QAS Insight Magazine - Autumn 2021 Edition by QAS Insight Magazine

CAA AWARDS • GOONDIWINDI CENTENARY • INDIGENOUS SCHOLARSHIPS • HARU REPORT

Autumn 2021

Also inside Legacy Recipients

COVID-19 VACCINE ROLLOUT Ambulance Australia

Season YYYY

Challenging Case

Shark Bite Reunion

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CONTENTS • Autumn 2021

Features

Regulars Minister’s message

Commissioner’s message

News 4 LARU Report

OpCen Reports

ISRE Report

Priority One

HARU Report

Thank yous

RESPECT PILOT

REMARKABLE RECOVERY

QAS INSIGHT is published quarterly by the QAS Media Unit, GPO Box 1425, Brisbane QLD 4001.

TANIA’S LEGACY

FILMING TOPIC UNDERWAY TITLE

Editorial and photographic contributions are welcome and can be submitted to: QAS.Media@ambulance.qld.gov.au

00 18

RICK’S BRAVE FIGHT

QAS AND LAC ANNIVERSARY

COVID-19 RESPONSE

HORSE FALL REUNION

Happenings 46 Movers and shakers

Want to contribute? If you know of a QAS ‘quiet achiever’ or an event or program with a story worth sharing with our colleagues, please get in touch with INSIGHT editor Jo Hales by email (above) or phone 3635 3900. Autumn 2021 edition contributors: Jo Hales, Michael Augustus, Andrew Kos, Jo Mitchell, Matt Stirling and Tracey Cater. Designed by: Paper & Desk

Front cover: This edition’s four-page COVID-19 feature covers the latest developments including the vaccine rollout. Pictured is North West LASN paramedic Renique Mullot receiving the first of her two vaccinations at Mt Isa Hospital. Read more on pages 26 – 29. Photo: North West Hospital and Health Service.

Autumn 2021

Minister

Commissioner

Emergency Departments across our state are seeing significant, sustained and unprecedented demand pressures.

Firstly, I am very proud to advise that six of our officers have been recognised in the 2021 Council of Ambulance Authorities (CAA) Women in Ambulance Awards.

Between 1 July 2020 and 28 February 2021, there were over 1.58 million presentations (including fever clinic activity) to Queensland’s emergency departments, an increase of 11.5 per cent. At the time of writing, there were almost 80 beds being used for COVID patients, close to the highest number since the start of the pandemic. Almost 600 public hospital beds are taken up by patients who are awaiting placement in aged care and disability facilities. In March, I wrote to the Federal Minister to request Federal Government assistance in finding suitable accommodation for these individuals. We have staff spread across hotel quarantine facilities.These hardworking staff are also managing fever clinics, vaccination hubs and clearing the elective surgery lists caused by COVID thanks to our $250 million investment. We also know that COVID still requires ongoing significant resourcing to ensure we can react quickly to situations as they arise. And we know the flow on effect is placing additional pressures on the Queensland Ambulance Service.

However, Patient off Stretcher Time in the year to February 2021 has declined from 73.6 per cent in 30 minutes to 70.9 per cent in 40 minutes when comparing the same period in 2019/20. Additionally, Lost Time has increased over 20 per cent from 51,931 hours to 62,676 hours in the same period. The Palaszczuk Government has a proud record of rebuilding Queensland’s health system, helping Queenslanders in need and we are not shying away from the challenges the health system is currently experiencing.

I would like to congratulate Director Human Resource Services Wendy Lowes, EMD Carissa Owens and paramedics Natasha Adams, Chloe Bree, Ashleigh O’Kane and Emma McKenzie on this honour. These awards were introduced in 2020 and aim to highlight successful and hardworking women in ambulance services in Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea. We are fortunate to have these officers whose outstanding career achievements make them role models for our staff and empower future generations of women to step into ambulance careers. On the topic of empowerment, I would like to reiterate that the QAS is committed to our RESPECT program which is designed to encourage all employees to speak up so that we can stamp out inappropriate workplace behaviour. RESPECT isn’t just limited to the QAS. As a registered health profession, we require RESPECT from our colleagues, including other health workers, to perform our vital role in keeping Queenslanders healthy. Therefore, I implore staff to contact me directly at Russell.Bowles@ambulance.qld.gov.au to tell me about your personal experiences at various touch points with other health care workers throughout your shifts, especially when handing patients over at our hospitals. Finally, I want to thank everyone for your ongoing professionalism and vigilance in what has been an extremely busy period dealing with a surge in workload, extreme weather including cyclones and flooding and the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

On 12 February, Queensland Health approved an additional $25 million to open additional bed capacity across the system, with $15 million already released to deliver an additional 1,300 beds. We are reactivating a successful campaign regarding what type of presentations are suitable for an emergency department. In other welcome news, 50 additional paramedics will be employed in April, taking further pressure off the system. During a meeting of the Patient Access Advisory Committee at a recent parliamentary sitting week–which included representation from HHSs, consumer groups and unions–we worked together to identify strategies to deal with these unprecedented pressures. Our health system has weathered the seismic shock of the COVID-19 pandemic. We now face an unprecedented influx of demand. While there will inevitably be challenges, I am confident that with record funding, and courageous and resilient staff, we will be able–through QAS and Queensland Health–to continue providing world class care to all Queenslanders.

Yvette D’Ath Minister for Health and Ambulance Services

Autumn 2021

Russell Bowles ASM QAS Commissioner

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No excuse for EMD abuse campaign update In December 2020, the Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) launched a social media campaign to educate the general public about the abuse our Emergency Medical Dispatchers (EMDs) receive when taking Triple Zero (000) calls and the effect this has on our employees. Assistant Commissioner, State Operations Centres Peter Warrener said sadly, our hard-working EMDs continue to receive verbal abuse from patients or the patient’s advocate when they are entering the Health System via Triple Zero (000). “Lately, I have listened to calls where the caller has just taken their frustration totally out on the EMD, who was so polite, respectful and only wanted to help with getting the vital information to dispatch an ambulance,’’ Peter said.

were stressed which uplifted their communication tone and directness’.” “While this may happen on some occasions, the State Operations Centre is wanting to provide some more assistance through education and we are currently working with our Mental Health Response Program Director Sandra Garner on a future education package for EMDs about how communication styles may be able to de-escalate a caller’s anxiety so the right information can be obtained for the right ambulance to be deployed to the right address,” he said. Below, left and right

■ Peter Warrener. ■ EMDs are strongly encouraged to report any abusive behaviour when taking Triple Zero (000) calls.

“I think it’s so wrong that this abusive/frustrating tone of the caller continues on a regular basis for our staff. “Within Operations Centres, we are strongly encouraging our staff to report these types of situations via the SHE system along with the social media campaign that was recently undertaken to stress the importance that there is no excuse for abuse. Peter said when the subject gets discussed with QAS staff, a comment I get is that ‘the patient wasn’t abusive, they

ASM recipients An incredible combined 116 years of service was celebrated in January with three QAS officers announced as Ambulance Service Medal (ASM) recipients in the Australia Day 2021 Honours List. Advanced Care Paramedics Gary Cotterill, Gene Curtis and Julie Calvert will receive the prestigious ASM which recognises distinguished and outstanding service by the men and women of Australia’s ambulance organisations. It is acknowledgement of their outstanding service to the community and as role models within the QAS. Gary works at Childers Ambulance Station and is celebrating 42 years of ambulance service in Queensland. He began his career as an Ambulance Officer in 1979 at the Queensland Ambulance Transport Brigade (QATB) in Brisbane. He is highly valued and respected by the Childers and broader Queensland community, his peers and the QAS. Gary initially retired two years ago but missed the teal uniform and his job so much he returned to his duties as a paramedic after a short retirement stint. Gene is based at Bowen Ambulance Station and has served in the QAS for more than four decades, commencing as an Honorary Ambulance Officer with the QATB in Cloncurry in 1979. He has held many different roles, including an 11-year stint as the Officer-in-Charge of Collinsville Ambulance Station. Paramedic Julie Calvert is based at Cleveland Ambulance Station and has diligently served the Brisbane community for more than 32 years. She commenced her operational career with Queensland ambulance in 1989 as an Ambulance Officer. Top to bottom

■ Gary Cotterill, Gene Curtis and Julie Calvert.

Autumn 2021

NEWS • Autumn 2021

Falls program makes lasting impression An innovative QAS program aimed at preventing elderly people from falls, continues to make a lasting impression in the Metro North Local Ambulance Service Network (LASN) almost two years after being implemented. The Community Falls Follow Up Program is a partnership between Metro North HHS Community and Oral Health (COH), Brisbane North Primary Health Network (PHN) and the QAS. Late last year the project was Highly Commended in the Excellence in Integrated Care category at the Metro North HHS Staff Excellence Awards. The project was established in response to an identified need to respond to an increasing number of people aged over 65 who fell in the community, required assistance and assessment from the QAS but did not require transfer to hospital for immediate treatment. It was further identified that many of these people had multiple subsequent falls resulting in a QAS response but were having no further assessment and treatment to prevent or at the very least limit further falls. The program works by paramedics referring eligible patients to the program, with the patients then provided with multiple services. The PHN service referrals are actioned within 48 hours of receipt and a face-to-face visit is conducted within five days of referral. Metro North LASN paramedics made more than 400 referrals to the program, of which more than 200 cases were accepted for further care from COH and PHN.

Critical Care Paramedic and Clinical Support Officer Wayne Loudon, who participated in a video for the falls program to be released soon, routinely uses the service and said he ‘would strongly encourage all paramedics to contribute to preventative health care through initiatives such as the falls referral’. “Paramedics are one of the few health professionals that can assess and care for vulnerable persons within their own home. This gives us a unique opportunity to not just be reactive to health care needs but to be proactive,” Wayne said. “There is clear evidence that shows seemingly benign falls without injury warrant further investigation since they may indicate a subtle underlying social, psychological or medical need or in fact be the precursor to a more serious fall. With the one-year mortality rate being as high as 58 per cent following these falls, prevention is better than acute care.” Above

■ Matthew Green (QAS), Sharon Gavioli (PHN), Mary Wheeldon and Kate Schultz (Metro North HHS COH) at the Metro North HHS Staff Excellence Awards presentation.

Urraween Ambulance Station opening Urraween Ambulance Station became our second ambulance station in the Hervey Bay township after the new facility was officially opened on 3 March by QAS Deputy Commissioner Dee Taylor-Dutton and Assistant Minister for Health and Regional Health Infrastructure Julieanne Gilbert MP. The $3.2 million project provides first-class amenities, with 16 Advanced Care Paramedics, an Officer-in-Charge and an Indigenous Cadet calling the new station home. Urraween provides a 24-hour rapid response to the developing areas of Booral and River Heads, Dundowran Beach and Craignish and further afield to Toogoom and Burrum Heads while supporting the existing Hervey Bay Ambulance Station. Wide Bay QAS staff, locals, Members of Parliament, fellow emergency service agencies and the Hervey Bay Local Ambulance Committee attended the launch. A special mention goes to Aunty Karen Blackman and the Butchulla community for performing a great Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony. Aunty Karen also contributed an impressive Indigenous artwork to the station. This piece creatively depicts the region’s emergency health services and the community they protect.

