better we look after you, the better equipped you’ll be to look after our patients.

We are passionate about providing care closer to home and equip all of our staff with the training, support and skills they need to deliver a higher level of care, enabling more of our patients to be treated without conveyance to hospital. And we want a better future for you too. Our career framework supports our paramedics to develop specialist or managerial careers, with the progression of many of our current staff testament to our commitment to internal progression and career development Whether you crave a coastal location, the best of the British countryside or the historic cities of Cheltenham, Bath and Bristol (to name but a few), you really will find a better lifestyle outside of work here in the beautiful South West.

• • • •

The most clinically advanced Trust within the UK Permanent and bank opportunities available One of the most beautiful parts of the country Lowest conveyance rate in the UK

Let us look after you better.

For your next career move visit www.betterparamedic.co.uk

• A better work-life balance • Dedicated staff support service • Structured career pathways

/swasFT

Better you, Better everybody.

WORKING WONDERS Join Us. Do you have anything you would like to add or include? Please contact us and let us know.

AMBULANCE UK - DECEMBER

* Depending on qualification/ registration status

283

Does he need a trauma centre or the local hospital?

Twenty-year-old male in a motor vehicle accident. Airbag has deployed. Car has significant front-end damage.

Is he bleeding internally? Will he need a trauma centre?

These are some of the questions you need to answer on a suspected trauma call, as haemorrhage is the leading cause of death after injury.1 The new trauma parameters on the ZOLL X SeriesÂŽ help you accurately and quickly assess your patients so you can feel more confident in your treatment decisions.

Insight for informed decisions. www.zoll.com/uk/trauma-care Acosta JA, et al. Journal of the American College of Surgeons. 1998;186(5):528-533.

1

Š2016 ZOLL Medical Corporation, Chelmsford, MA, USA. X Series and ZOLL are trademarks or registered trademarks of ZOLL Medical Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.

MCN IP 1601 0092-05