Autumn 2021

New training promotes safe workplace culture The Priority One RESPECT Training was originally developed to provide education around sexual harassment to the Fair and Inclusive Practice Network (FIPN) and the Senior Executives. At the end of the day’s training, Commissioner Russell Bowles felt that the discussion and learning that was had throughout the day should not be limited to only those two groups. He felt that it should be delivered to all staff across the state, regardless of work role within the organisation.

Above

Priority One Director Todd Wehr.

Autumn 2021

RESPECT training

After picking myself up off the floor aware of the size of the task ahead, I recognised that this was an excellent opportunity to potentially prevent psychological injury from occurring in the first instance. Over the past 30 years, Priority One has been providing support to staff who have experienced harassment from their colleagues, as well as support to staff who have been alleged to have harassed their colleagues. I know that not all these instances were intentional and that most of our colleagues don’t go to work with the intention of deliberately wanting to harm their peers. But sadly, sometimes that is what happens. The training is now beginning to be rolled out across the state after a number of pilot sessions in the south east corner and Far North Queensland. Designed to examine the psychological underpinnings in relation to sexual harassment, the training delves into the importance of our role in creating a workplace culture where everyone feels valued and safe. It does this through discussion and exercises designed to open communication in a safe environment. Some people have expressed concerns that this is a push for political correctness and that we can no longer talk freely and have fun in the workplace. That is not the intention of the training. The training

is designed to open communication so that people can know and understand what their colleagues find confronting. There is also no reason why you still cannot have fun. Having fun in the work environment is an important way of reducing stress and improving wellbeing, as long as it is not at the expense or exclusion of someone else. People should not be harmed in order to have fun. At some point over the next twelve months you will have the opportunity to do the training and I hope that you will experience what many others have experienced so far. That this is an informative and empowering opportunity to create a workplace culture that we can all feel safe within and proud to be a part of.

Opposite, top

Priority One Psychologist Kirstine Britton in Cairns demonstrating how given the environment even ‘good’ people might sometimes do bad things. Opposite, background

The day provided opportunity for discussion and learning, not only from the facilitators but also from the participants within the group. Above

Interactive exercises provided an opportunity for greater learning and awareness. The Cairns and Hinterland and Cape York staff presented on why brown eye colour is superior.

Autumn 2021

Rostering flexibility in an Operational Environment Balancing the diverse individual needs of staff with the service delivery of an ambulance organisation requires innovation and agility writes Darling Downs LASN Acting Assistant Commissioner Tony Armstrong.

Autumn 2021

Workforce Flexibility

To respond and support service delivery to over 75,000 square kilometres with more than 300 staff working from 27 response locations affected by the tyranny of distance requires ongoing innovation to supplement traditional workforce models. The opportunity to support the increasing requirements for staff flexibility has provided us the ability to do this. Darling Downs LASN is providing flexibility through the development of dynamic, agile and innovative methods that help roster our people in a way that compliments the traditional approach. Our commitment recognises societal changes and the diverse workforce management practices required to balance competing personal and professional commitments of our staff with service delivery requirements. We have seen multi-faceted rostering solutions developed that promote workforce flexibility whilst aligning the provision of staff to operational demand. For a number of years now the ability to support staff accessing either a part time or fully flexible arrangement has continued to increase. Accommodating employees who need greater flexibility has resulted in the LASN adapting different workforce management practices and these are continually evolving to support individual needs and circumstances and provide coverage for changing demand profiles. A change underpinned by staff driven workforce management was implemented with the new Drayton Ambulance Station to Rostered Day Off (RDO) request-based methodology. This blends with traditional rostering practices to allow staff to self-select their days off over a roster projection cycle. Ultimately providing a balance for those who prefer a structured and consistent work pattern whilst promoting flexibility for staff to balance the complexities of their work/life balance. The model is still in its infancy and staff have provided a varying feedback with both positive and negative feedback continuing to drive innovation to explore options. Momentum is gaining across other Stations that are trialling roster variations that facilitates staff working nights only and the remainder working days and afternoons only. Some have moved to a mixture of part time and flexible

shifts blended with traditional roster cycles that improve flexibility and support the 24/7 service delivery requirements and expectations of the community. Flexibility requires LASNs to consider the service demands of the community and incorporate varied rostering options that are adaptable to individual stations or groups of stations. Actively promoting flexibility within Darling Downs LASN can best be achieved with staff, Fair and Inclusive Practice Officers (FIPO), United Workers Union (UWU) delegates and management working collaboratively to develop solutions outside of traditional workforce practices.

Above

Acting Assistant Commissioner Tony Armstrong.

Promoting flexibility is everyone’s responsibility and here are some examples of strategies we are finding useful in achieving better outcomes: • A focused mindset to challenge the ‘this how we have always done things around here’ way of thinking.

• Employees, FIPOs, UWU delegates and management all working together to develop solutions is essential. • Rarely is there a one fit solution. Rostering methodologies may need to be tailored to the service delivery area.

Opposite

• Balancing expectations, with flexibility comes offset. You may not get exactly what you require but with compromise you can achieve a balance for everyone. • Being part time or flexible full time can provide unique opportunities to support development opportunities.

Staff at the new Drayton Station are among those in the Darling Downs LASN trialling innovative rostering methods. Above

Drayton Station exterior.

• Station flexibility starts with a conversation, consultation is important and you don’t need to wait for employees to ask, go first, look for areas that can accommodate increased flexibility in providing service delivery. • Don’t shy away from the challenge or get put off by traditional barriers.

Autumn 2021

Patient Mylene (Mylo) Heidke, 30, was initially unresponsive when single responder officer Zak arrived on scene on 13 December 2020. She was lying face down in a pool of blood after coming off her electric scooter. Thankfully, some bystanders were monitoring Mylo, who had not been wearing a helmet. “I asked the bystanders what happened as I got my gear out of the truck. It was immediately obvious she had a serious head injury,” Zak said. “I could see soft boggy mass at the back of Mylo’s head and some spinal fluid leaking from her nose and ear. I knew straight away she would need to go to hospital by chopper. “The problem was trying to get radio and satellite reception and mobile coverage. Mowbray has lots of communication blackspots. Where the crash occurred was surrounded by dense rainforest.” On top of that, Zak was acutely aware they were in crocodile territory. Not too far away was the infamous Mowbray River Bridge on the Captain Cook Highway and a viewing platform near the site where people stop to peek at the resident crocodiles sunbaking under the bridge. The Mowbray River is also connected to lots of creeks which the reptiles inhabit, one of which was very close to where the patient was located. As Mylo entered in and out of consciousness, Zak got to work immobilising her spine with the help of the bystanders. However, his critically ill patient wasn’t making it easy.

Zak’s skills put to the test at challenging brain injury case Insight Editor Jo Hales reports on Port Douglas Advanced Care Paramedic Zak Pitra’s challenging job involving a patient with a traumatic brain injury. Zak was the first paramedic on scene at Mowbray where he had to contend with a combative patient, communication issues and the unsettling knowledge that crocodiles were close by. Above

■ Zak and Mylo in Mowbray at Mylo’s property. Background

■ The beautiful Daintree Village is one of the many locations Zak has attended jobs in the Cairns and Hinterland LASN. Opposite, clockwise from left

■ Zak loves working in the Cairns and Hinterland LASN. ■ Zak’s fur baby Milly gave birth to ten pups this year. ■ New Mum Milly at Zak’s Port Douglas home.

Autumn 2021

“Mylo was being combative because of the head injury. Then when I got a cannula and line into her, she ripped them out and tore the collar off. She was like a wriggly worm,” Zak said. Zak said when Mossman Indigenous Paramedic Program cadet Petrina Neller arrived, it was great having an extra set of hands. “We got Mylo onto the stretcher and I asked Petrina to gently hold her in place without restraining her. I was worried if Mylo moved around too much, it could increase the cranial pressure and make the bleeding worse. “Petrina followed instructions and did a great job.” When he made contact with the communications centre, Zak requested the rescue chopper and said, ‘we need to get the patient out quick because if we don’t, she will die’. One of the bystanders then assisted by driving the truck towards the highway to the chopper landing site where they would also have better reception, while Zak supervised Petrina and they provided patient care. “Mylo was still extremely hard to manage so I decided to ring the Clinical Consultation and Advice Line to see if we could medicate her due to the cerebral agitation,” Zak said. By the time the truck reached the meeting spot, more back up had arrived in the form of Mossman paramedics Tina Tucker and Anthony Wemm.

Challenging clinical case

“It was such a breath of fresh air to have more people assisting and helping with the advanced care,” Zak said. The consult line authorised Zak to administer Mylo with 10mg of Droperidol IV. This was followed by Fentanyl pain relief. “The Droperidol worked within a minute and calmed her right down.” Zak and the others assisted Rescue 510 chopper crew when they arrived on scene to airlift Mylo to Townsville Hospital in a critical condition. The Doctor Cath Tacon and Flight Critical Care Paramedic Lauretta Howarth intubated Mylo at the scene. Zak later found out that Mylo had a skull fracture and subarachnoid haemorrhage. After Mylo had been airlifted, there was still more drama to unfold when Zak and Petrina had an unwelcome encounter with a crocodile. “After the job the truck was depleted and needed to be cleaned so we drove it to a spot further down the road and parked the truck,’’ Zak said. “That’s when I noticed a crocodile stalking us. “It would have been about 40 metres away. I’m not sure how long it had been there, but it was a bit unnerving.” Not that Zak is a stranger to crocodile jobs. In 2015, he inadvertently gained fame when responding to a Port Douglas golf course when one of the golfers was bitten on the leg by a crocodile while attempting to retrieve a golf ball in a water trap. Media coverage of the incident, which left the elderly patient with a deep laceration to his shin and puncture wounds to his calf, was beamed around the world and Zak was interviewed by multiple news organisations. Zak recently reunited with Mylo who was later transferred to Cairns Hospital and was back home at the start of February. Zak said he was amazed by how well she was recovering. “Mylo is very lucky to be alive. She does have issues with taste and smell, and can only hear in one ear, but other than that, there are no neurological deficits, which is surprising due to the injuries she sustained.”

In the early phases, Zak had his fair share of cases. “One of the jobs involved a woman visiting from Melbourne,’’ Zak said. “She had chest pain and after the 12-lead ECG it was discovered that her left anterior descending artery was blocked. “I was the first on scene but when the other officer arrived, we administered Tenecteplase and it cleared the clot. At hospital she went straight into the catheter lab and had stents put in. A few days later she was able to fly back to Melbourne.” Another job he attended was a patient in Port Douglas suffering from chest pain. “On arrival it was obvious he was having a massive heart attack,’’ Zak said. “I used Tenecteplase and we were able to clear the clot forming in his heart. “It is such a wonderful feeling being able to provide our very ill patients with this level of care.’’ Zak started with the QAS in 2006. He previously worked for the Emergency Services Telecommunications Authority which looks after communications for all services in Victoria and was stationed at Police Headquarters in Melbourne. When he is not donning his teal uniform, Zak, and partner David, are busy caring for their fur baby Milly, who became a mother for the first time this year. Milly had 10 pups, sadly, one of the babies, the runt of the litter, did not survive. There was no shortage of people putting their hands up for the pups, with the remainder of the litter, apart from one called Zeus, distributed to Zak’s QAS and Queensland Police Service colleagues once they were old enough to be weaned off Mum. While it was hard to part with the pups, Zak said he and David are grateful for Milly and Zeus and are looking forward to some extra sleep. “Helping Milly with the pups was rewarding but also exhausting,’’ Zak said.

Zak said a grateful Mylo was extremely happy to see one of her teal angels and asked if she could hug him, while her brother and father expressed how thankful they were to all of those involved. “This is one of the reasons I do what I do. I love being able to make a difference to the lives of people,” Zak said. “I also love working for an organisation that is a leader in prehospital care.” One of the clinical advances that has brought him much satisfaction was when Advanced Care Paramedics were allowed to administer patients with the clot busting drug Tenecteplase.

Autumn 2021

QAS achievers receive top honours in ambulance awards

Wendy Lowes 12

Natasha Adams

Director, Human Resource Services

Senior Critical Care Paramedic– High Acuity Response Unit officer

Wendy originally commenced in the public service in 1990 as an Administration Officer (AO1) with the QATB. Over the last 30 years, Wendy has performed roles across all facets of HR, starting in payroll, recruitment, establishment management, providing HR advice and support to senior management, executives and staff. Wendy has successfully led and managed several high performing teams throughout her career and was permanently appointed to the role of Director Human Resource Services in 2018.

Tash commenced her career with the QAS as a student paramedic completing a BHSc Paramedicine before starting at Beenleigh Station in August 2007. She then progressed through a variety of senior education and clinical roles. Tash became a CCP in 2013 after completing a Graduate Diploma (CCP). In May 2020 Tash qualified as a HARU officer. Tash has gone on to develop her career through senior clinical, education and management roles, enhancing her knowledge through a Master of Health Care Leadership and is now completing a second Masters in Traumatology.

Autumn 2021

Chloe Bree Advanced Care Paramedic II Chloe commenced her career with QAS as an Honorary Ambulance Officer in 2008 while completing a BHSc Paramedicine before starting at Dalby Station as an Intern in July 2010. Chloe then moved to Nathan Station in 2015 and then Durack Station as a permanent officer. Chloe has recently completed a term transfer to the Gold Coast LASN where she has worked at various stations. Chloe has reached the rank of senior paramedic and enjoys working with university students and Graduate Paramedics.

CAA awards

Congratulations to six of our finest Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) females–Wendy Lowes, Natasha Adams, Chloe Bree, Ashleigh O’Kane, Carissa Owens and Emma McKenzie–who have been recognised in the 2021 Council of Ambulance Authorities (CAA) Women in Ambulance Awards. The awards were launched in 2020 and are designed to highlight successful and hardworking women in ambulance services across Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea. The awards aim to empower and inspire future generations of women to step into ambulance careers and progress into leadership roles and management levels.

Ashleigh O’Kane

Carissa Owens

Advanced Care Paramedic II

Emergency Medical Dispatcher

Ashleigh commenced with the QAS in 2008 as an Honorary Ambulance Officer while completing a BHSc Paramedicine before starting at Kirwan in 2010. Ashleigh has worked across multiple LASNs in metropolitan, urban, and regional stations and has held various supervisory roles such as OIC, OS and SOS. Ashleigh currently works in the SIMR within the SIMR team in various roles. Ashleigh continually supports executive managers and other members across a broad range of requests such as logistics, planning, operations, medical services, intelligence and shift commander.

Carissa Frew Owens commenced with the QAS in 2010 as an EMD. As well as being an EMD, Carissa has worked on the Queensland Health Authorised Transports team which was responsible for hospital billing requirements for ambulance transfers. She has also worked on the Information Support Unit which assisted the Medical Director’s Office in investigations, and she has worked on the Operational Support Unit team which provides support to Operations Centres. Carissa was involved in the InformCAD upgrade and testing of systems prior to deployment. In 2020, Carissa also became the FIPN officer for State Operations Centres.

Emma McKenzie Senior Operations Supervisor, Emergency Management Unit Prior to commencing with the QAS in 2010, Emma had a successful career as a professional athlete across various sports. Emma worked in various LASNs as a paramedic and supervisor before being appointed to the Emergency Management Unit. In early 2020 with the commencement of COVID-19 pandemic, Emma worked closely with many of the senior executives in the strategic planning and preparation aspects for QAS and she continues this work through the response and recovery phases. Emma has supported the SIMR team in planning and monitoring the QAS response, setting up and leading fever clinics across multiple sites, and the development or updating of pandemic and emergency management policies and procedures.

Autumn 2021

Legacy funding helps pay for the ‘little’ yet important things

Dennis Finch invites Insight Editor Jo Hales into his home to talk about his late wife Tania, a popular QAS officer who sadly lost her brave fight with breast cancer in 2017. Dennis is raising their beautiful daughter Zoe, 9. He talks about life without Tania and how the ‘little’ things, such as funding from the Queensland Ambulance Service Legacy Scheme (QAS Legacy) helps him support Zoe who has nonverbal autism. Former QAS paramedic and Patient Transport Officer Tania Finch (nee Kennedy) was the kind of person who would light up a room the moment she walked in. She had a beautiful smile, was bubbly and stood out with her ever-changing hair colour. Most importantly, she was caring and compassionate and family and friends meant everything to her. For a long time, Tania and Dennis, who has children from a previous relationship, tried for a much-wanted child of their own. After several attempts at IVF, the couple received the news Tania was pregnant with Zoe. Both were over the moon. Tania would later say, ‘Zoe completed her’ and that ‘she was her greatest achievement’. However, tragedy struck in 2014 when Tania received the devastating news she had breast cancer. Zoe was just 18 months old. “Tania fought the cancer for a while and eventually went into remission,’’ Dennis said.

“But one day just before Christmas in 2016 she was feeling a bit off, so she went and saw the doctor. “He said, ‘I’ll let you have Christmas Day at home, but you are right back into hospital on Boxing Day’. “After that, Tania was on all kinds of cancer drugs for months and she seemed to be going okay. Then in October 2017, she was told she had up to seven years to live, however, she ended up passing away five weeks after that diagnosis.” Dennis, a Seaman, had just flown out to work on oil fields, 440 nautical miles offshore in the Timor Sea, when Tania’s condition suddenly deteriorated. “When I was given the news, they turned the vessel around and brought me straight back to port and I flew back home,” Dennis said. “I kept Tania at home as long as I could. But the week before she died, I couldn’t manage caring for her at home anymore. She was

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unable to walk, and I had a shoulder injury and didn’t have the strength to carry her.” Before Tania was transported to hospital for her final journey, Dennis, his eldest daughter Amanda and close friends organised an End of Life party. “We blocked off the street and all the neighbours and Tania’s friends attended. It was a beautiful event and a great way for everyone to say their goodbyes,” he said. Zoe was five years old at the time of Tania’s passing, and Dennis said his intuitive daughter ‘whose autism gives her insight’, knew her Mum was dying the last time she saw her in the hospital. “Zoe stood at the end of the bed and watched her Mum. I could tell she knew it was going to be the last time she saw her. A few days later, on 16 November, Tania passed away.” She was just 46 years of age.

QAS Legacy

After Tania’s funeral, which included a QAS Guard of Honour, half of Tania’s ashes were scattered in Lake Tekapo in New Zealand. The place was special for Dennis and Tania, as they had married in the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd located on the shores of the famous lake. “The remainder were scattered at Purlingbrook Falls at Springbrook National Park on the Gold Coast–another one of Tania’s favourite spots,” Dennis said. In the days and weeks following Tania’s death, Dennis not only had to adjust to life without his much-loved wife and the mother of his youngest child, he also had to modify his work to care for Zoe. “I ended up having to do a complete lifestyle change,” said Dennis who now works casual shifts on tugboats in the Port of Brisbane. “I work casually so that I can say yes or no to work on that day. I pick and choose my shifts so that it fits in around Zoe. “Tania’s friends also continue to be a really big help and look after Zoe on occasions when I work.” An initiative that is ‘helping provide sanity’ for Dennis is the funding he receives from QAS Legacy. “The funding is very helpful and goes towards Zoe’s extra-curricular activities,” Dennis said. “When you are a single parent, the funding makes a big difference. I am very appreciative of the support…It means I don’t have to worry about finding extra money to buy things.” The funding goes towards Zoe’s hip hop classes, ‘which are a great social interaction for her’, and swim school fees. “It also helps out with certain programs and technology Zoe needs for education that are expensive and getting Zoe back to school at the start of each year and other school costs that occur throughout the year,” he said. Dennis said the Legacy funding also assists with buying Zoe new clothes ‘because she is growing that quick’.

“At the moment I need to buy Zoe a new wardrobe every eight to ten weeks,” Dennis said. Other costs that Dennis encounters relate to specialist appointments. “Zoe is attending psychology and speech pathologists who are working in conjunction to decrease her anxiety because when it gets close to her Mum’s birthday or the anniversary of her death, she glues herself to me like chewing gum,’’ Dennis said. “I have to explain, ‘I’m just going outside to the car to get something’ to try and ease the anxiety.” Dennis said Zoe’s autism was diagnosed around the same time Tania was first diagnosed with cancer.

“I try and take Zoe to Purlingbrook Falls every month and she knows we can go there whenever she wants to chat with her Mum,’’ Dennis said. “We always take a bunch of flowers and throw them in the water. Nine times out of ten the carnations and roses, which were Tania’s favourite flowers, separate and go to the same spot and the others disappear.” Opposite

Dennis and Zoe Finch.

Photo: Jo Hales.

Above from left to right

Tania, Dennis and Zoe Finch. Tania commenced her QAS career as a paramedic at Woodridge Station. Zoe was Tania’s greatest achievement.

“Zoe was walking and talking at nine months, she was very interactive with people. Then she started showing these little quirks,” he said. The highly intelligent nine-year-old is currently attending Logan City Special School where ‘they have worked wonders with her,’ said Dennis. “They teach kids the standard school curriculum, but they also teach them how to integrate into society when they leave school so that they become self-sufficient. “The school bus picks Zoe up at my doorstep and drops her off at the doorstep. It gives her independence.” For now, Dennis is busy planning a party in April to honour Tania on what would have been her 50th birthday. “Zoe and I will have a cake and a celebration on 7 April, which is Tania’s birthday. Then we will have the party with family and friends on 10 April which is the birthday of Tania’s sister Sonia. Tania and Sonia always celebrated their birthdays together.”

QAS Legacy is a charitable organisation that provides a range of services to QAS families who have suffered the loss of a loved one. You can support QAS Legacy by setting up a fortnightly payroll donation, with all donations of $2 and over tax-deductible. To make a donation, scan the QR code. You can also visit the QAS Legacy website or follow QAS Legacy Facebook.

Dennis said while he and Zoe miss Tania dearly, they always find comfort when visiting her favourite spots such as Purlingbrook Falls.

Autumn 2021

Welfare check on the ‘well’ septic patient LARU officer David Krygger reports on a code 2C case involving a welfare check on an elderly patient living in public housing who was not answering phone calls from her family. I asked Dorothy about this prescription and she was unable to remember why she needed that. This prompted me to ask about any urinary symptoms recently and whether I could conduct an abdominal examination. She answered that she had been feeling well recently, with no urinary or other symptoms. Her abdominal examination was N.A.D. When doing her vital-signs I found the following:

Above

LARU officer David Krygger is based at Mermaid Waters Ambulance Station on the Gold Coast.

I was met at the front door by Dorothy, an 89-year-old female who was surprised to see me.

I explained to Dorothy that we had been called because her family had been worried about her this morning when she had not answered her phone. Dorothy seemed surprised that she had not heard the phone but stated that she had forgotten to put her hearing aids in today and was very apologetic. Dorothy presented calm and was engaging reasonably well in the conversation, she was independently mobile and even offered to make me a cup of tea, which I politely refused. She had no pain or discomfort, admitted that her sleeping hadn’t been the best recently, but that this was normal for her in recent years. On face value, her presentation seemed normal for an elderly person living at home alone– with a reasonable excuse for not hearing the phone calls from her family. I asked if I could see her medications, to which she pulled out a large plastic box filled with multiple boxes of tablets. I found anti-hypertensives, statins, a beta-blocker, aspirin, methotrexate, Panadol osteo and Ural sachets. She told me that she had high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels and rheumatoid arthritis. Many of the boxes were empty, and some had old prescription dates on them. Notably, I found a box of trimethoprim with most of the tablets still in the sleeve and a prescription date from five days ago.

• BP–110/80 • HR–70bpm–Sinus Rhythm on 4-lead ECG • RR–24 • Temp–37.1 • BSL–5.8 • SpO2–97% on room air • GCS 15–But slow in answering some more complex questions. I was now concerned about Dorothy due to her recent prescription and non-compliance of an oral antibiotic, her recent acute forgetfulness, immunocompromised status, her mild tachypnoea and likely relative hypotension. My provisional diagnosis was that she likely had an untreated and worsening Urinary Tract Infection (UTI), possibly a urosepsis. I called her General Practitioner (GP) to seek some further information, to which I found out that she had been prescribed Trimethoprim for a UTI, but had not returned to the GP as requested within two days for a follow up and that she had not been answering her phone. The GP confirmed an E.coli infection post urinalysis. Her GP and I agreed that even though she was presenting well outwardly; she was at risk of rapid deterioration. The recent history of missed phone calls could be a ‘warning shot’ symptom about her deteriorating health.

Dorothy’s outward presentation • Calm and conversing reasonably well with me • Neat, tidy home • Well dressed, but with heavy clothes on

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• Not complaining of any symptoms or concerns.

Dorothy’s clinical status • Likely relative hypotension (110mmHg) in a normally hypertensive elderly patient • Tachypnoea at 24bpm in the setting of a known infection–Is she currently acidotic? • GCS 15, but with some key memory loss.

Dorothy has a high-risk acute medical profile • Advancing age • Lives alone • Meets SIRS moderate risk clinical features • Q-SOFA score = 1 • Evidence of poor medication compliance • Immunocompromised due to RA treatment • Confirmation from GP of recently diagnosed and unmanaged UTI • Recent abnormal behavioural changes– forgetfulness.

RESULT: Ultimately, I determined that Dorothy required a hospital admission because she was at high-risk of deterioration. I didn’t feel that referring her back to her GP would eliminate or significantly minimise her risk of deterioration. Dorothy was transported to the Emergency Department via a stretcher ambulance with O2 and IV fluids running where she was admitted as an in-patient for seven days with urosepsis.

FINDINGS: ‘Low acuity’ patients represent our most complex and certainly highest risk patient category. The risk for both the patient and the paramedic can be reduced significantly by taking a thorough history, a detailed assessment and testing a variety of differential diagnoses. Be aware of the patient who appears well; but isn’t.

Local-area Assessment and Referral Unit Report

Officers complete new pilot program Eight Local-area Assessment and Referral Unit (LARU) officers have successfully completed the new pilot Graduate Certificate in Enhanced Assessment and Critical Reasoning program. The inaugural officers–Jodie Doyle (Mackay LASN), Kenneth Eyles (Central West LASN), Michael Sams (Darling Downs LASN), Colin Payne (Sunshine Coast LASN), Debra Walters (West Moreton LASN), Jamie Hibbert and Kerrie Fissenden (Metro North LASN) and David Krygger (Gold Coast LASN)–were presented with their certificates by QASEC Director Tim Eva at a ceremony in Kedron’s Emergency Services Headquarters mid-December 2020. These officers had completed LARU studies previously and were able to upgrade to the Graduate Certificate via a Recognition of Previous Learning and assessment only pathway. The program focuses on enhanced holistic patient assessments including comprehensive

medical and social history taking, focused clinical examinations, advanced clinical reasoning, planning and facilitating care pathways, contemporary wound management, and development and maintenance of collaborative partnerships with local and regional health and community services.

Above

■ David Krygger, Kenneth Eyles, Kerrie Fissenden, Debra Walters, Colin Payne, Michael Sams, Jamie Hibbert and Jodie Doyle with their certificates.

Congratulations to the inaugural officers.

SA V

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Townsville Alice Springs

For tickets and more info: www.paramedics.org/events

www.paramedics.org @ACParamedicine

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Ambulance Australia Lights, camera, action again The QAS is proud to be filming another series of award-winning documentary series Ambulance Australia with production company Endemol Shine Australia. 18 Following the ratings success of the last series, filmed with the QAS in 2019 and first broadcast at the beginning of 2020, filming is again being undertaken with five crews and a single responder in the Metro North and Metro South LASNs. Stations involved this time around include Caboolture, Chermside, Balmoral, Nathan, Wynnum, Logan West, Redland Bay and Woodridge. In addition to this, cameras are also rolling in the Brisbane and Gold Coast Operations Centres from March to May. We look forward to seeing the excellent care provided to our patients by our on-road officers and communications staff highlighted on the small screen once filming wraps and the series is broadcast on Channel Ten.

Autumn 2021

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Supporting paramedics throughout their careers

Rick’s fight for survival following serious shark attack

Above

■ Rick was all smiles at the reunion.

Photo: Lachie Millard, The Courier Mail.

Right

■ Rick gives paramedic Alyah Ehierth a big hug.

Photo: Lachie Millard, The Courier Mail.

Opposite, left

■ Emergency crews working together to help save the life of Rick.

Photo: Cameron Bates, The Courier Mail.

Opposite, top right and bottom

■ Rick shows paramedic Alicia Locke his leg injuries. Opposite, bottom right

■ Rick with wife Angela and their two boys Troy and Dereck.

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Tracey Cater reports on an amazing story of survival, and a testimony to the strength and determination of one man and a team of paramedics, medical personnel and well‑tuned crew resource management.

Shark attack survivor

On 25 October 2020, good mates Rick Bettua and Peter Kocica were diving at Britomart Reef off Hinchinbrook Island when Peter saw a large bull shark racing towards Rick. Turning around in time to see it strike out, Rick felt the shark grab around his thigh. Immediately bleeding profusely, former navy diver Rick was remarkably able to pull himself onto the boat and worked with Peter to improvise a tourniquet using diving equipment. As fate would have it a bigger boat which was nearby had an off-duty doctor on board. Rick was soon transferred to this boat where Doctor Ben Reaves tried to stem the bleeding. Rick, holding onto thoughts of his wife Angela and their two boys, Troy and Dereck, managed to hang on to life until they almost reached the boat ramp, when he blacked out. At this point Ben began CPR as the boat was pulling into the dock. Waiting on the dock were paramedics, the helicopter rescue crew with Flight Critical Care Paramedic Riyu Yin and Flight Doctor David Humphreys, and a local doctor, all of whom wasted no time in administering blood to Rick immediately at the boat ramp.

Each person knew their role as they went into action. It took around an hour of exceptional teamwork from the flight crew and paramedics to stabilise Rick enough to achieve Return of Spontaneous Circulation and a moment of consciousness in which he was able to say, ‘you’re hurting me’. This was music to the ears of paramedic Alicia Locke who was applying pressure to the wound. Rick was flown to Townsville Hospital where he remained in a coma for several days and underwent multiple surgeries and skin grafts to save his leg. Amazingly, this was not Rick’s first serious encounter with a shark. When Glenn Dickson lost his leg to a shark bite incident in 2015 while diving with his friends in waters off Hinchinbrook Island, Rick was one of those mates and the one who applied the tourniquet saving the life of his fellow diver. In December 2020, Rick walked unassisted into Townsville Ambulance Station with his family to thank everybody involved in the incident.

This included paramedics Alicia, Alyah Ehierth and Richard Brown, RSQ Doctor David Humphreys, pilot Nick Kelly and bystander Bastien Iezzi from the boat that brought Rick to shore. Doctor Ben Reaves, Critical Care Flight Paramedic Ruiyi Yin, Emergency Medical Dispatcher Jarvis Nolan, hospital staff and boat owner Paul Lambert were also in everyone’s thoughts at the reunion as although they were unable to be there, they played a major role in Rick’s survival. For many who assisted Rick, the last memory they had of him was him being loaded onto the rescue helicopter unconscious and fighting to live, therefore it was a remarkable reunion for both patient and responders. Rick and Angela expressed their gratitude to everyone who played a role, including those not present, as well as the friends, families and the wider public that prayed and sent well wishes during Rick’s recovery. Rick left everyone that helped him with the message, ‘you didn’t just save my life, you gave my two boys a Father’.

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Operations Centre Reports

OpCen Reports Insight’s OpCen Reports highlight examples of outstanding responses to Triple Zero (000) calls by our dedicated staff at Operations Centres around the state. Southport

Emily Gordon Emily provided great support and reassurance to the caller, who was the mother of a disabled child with an apparent partial airway obstruction. Emily’s constant reassurance and clear instructions enabled her to keep the mother calm and focused on her child. This rapport helped Emily maintain control of the call when the partial obstruction became a complete obstruction with the patient subsequently arresting. Emily quickly recognised the complete obstruction selecting the ProQA ‘COMPLETE Obstruction (Conscious)’ fast track button and commencing Pre-Arrival Instructions (PAIs). During the CPR effort, the obstruction was dislodged, and the patient began breathing again. The crew arrived on scene and provided feedback that there was a positive patient outcome as a result of Emily’s actions.

The crew advised that ‘the work of the EMD on the phone and the instructions provided have quite literally saved this patient’s life and he is expected to have a good outcome’. The crew wished to express their gratitude to the EMD for their efforts on this case.

Call Lesson This call highlights the crucial link EMDs play in the Chain of Survival. Triple Zero (000) call taking is not just about gathering information for responding crews. The instructions that our EMDs provide can literally mean the difference between life and death. Regular practice of the delivery of PAIs helps ensure confidence when navigating these cases in usually highly emotive circumstances. In this instance, Emily was literally the ‘first First Responder’.

Brisbane

Andrew Smith Newly signed off Brisbane student EMD Andrew Smith received a call from two young men needing assistance after running out of fuel and water in the Jimna forest. Andrew was able to obtain accurate GPS coordinates from his caller, and then utilise Google Maps to direct the men out of the forest to awaiting responders. Andrew demonstrated the skills of a veteran EMD in confirming battery life, acquiring alternate phone contacts, gathering geographical coordinates and landmarks, and thoroughly documenting notes for the Maroochydore dispatcher. When it became clear battery life was becoming an issue, Andrew, under the guidance of his OCS, instructed them to hang up and he would call back every 20 minutes to update their status. Andrew and the Brisbane OCS arranged for screenshots of the patients’ location

from Google Maps to be sent to the Maroochydore OCS by email to further assist with locating them. An hour and half later the patients were found safe and well as a result of Andrew and his OCS’s out of the box thinking.

Call Lesson Whether it relates to location information, patient condition or situations involving potential risk, the importance of accurate documentation cannot be understated. Dispatchers, OCSs, CDSs, responding crews and even allied services rely on the information provided by our call takers in their decision-making processes.

Maroochydore

Mark Steven Maroochydore Operations Centre Supervisor Mark Steven got to see how the other side live when a patient presented at the Operations Centre complaining of shortness of breath. Within two minutes of her arrival the patient arrested. Mark and CDS Simon Hansson sprang into action performing CPR. With the aid of a defibrillator they were able to get ROSC on the patient who was subsequently transported to hospital.

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Lesson With the proximity of most Operations Centres to ambulance stations, there is always a chance that a patient may present at an Operations Centre needing assistance. Ensuring that all OpCen staff have currency in their clinical skills is essential. Just as practising the delivery of PAIs assists in confidently and competently instructing a caller, regular practice of clinical skills can assist in these unexpected events whether they be in the work context or in our home lives.

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Countdown on for 30 year celebrations Where were you 30 years ago on Monday, 1 July 1991? On this day the Queensland Ambulance Transport Brigade (QATB) transitioned to the new statewide ambulance service under the title of the Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS). This year, as we approach July 2021, the QAS is preparing to mark its 30 years of community service to Queenslanders and we are as proudly Queensland as our mighty Maroons reports QAS Heritage and History Manager Mick Davis.

From its beginnings in September 1892, the Queensland ambulance has always enjoyed a close connection with Queensland communities. As the service spread across the state in the early 1890s, each new QATB centre was established by the local community, administered and resourced by the local community and funded through local community sources that attracted a government subsidy. By 1991, there were 98 of these local administrating QATB Committees with a range of local QATB centres and sub-centres that were collectively overseen by the Queensland Ambulance Services

Board (QASB). The board of 12 members was formed in 1986 having been streamlined from a previous QATB State Council of 24 QATB committee representatives. The QASB moved quickly to modernise the service and the scope of clinical practice of the state’s ambulance officers. But the local QATB Committee administrative model made it difficult to achieve standardisation of ambulance service quality, equipment and clinical practices across the state. There was also concern at state governnment level that the value of an ambulance subscription varied from QATB centre to centre. Thus, the Queensland Government established the ‘Parliamentary Select Committee of Inquiry into Ambulance Services’ which reported to Government in December 1990 (The Elder Report). The major recommendation being to amalgamate these 98 Local QATB centres into a statewide service headed by a qualified ambulance officer as Commissioner and with seven geographic regions each headed by an Assistant Commissioner who was also a qualified ambulance officer.

The QATB had been moved from under Queensland Health in 1989 to be a division of the new Bureau of Emergency Services, which later became the Department of Emergency Services. Here ambulance shared equal status as a division with the Queensland Fire Service. Bureau Director Howard Baker oversaw the transition of QATB to QAS prior to and after 1 July 1991.

QAS achievements in the first 10 years The inaugural and newly appointed QAS Commissioner Noel Gillard, from the Australian Capital Territory Ambulance, set about quickly to establish a new QAS leadership team with Dr Gerry FitzGerald (Queensland) as Medical Director, John McPherson (Queensland) and Peter McMurtrie (Victoria) as the executive team with a blend of Queensland QATB Superintendents and senior interstate ambulance appointments as the Regional Assistant Commissioners and head of Ambulance Education. Other ex QATB Superintenents and senior QATB officers were appointed District Superintendents and Officers in Charge. The most significant initial change to Queensland ambulance was that ‘the closest ambulance would be dispatched to an emergency’. This was

Top to bottom

■ QAS 10 year Anniversary Cake.

■ QAS Heritage and History Manager Mick Davis.

Autumn 2021

■ The Ipswich Control Room.

QAS and LAC 30 year anniversary

difficult to achieve under the QATB Committee model as the expectation was that money raised locally for the QATB ambulance service would be applied locally. A number of QATB Committees were averse to their ambulance units attending cases outside of their designated area. A consequence of this change was a better opportunity for the new regional ambulance leaders to move the administrative focus from a resource focus to a patient focus. A new ‘QAS’ logo and insignia was also prepared to identiy the new statewide service.

Local Ambulance Committees The government of the day needed to ackowledge the experience and service of those community members serving on the QATB Committees, as their administrative powers had been removed, the resources and finance that they had worked so hard to provide had now been rolled into the statewide ambulance resources and finances. Into Part 4 of the new Ambulance Services Act 1991 was drafted an important provision that served to retain the close and enduring connection between the Queensland Ambulance and the Queensland community. It was the establishment of Local Ambulance Committees (LACs) with the key function of liaising between the

community that they represent and the QAS. Over the past 30 years, the support of LACs for the QAS has been outstanding.

Education, qualification, scope of clinical practice It had long been recognised and advocated that the credibity of an ambulance clinical practitioner was directly linked to both the available ambulance education and the attainable ambulance qualification. Improvement in this area of Queensland ambulance was also an important recommendation from the Elder Report to government. The Associate Diploma of Applied Science (Ambulance) had been prepared in time for the recruit intake of 1 July 1991 to be the first to undertake this course. Simultaneously, a statewide upgrade program was released for serving officers to upgrade their ambulance qualifications. A range of specialised courses established under the QASB since 1986 also were continued, enhanced and complimented. Among these were the QAS Traineeship program for younger recruits, a range of substance adminstration practices and rescue, driving and disaster management programs. By 1996, a Diploma of Applied Science (Ambulance) was ready for new recruits and an Intensive Care Paramedic Program (ICP) was commenced. The ICP program was a significant advancement that, for the first time in a decade, brought the Queensland ambulance into line with the other Australian and New Zealand ambulance services. By 2001 work had already commenced on a paramedic science degree qualification in universities for ambulance paramedics in Queensland.

Ambulance Operations As mentioned earlier, a key change in ambulance operations occurred from day one of the new QAS and that was that the closest ambulance could be dispatched to a case.

Significant change included the change to regional and district level administration. This change brought about a rationalisation of communications and dispatch facilities to facilitate a more efficient application of resources across a wider area. The 98 autonymous QATB Committees each operated their own local QATB ‘Control Room’.

Vehicles and Equipment Ambulance vehicle and equipment modernisation and standardisation was a feature of the many achievements in the first ten years. QATB Committees had procured a range of diverse ambulance vehicles and equipment with the result that a stretcher may not have been interchangeable when one ambulance transferred a patient to another.

The next two decades The first ten years set the foundation for QAS to become the first-class ambulance service that it is today. Rapid advancements in clinical standards, training, communications, equipment, vehicles and the use of drugs soon led to QAS becoming one of the nation’s leading ambulance services.

Top left to bottom left, clockwise

■ New QAS Commissioner Gillard with OIC and staff from Pittsworth Ambulance Station. ■ Ford modular white ambulance in 1991. ■ Training scenario in 1991.

■ QAS Brisbane Control Room 1992.

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QAS rises to the occasion with successful Fever Clinic deployments 26

The first part of 2021 proved to be an intense period of pandemic activity for the QAS with rising concern about community transmission of COVID-19 post-Christmas prompting the deployment of two QAS Fever Clinics, the mass evacuation of a quarantine hotel, and the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccination to frontline staff. Andrew Kos reports on how the QAS has responded to the ongoing pandemic. Left

■ Testing stations being prepped at the Noosa Fever Clinic. Right, top row

■ The Noosa Leisure Centre was transformed into a temporary fever clinic. Right, bottom row from left to right

■ Thousands came to get tested at the 24‑hour Eight Mile Plains clinic. ■ EMU were deployed to set-up the fever clinics.

The new year had just dawned and festive cheer was still in full swing when on 8 January a snap three-day lockdown was ordered for greater Brisbane.

“After the success of our Redbank Plains Clinic last year we were always prepared should we be called upon again, so everything was in place for a possible deployment,” Emma said.

Just days before, as holiday-makers travelled around the country, there was a rising concern about growing interstate clusters, prompting a call from Chief Health Officer Dr Jeannette Young for people to get tested.

“Working closely with the Noosa Shire Council and the Sunshine Coast HHS, we took over the Noosa Leisure Centre, transforming the indoor basketball courts into a temporary clinic.

With demand on testing clinics peaking, the QAS was called in to assist on the Sunshine Coast and Noosa became the location of the QAS’ second fever clinic, following the first at Redbank Plains in September 2020. Emergency Management Unit (EMU) Senior Operations Supervisor Emma McKenzie said within 18 hours of a request being made, officers were testing patients presenting to the Noosa clinic.

Autumn 2021

“There are a lot of pieces in the fever clinic puzzle to make it run smoothly and it’s a combined effort from many areas of the QAS including EMU, the Medical Director’s Office, the State Incident Management Room, ICT Services and the LASNs. “Whether it was swabbing, labelling, or administrative duties, staff enthusiastically threw themselves into whatever role they were called upon to undertake.”

COVID-19

“This was a slightly different deployment to Noosa in that the site was already operational, though we still needed to bring in our own ICT equipment and repurpose the set-up for our needs,” Emma said. “Within a little over five hours of the request, we were accepting patients and began a 15 day, 24-hour operation.” More than 130 operational and administrative staff were rostered across the Clinic’s operational period with support coming from all areas of the QAS.

“I was fortunate enough to meet some great staff that I wouldn’t usually have exposure to.” Kayla, a former paramedic, said it was rewarding to be part of something so unique. “To see how effective the team was at setting up the clinic so rapidly and watching the processes evolve as the days went on was really great to see,” Kayla said. “It feels good to be able to play a small role in the QAS response to a situation that is out of the ordinary and also to see some familiar faces from my time on-road and to meet new people from different areas of the service was great.”

Left, top row from left to right

■ More than 5,500 swabs were conducted at the Eight Mile Plains clinic. ■ Tests being prepared to be sent off for analysis. Left, bottom row

■ Admin staff ready to welcome patients at the Eight Mile Plains Fever Clinic.

Right

■ Kayla Markey and Temika Monti welcome patients at the Eight Mile Plains clinic.

During the operational period, more than 5,500 tests were performed at the Eight Mile Plains clinic by QAS officers.

Two of those included Human Resources Officer Temika Monti and QASEC Curriculum Development Writer Kayla Markey, who both volunteered for administrative roles which included checking patients in for their tests, labelling paperwork and assisting with whatever else was needed.

As this edition of Insight goes to print it is evident the pandemic is far from over, with greater-Brisbane placed into another three-day, pre-Easter lockdown following cases of community transmission stemming from Princess Alexandra Hospital clusters.

“It was a great opportunity to help the organisation as well as learn new skills and I also appreciated the chance to network with staff I wouldn’t usually deal with,” Temika said.

The QAS had to again adapt to the changing situation with increased safety measures, surveillance testing and PPE protocols put into place for officers dealing with known COVID‑19 patients.

“I loved the experience - helping the QAS assist the community was super rewarding, it was nice being customer facing and dealing with members of the public to see the difference we make.

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Photo: Adobe Stock / Dschwen

Just two days after the Noosa Clinic was stood‑up another request came in, this time from Metro South HHS to take over one of its clinics at Eight Mile Plains.

Grand Chancellor Evacuation With the QAS busy running the two Fever Clinics, another major incident occurred requiring QAS assistance. Queensland Health identified potential transmission of COVID-19 between quarantined guests at the Hotel Grand Chancellor leading to a decision to have all guests evacuated to another quarantine facility so an investigation could be undertaken.

COVID-19 Vaccination rollout The first QAS officers to be vaccinated for COVID-19 rolled up their sleeves on the Gold Coast in February. Since then it’s been encouraging to see a positive uptake from staff eligible for Phase 1a and 1b across the state getting vaccinated as it’s become available in their region. Staff are encouraged to get vaccinated and can contact their LASN for information on the options available. It’s important you complete a COVID Vaccination MACH Form following each dose. Clockwise, from top left

■ Torres and Cape officer Deidree Whap gets her vaccination. ■ North West LASN Manager Brad Hardy rolls up his sleeve. ■ Gold Coast LASN officers were the first to be vaccinated.

Autumn 2021

COVID-19

The evacuation took place on 13 January with the QAS pivotal in the successful and safe transfer of the 126 guests over a 12-hour period. Several dozen staff and vehicles were utilised, and our Infection Prevention Nurses and Supervisors were on site at both locations, playing an integral role in ensuring the safety of all staff, particularly in the donning, doffing and decontamination process of each transfer.

Commissioner Russell Bowles said the effort and professionalism of all staff involved ensured a safe, smooth and efficient relocation of the hotel guests, something acknowledged by our colleagues at Queensland Health and allied services. ■ News clippings of the evacuation from News Corp and Nine Entertainment Co.

29 ■ QAS representatives at the Premier’s Awards for Excellence.

Premier’s Awards for Excellence In February the QAS was named as a finalist in the Premier’s Awards for Excellence under the ‘Keep Queenslanders Healthy’ category. The QAS Demand Surge and COVID-19 Planning Team were recognised for their efforts in keeping all Queenslanders safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. Unfortunately we didn’t take out the final gong but were extremely humbled to have been considered for the award and nominated as a finalist.

The Premier’s Awards for Excellence recognises the exceptional work of individuals, initiatives and teams in driving and implementing change across the Queensland public sector and our state.

Autumn 2021

QAS publishes research looking to the skies for out of hospital cardiac arrest In a career first, Information Support, Research and Evaluation (ISRE) Unit Cardiac Research Fellow Dr Tan Doan looked to the skies for answers in a bid to better understand the exposure-response relationship between Queensland temperatures and out of hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). Below

Dr Doan said research shows that heatwaves can increase the risk of OHCA by up to 1.5 times. Right

ISRE Unit Cardiac Research Fellow Dr Tan Doan with CCP and 2019 KJM Patron’s Research Grant recipient Adam Rolley.

By pairing thirteen years of meteorological data with QAS cardiac arrest records from 2007‑2019, findings revealed that heatwaves can increase the risk of OHCA by up to 1.5 times. Dr Doan said the study highlighted the need for sector-wide preparedness and planning in the face of temperature extremes. “We know that environmental conditions affect the health of the population and— understanding how this impacts community demand for emergency health care and patient clinical presentations is vital,” Dr Doan said. “Living in a sub-tropical climate, it is incumbent upon us to plan for and adapt to the forces of nature, and in the case of OHCA, along with other acute cardiovascular diseases, mitigating temperature-related burden is especially important. “These conditions claim the lives of many thousands of Queenslanders each year. Our research will contribute to life-saving developments and we are very proud to be fronting this work.” As a specialist mathematical modeller with more than a decade’s experience, Dr Doan said the research was possible because of the combined diligence and dedication of paramedics and the ISRE Unit’s clinical coders ensuring the veracity of patient care records from beginning to end. “Our cardiac outcomes database is one of the most robust and reliable resources available to the prehospital research community and we thank everyone for their role in maintaining its standard. It is

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an invaluable resource to inform progressive updates to clinical and operational service delivery as new insights are uncovered.” QAS Medical Director, and study co-author, Dr Stephen Rashford ASM, said the work, published in Occupational and Environmental Medicine, built upon initial findings highlighted in the QAS OHCA Annual Report 2019. “While early days, this research—currently confined to cardiac arrest patients within Brisbane, to be expanded to other clinical presentations and across regional Queensland—will contribute to saving lives by laying vital groundwork for all ambulance jurisdictions to better understand the impact of the environment on service delivery,” Dr Rashford said. “Broadly, we know extreme heat and cold make the body work harder, putting stress and strain on its systems. Whether it’s heat or cold, our findings will be the catalyst for further research investigation and investment in this important clinical space, both here and abroad where the literature is sparse. Article details–Access via CKN: Doan TN, et al. Ambient temperatures, heatwaves and out‑of‑hospital cardiac arrest in Brisbane, Australia. Occup Environ Med 2021. doi:10.1136/oemed-2020-107018.

ISRE Report

Queensland’s extreme 2020 temperatures Hottest day

48.7 °C at Birdsville Airport on 5 Dec

Warmest days on average

35.0 °C at Julia Creek Airport

Coolest days on average

22.1 °C at Applethorpe

Coldest day

8.0 °C at Applethorpe on 14 Jul

Coldest night

-3.8 °C at Oakey Aero on 24 Aug | -3.8 °C at Applethorpe on 25 Aug -3.8 °C at Oakey Aero on 25 Aug | -3.8 °C at Applethorpe on 27 Sep

Coolest nights on average

9.6 °C at Applethorpe

Warmest nights on average

25.1 °C at Horn Island

Warmest night

33.3 °C at Cunnamulla Post Office on 10 Jan | 33.3 °C at Windorah Airport on 3 Dec

Warmest on average overall

28.3 °C at Normanton Airport

Coolest on average overall

15.9 °C at Applethorpe

Wettest overall

3289.7 mm at Tully Sugar Mill

Wettest day

427.0 mm at Bellenden Ker Top Stn on 20 May

Strongest wind gust

144 km/h at Dalby Airport on 2 Dec

Source: Bureau of Meteorology, 2020

Research heating up: Temperature stability of OHCA medication in focus In a QAS first, a multicentre in-field study using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) will explore the impact of temperature on selected cardiac medications carried by paramedics. Leading the research is Critical Care Paramedic and recipient of the 2019 KJM Patron’s Research Grant, Adam Rolley, along with Dr James Falconer and Associate Professor Kathryn Steadman from the UQ School of Pharmacy, Dr Esther Lau from the QUT School of Clinical Sciences, QAS Specialist Pharmacist Danielle Ironside and Advanced Care Paramedic Jordan Grice. “Using standard issue QAS drug kits, our team will log ambient and kit temperatures for six months, then check the concentration of the cardiac medications using specialised HPLC testing at monthly intervals,” Adam said. “Worldwide, HPLC is considered the gold standard in producing accurate and timely analysis of drug concentration and this study will be highly beneficial in understanding ‘real-world’ exposure outcomes for these vital medications. “Any paramedic knows the varied conditions our kits can get exposed to at scene or during our travels—it doesn’t have to be a

particularly hot day for us to feel the impacts in Queensland, which is why our study site selection has a broad focus.” Adam commended the behind the scenes support provided by many paramedics across the state. “I extend my heartfelt thanks to my operational peers and their managers in the North West, Townsville, Metro North and West Moreton LASNs, and KJM Foundation. Their positivity from ‘proposal to project realisation’ has been overwhelming— together, everyone’s help has seen this vital research green‑lit.”

Right

Adam is leading a team exploring the impact of temperature on selected cardiac medications carried by paramedics.

Autumn 2021

A feat of fate for Team Fantastic You never know what stories a spring clean of the house will uncover. For Beenleigh 2IC Trevor Wyeth, it was the realisation that two of his close QAS colleagues assisted his wife Tamara as a 16-year-old when she suffered a nasty fall from a horse reports Matt Stirling. Miraculously, given her injuries, Tamara made her way to a nearby shed and managed to call her Mum.

It was a 12-year-old photo of Tamara lying in hospital that left Trevor stumped when he recognised the two fresh-faced paramedics flanking the bed. ACP Wade Singleton and Mount Gravatt OIC Phil Campbell have formed a friendship with Trevor during their careers working within the Metro South LASN. Unbeknownst to Trevor, the pair also played a role in one of the most pivotal moments of his wife Tamara’s life.

In January 2009, a teenage Tamara was riding on the family property in Richlands when she was thrown from her horse. “I remember riding my horse when she decided to dismount me. Next minute I’m on the ground trying to get some help but no one was coming,” Tamara said.

After being bundled into a car to head back up the hill to the house, Tamara’s family realised she was in a bad way and called for an ambulance. The mechanism of Tamara’s fall meant Wade and Phil, then a firstyear student, were careful to play everything by the book. “Even though Tamara had been moved into the car, we still went with full spinal immobilisation,” Wade said. “It went smoothly once we got Tamara out of the vehicle—that was a hassle.” Tamara would spend four days in the Intensive Care Unit of the former Mater Children’s Hospital recovering from fractures to her ribs, scapula, clavicle, a small chip in her spine, a pneumothorax, and a lacerated spleen.

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Now working as an orthopaedic nurse at Princess Alexandra Hospital, Tamara reflects on the incident and recovery as the start of her interest in health care. “Definitely this whole incident created who I am as far as my career,” Tamara said. “I now understand how frustrating it would have been for these poor guys trying to get me out of the car to maintain my C-spine. I just wanted to go to bed.” The next day Wade and Phil, or ‘Team Fantastic’, as many communications operators from that period will remember them, went to visit Tamara in the hospital and the iconic snap was taken.

Horse fall reunion

A few weeks after she fell from the horse, an appreciative Tamara and her Mum dropped by the station to give Wade and Phil a copy of the photo, as well as some baked goods and engraved keyrings. The paramedics copy of the photo then remained on the wall of Durack Station for many years without anyone realising Trevor’s connection until Trevor recently found his wife’s version. “I was just cleaning at home and found the photo and was like ‘I know them—that’s Phil and Wade,” Trevor said. “I told Tamara and she just said, ‘tell them I’m sorry for hopping in the car’.” Interestingly, Trevor and Tamara were high school sweethearts

and had been dating for more than a year when the fall occurred. Wade said he is still able to recall the incident word-for-word ‘because it was such a good outcome, because it was potentially so bad and because it was done right’. “It’s a job that’s always stuck and now we find out Tamara’s in the family,” he said. When Trevor and Tamara caught up with Wade and Phil for a photo recently, Phil was even able to bring along the engraved keyring given to him 12 years ago. Tamara said the careful actions of the responding paramedics and the precautions undertaken helped her recovery.

“Who knows if they didn’t stick to the book. I may have spent extra weeks in hospital or had my spleen removed,” she said. “It’s unique that my husband now knows the guys who saved me and goes mountain-bike riding with them. “I’m glad I got Team Fantastic.”

Opposite, left

Flashback: Phil and Wade with then 16-yearold Tamara after she was transported to hospital. Opposite, right

A picture of one of the engraved keyrings. Background

Wade Singleton (left) and Phil Campbell (right) with Tamara and Trevor Wyeth.

Autumn 2021

Priority One Navigating difficult workplace conversations– how to manage emotions and stay grounded Difficult conversations are a normal part of life and occur across a lifespan, including throughout a career reports Priority One North Coast Regional Staff Counsellor Narelle Raeburn.

Above

Priority One North Coast Regional Staff Counsellor Narelle Raeburn.

Too frequently we avoid talking about something that is affecting us, be it family, work, relationships or another situation which is important, and we often find reasons– or excuses–to avoid the conversation. These include: ‘I don’t want to hurt their feelings’, ‘now is not the time’, ‘everyone makes mistakes sometimes’, ‘I don’t have time’, ‘it will resolve, give it time’. Be mindful if you hear yourself making these statements, that the research suggests that having the conversation as early as the concerns arise and addressing the very issue that is making us feel uncomfortable is the preferred approach as this provides opportunity for a resolution. Without addressing the unresolved issue, referred to as a ‘rupture’, a ‘repair’ cannot occur. It can manifest itself in maladaptive coping strategies, toxic interactions and unhealthy relationships.

increase confidence and morale and reduce absenteeism and employer turnover. When asked to engage in a difficult conversation ensure you have the ‘tools’ you need to attend.

This article touches on why difficult conversations are so important and what we can do to prepare for them. It also provides strategies for managing our emotions, whilst remaining grounded and representing ourselves professionally.

• What is important to me moving forward?

Be Prepared: Ensure you are prepared by gathering all the relevant information required for you to attend and write some notes or bullet points about what is important for you to have addressed. Decide if you would like to take a support person, and what their role in the meeting will be. When preparing, it is helpful for you to think about these questions: • Why is it important for me to have this conversation? • What questions would I like answered? • What would l like to get out of the conversation? • Are my expectations realistic? • What areas can I advocate/negotiate?

When difficult issues arise, there are conflicting opinions about how best to manage the situation. The outcome may cause distress for those involved. For some people, difficult conversations occur as a result of a grievance or complaint. The reason difficult conversations are unsettling is because too frequently the behaviour, the conflict or the resulting action is tabled without acknowledging the underlying emotion attached by that outcome.

Where possible and practical, have the conversation face-to-face and ensure time is dedicated as not to be interrupted and take minutes to ensure that there is a record of the conversation and agreed outcomes documented. Ask questions for clarification and ensure that you understand what is being communicated and have an opportunity to state your perspective. Ask how long the meeting will go for and consider taking a break half-way to re-employ some of the strategies suggested to remain in your body and engage the cognitive part of your brain.

Difficult conversations in the workplace aim to resolve conflicts efficiently and effectively to support workplace relationships and address or resolve problems before they have a significant impact or disrupt productivity or performance. This in turn aims to improve staff engagement,

Manage your emotions: Tense conversations evoke intense emotions. Difficult conversations can feel threatening, which sets off ‘shark music’ in your brain, a reaction whereby, your amygdala is hijacked causing your prefrontal cortex to shut down

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Priority One

and the body’s reaction is to trigger the sympathetic nervous system into a fight or fright response. This is completely normal, however, instantaneously we need to calm our inner ‘shark music’ to re-engage our rational and logical thinking brain to be able to attend to and engage in the imminent discussion. Luckily, it is possible to interrupt this physical response and manage your emotions by tuning into your body which will help ground you.

First, breathe: Simple techniques such as deep, slow breathing opens your lungs allowing extra oxygen to be pumped around your body to stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system and trigger a calming response. This will lower your heart rate and increase oxygen throughout your body and importantly your brain. When taking a few deep breaths, notice the physical sensation of air coming in and out of your lungs. Feel it pass through your nostrils or down the back of your airway and deep into your bronchioles. This will take your attention to the internal state of your body and off the physical (external) space of the room, our physical reactions assist us to keep focussed, remain calm and respond intentionality and concisely. Mindfulness experts suggest counting your breath—in for the count of three, hold for the count of three and out for the count of three. In one-two-three, hold one-two-three and out onetwo-three (repeat several times).

Next focus on your body: Remaining physically still in your body can result in the intense internal emotions building up rather than dissolving. If seated at a table, you may be hesitant to stand up. Instead, try saying, ‘I need to stretch a little, do you mind if I stand or walk around?’ If that still doesn’t feel comfortable, you can do some small physical exercises in your chair, such as placing your fingers together, turning them inside out away from you and stretching your arms out in front of you. Try crossing your arms across your body and stretching from your shoulders or placing your feet firmly on the ground and noticing what the floor feels like on the bottom of your shoes. This technique is referred to as ‘anchoring’. It again works on the premise of taking you from your emotional state back to your physical state–keeping you present in the ‘physical’ and maintaining your ability to engage your rational and logical brain.

Acknowledge and label your feelings:

will have commenced prior to the meeting. However, it is also important to notice emotions as they arise in the meeting. Unfortunately, breathing and being present in the room will not eliminate the emotions that arise but you can acknowledge them and move forward. When sensing a thought or an emotion, a useful tactic is to pay attention to the thought/feeling, and simply name them. For example, ‘I can’t believe he’s saying that happened, he’s lying, that makes me so angry’. Recall and write down disbelief and anger. Labelling your emotions allows you to see your thoughts and feelings for what they are–transient sources of data that may or may not prove helpful. By naming them, you also put space between yourself and the emotion. This space makes it easier to let them go–and not bury them or let them explode.

What is your mantra? Often a phrase or a piece of advice you have learnt to settle yourself in the past can assist when highly emotional situations arise. What is your mantra? ‘This will pass’, ‘Get through this’, ‘Always moving forward’, ‘Positive steps, right direction’…Whatever your mantra is, call on it when you notice the psychological response in your body change meaning when your amygdala is hijacked again. Repeat your mantra, reminding yourself that you can and will get through this task at hand. Take a break: This approach is often underused. If the meeting lasts longer than 20 to 30 minutes, schedule in a break before the meeting. The more time you give yourself to process your thoughts and emotions, the less intense they are likely to be, and the easier it is to let them go. If the meeting is getting too difficult to stay in the room, excuse yourself for a moment–go to the toilet, get a glass of water. Try saying something like, ‘I’m sorry to interrupt you, but I need to get a quick tea, can I get anyone else something whilst I am up?’ Be mindful, that you are most likely not the only one who is upset. The other person is likely to express anger or frustration too. While you may want to give them the above advice, no one wants to be told they need to breathe more deeply or take a break. So, you may be in a situation where you just need to let the other person vent. That is usually easier said than done though. Represent yourself well. Always be professional, respectful and courteous. Remember to take good care of you.

Where do I find help? 24-hour telephone counselling  1800 805 980 QAS Priority One Director  0419 707 397 QAS Staff Counsellors  0408 191 215 or 0417 079 679 or 0409 056 983 QAS Priority One State Office  3635 3333 LGBTIQ+ support service  3830 5888 Chaplaincy service  0 439 788 485 or Office 3835 9923 Local Priority One Peer Support Officers or Counsellors  See list in each QAS Station or on QASPortal

35 Priority One address T errace Office Park, Ground Floor, South Tower, 527 Gregory Terrace, Fortitude Valley.

References: Harvard Business Review: https://hbr. org/2017/12/how-tocontrol-your-emotionsduring-a-difficultconversation# Managing Difficult Conversations in the Workplace: Fair work Ombudsmen.

Hopefully, processing emotions that have arisen as a result of the difficult conversation

Autumn 2021

New cohort of students awarded QAS School Based Scholarship Ten new secondary school students have officially been welcomed into the QAS School Based Scholarship Program in 2021. Top

Central Queensland LASN Acting Chief Superintendent Warren Kellett with Rockhampton Girls Grammar School student Kaylah Frazer and paramedic and Indigenous Liaison Officer Angela Beatson. Middle

St George State High School student Ellsy Rudd was presented with her award by Acting Clinical Support Officer Benjamin Glasby, Acting Superintendent Nathan Daley and St George OIC Patrick Stanton. Bottom

Ambrose Treacy College dancers at the QATSIF ceremony at the Australian Catholic University.

Opposite top

Assistant Commissioner Peter Warrener, QAS Cultural Capability Coordinator Trish Murray and paramedic and Indigenous Liaison Officer Armahn Kennedy attended the Australian Catholic University ceremony. Opposite bottom

Imogen Farrawell, Imogen Harvey and Ty Martens were awarded their certificates by Assistant Commissioner Peter Warrener at a ceremony at Australian Catholic University.

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QAS School Based Scholarship

The recipients were presented with their certificates at an official ceremony in Brisbane and at school events during February and March. Imogen Farrawell and Imogen Harvey from Mountain Creek State High School and Ty Martens from Sandgate District State High School were presented with their certificates by Assistant Commissioner Peter Warrener at an official Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Foundation (QATSIF) ceremony at the Australian Catholic University at Banyo on 26 February.

The QAS School Based Scholarship, which is coordinated through QATSIF, was introduced in 2020 and provides Grade 11 and 12 Indigenous students support to assist with completing school and transitioning to work and/ or university. Up to ten QAS School Based Scholarships are awarded per year across Queensland and recipients are provided with financial support and

access to a range of mentoring and career coaching. The QAS, in partnership with QATSIF, is proud to offer this scholarship and we look forward to hearing about the progress of all of our new recipients as they pursue their dreams. Pictured are recipients at some of the presentations, including the ceremony at Australian Catholic University.

The remaining recipients, Ellsy Rudd from St George State High School, Kaylah Frazer from Rockhampton Girls Grammar School, Keara Woods from Noosa District State High School, Wyatt Hughes from Kelvin Grove State College, Riley Wilson from Charleville State High School, Ruby Thompson from Helensvale State High School and Brendyn Mann from Townsville State High School were presented with their certificates by QAS representatives at their schools.

Autumn 2021

New High Acuity Response Unit clinicians hit the road following orientation Our latest High Acuity Response Unit (HARU) clinicians–Critical Care Paramedics Drew Allen and Jan Muhlenberg and Doctors Ben Aston and Claire Bertenshaw are now on road supporting QAS paramedics already providing high level clinical assessment and management for some of our most critical patients. Above

■ QAS Medical Director Dr Stephen Rashford, new HARU clinicians Jan Muhlenberg, Dr Ben Aston, Drew Allen and Dr Claire Bertenshaw and Clinical Support Officer Brett Rogers.

These dedicated clinicians have completed their HARU orientation, which included presentations, simulations, equipment familiarisation and additional clinical skills, and are putting their expertise in to practice. QAS Medical Director Dr Stephen Rashford said that all four clinicians are dedicated registered health-care professionals who were selected for the HARU team because of their demonstrated capacity to rapidly acquire and assimilate new

Autumn 2021

knowledge. Their abilities to work as part of a team to deliver time critical patient care is fundamental, as well as providing real time decision support and guidance to paramedics statewide through the QAS Clinical Consultation and Advice Line, and the Clinical Hub. “They are all unique individuals who have a common goal–a desire to provide the highest level of patient care,” Dr Rashford said.

High Acuity Response Unit Report

CASE

A patient in their 20s called the Queensland Police Service (QPS) threatening self harm. QAS Medical Director Dr Stephen Rashford Upon QPS arrival, the patient was found barricaded in a shower. As the QPS officers made their way in, the patient approached them with a knife. These officers used nonlethal force by way of a taser, followed by physical restraint. Upon QAS paramedic arrival, the patient was found to be highly agitated, with extensive blood loss on scene. A tourniquet was placed on the left proximal arm. Multiple incisional wounds to both arms and the chest were noted (twenty-five wounds to the left of sternum, three to the right of sternum, multiple arm wounds). The patient became progressively more lethargic, with no sedation needed by the attending crews. The patient was provided appropriate baseline cares, including supplemental oxygen, intravenous access and minimal crystalloid infusion. HARU met the crew enroute to the major trauma service hospital. At this time the patient’s condition was: • A–patent, self-maintained • B–RR 28/minute SpO2 100% on 15l/min oxygen • C–HR 110 bpm, weak peripheral pulses with delayed capillary return (peripheral circulatory failure) • Overall, the patient was pale and diaphoretic. • The tourniquet was loosened, and the wound dressed with a compressive bandage. • FAST (ultrasound): negative for intraperitoneal blood, no pericardial effusion, views of left thorax could not exclude haemothorax.

Overall Assessment and Plan: Haemorrhagic shock with multiple potential blood loss sites–external blood loss in shower and on the ground or a haemothorax. Prenotification call to the major trauma service prior to departure (short distance). One unit of packed red blood cells, 1g of TXA; patient responded well to the blood transfusion.

At the Emergency Department: Highly agitated with SBP 120 mmHg. Emergently ventilated, with significant hypotension post induction. Small left pneumothorax present. Haemodynamics normalised after three units of packed red blood cells and one unit of cryoprecipitate.

Discussion

Complex cases need careful thought at all phases of care to synthesise information and identify best clinical course. It can be difficult to estimate external blood loss. This patient had lost considerable blood on scene. The left hemithorax ultrasound view was difficult. Clinicians should balance the use of technology/investigations with value of clinical evaluation–both pre and in-hospital. Don’t forget your clinical examination–look, feel and then listen. This patient needed volume resuscitation prior to mechanical ventilation, due to the blood loss amplifying the reduction in preload experienced with positive pressure ventilation. Severe agitation and blood loss are a very difficult combination to address. All patients with severe agitation and disturbed vital signs should be treated as critically ill, with early monitoring instituted especially if sedation is considered. Ensure a dedicated clinician manages the airway and overall management.

Autumn 2021

QAS flu program set to get underway It is that time of year again. Following a very successful Winter Strategy in 2020, with approximately 88 per cent of the QAS workforce vaccinated against influenza (98 per cent of operational staff), the Winter Strategy 2021 is hoping to achieve similar results reports QAS Specialist Pharmacist Natalie Schutt. Influenza season is one of the busiest periods for QAS and an effective staff immunisation strategy is important to ensure staff have timely access to the influenza vaccination. This year, the QAS is offering four convenient and free options for staff to obtain their influenza vaccination.

Where can I get my influenza vaccination? The following options will be available to all QAS staff: 1. QAS Nurse Immuniser/Paramedic led influenza vaccination program 2. Pharmacy Guild of Australia–Community Pharmacy program Above

QAS Specialist Pharmacist Natalie Schutt

3. General Practitioner–reimbursement program 4. Hospital and Health Services Clinics.

QAS Paramedic-Nurse Immuniser/ Paramedic influenza vaccination program – Available TBC

Pharmacy Guild of Australia – Community Pharmacy Program – Available from 1 April to 31 July 2021

The QAS Paramedic-Nurse/Paramedic Immuniser Program will be available in nominated LASNs. These clinics are mobile and will be available on the ramp of your local hospital or at an ambulance station. This means you can obtain your vaccination while on duty. Keep an eye out for the immunisation team in the following locations:

The QAS has an arrangement with Community Pharmacies who are affiliated with the Pharmacy Guild of Australia to provide FREE vaccinations to QAS staff.

1. Townsville

7. Ipswich

2. Mackay

8. Logan

3. Rockhampton

9. Toowoomba

4. Bundaberg

10. Gold Coast

5. Sunshine Coast 11. Cairns 6. Brisbane

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Local General Practitioner – subject to your GPs availability All QAS employees may attend their local GP to receive their influenza vaccination and the QAS will reimburse the employee (up to $30) for the vaccination cost.

Hospital and Health Services Clinics Some LASNs have established arrangements with their HHS for QAS staff to receive the influenza vaccination at the local hospital.

QAS Influenza Program

Q Frequently A asked influenza vaccination questions What is Influenza? Influenza is a highly contagious viral infection of the respiratory tract and contributes to serious morbidity and mortality across all age groups and demographics in the community.1

What are the side-effects of the influenza vaccine? Common side effects of the influenza vaccine include: • pain, redness or swelling at injection site (usually only lasts for one to two days) • fever, tiredness and/or muscle aches and pains.6 Some people may confuse these side effects as the early stages of the flu. However, this is a sign that the vaccination has triggered an immune response, which is what the vaccination is designed to do. These side effects may start within a few hours of receiving the vaccination and may last up to two days.7

Will getting the influenza vaccine prevent me from getting COVID-19?

How is the influenza virus transmitted? The influenza virus is transmitted from person to person through droplets containing the virus (coughing or sneezing) or direct contact with respiratory secretions.2 This is why it is important for you to wear appropriate PPE, wash your hands regularly and cover your mouth when you sneeze or cough.

No. However, influenza can lower a person’s immunity and make them more susceptible to other illnesses, such as COVID-19. The influenza vaccine will assist with reducing the severity and spread of the flu, which will help protect those around you from simultaneously contracting influenza and other illnesses.8

Why should I get the influenza vaccine? Take home message to protect yourself, your family and your patients.

The influenza vaccine is the most common vaccinepreventable disease in Australia. While the vaccine does not offer 100 per cent protection against the flu, it does: • reduce the severity of symptoms if you do catch the flu and most importantly • helps protect those around you.3 Paramedics play an important role in providing a rapid prehospital emergency response, an essential healthcare service to the community and transporting critically unwell patients. Help protect yourself and your vulnerable patients from contracting the influenza virus by getting vaccinated.

Why is it important as a healthcare worker to be vaccinated against Influenza? Healthcare workers are often exposed to the influenza virus during the course of their work, which may contribute to the rates of infection during the influenza season. Influenza is a vaccine-preventable disease and Queensland Health (QHealth) recommends that healthcare workers receive the annual influenza vaccine due to their proximity to vulnerable people.4

Can I catch the flu from the influenza vaccination? No. The influenza vaccine cannot give you the flu as there is no live virus in the vaccine.5

• Get your annual influenza vaccination • Wear your PPE (Standard and Droplet precautions) • Regularly wash your hands thoroughly or use an alcohol‑based hand sanitiser • Cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough AND wash your hands • If you are unwell, please STAY HOME.

Can I have both my Influenza vaccination and COVID-19 vaccination? Yes, but it is recommended that you have the vaccinations two weeks apart.

References https://www.ncirs.org.au/sites/default/files/2020-04/ Influenza-FAQs_7%20April%202020_Final.pdf

1,7,8

https://immunisationhandbook.health.gov.au/vaccinepreventable-diseases/influenza-flu

2,3,5

https://www.health.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_ file/0029/444872/vaccination-of-healthcare-workers.pdf 4

Product information

Autumn 2021

Photo: Adobe Stock / Dschwen

• reduce your risk of getting the flu

Busy border town celebrates 100 years of ambulance services Hundreds of people took the opportunity to attend an event at Goondiwindi Station in March to celebrate 100 years of ambulance services in the border town. The popular event was organised by staff and volunteers and featured old memorabilia and historical vehicles, plus station tours and sausage sizzles. Goondiwindi’s rich history stems back to March 1921 when the Queensland Ambulance Transport Brigade (QATB) Centre was founded in the township. The first Superintendent was Mr C.H.N. Brewster who operated the service from rented premises with a Ford ambulance vehicle. The Provisional QATB committee was led by Mr E.G. Marsh as Chairman. During the period 1921-1922 the committee purchased a plot of ground in a convenient part of town as a site to build ambulance premises when funds permitted.

Above, in white band

QATB Centre Goondiwindi circa 1920s. Above, clockwise from top left

Herb Brewster with vehicle circa late 1920s. QAS 100 year anniversary cake. Hundreds of people attended Goondiwindi’s celebratory event. Opposite, clockwise from top left

Current Goondiwindi Station staff with Southern Downs MP James Lister and

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the Honourable Councillor Lawrence Springborg, AM, Goondiwindi Mayor. Former officers were among the many who turned out to celebrate Goondiwindi’s centenary. Former Goondiwindi Station OIC Derrick Scheuer, QAS Heritage and History Manager Mick Davis, Goondiwindi Mayor Lawrence Springborg and former Goondiwindi Station OIC Stephen Johns. The event provided an opportunity to present a number of awards.

Goondiwindi Centenary

At the same time, permission was obtained from the Railway Department to run a rail ambulance car to operate between Dirranbandi and Inglewood. Although an order was placed in 1922, the completed rail unit was not delivered until mid-1923. This rail car was built by Ruddle Engineering of Brisbane and the total cost was £252,10s. In its first year of operation, it travelled 2,740 miles. In 1922 Honorary Centres were opened at Talwood (Honorary Bearer J.R. McSweeney) and Kurrumbul (Honorary Bearer P.D. Roney). In 1924, under the terms of the Hospital Act, the Goondiwindi Hospital Board exercised its power to take over the control of the local ambulance service. The Hospital Board conducted the service until 1953. On 22 January 1953, representatives of the Goondiwindi Chamber of Commerce met with the Goondiwindi Hospital Board which had expressed its willingness to hand over the control of the Hospital Ambulance to the QATB. Subsequently a public meeting was convened on 4 February 1953 with the resulting resolution: ‘That this meeting unanimously agrees that the State Executive of the QATB be requested to proceed with the establishment of an ambulance centre in Goondiwindi to serve the interests of transport and first aid to residents’.

The centre was gazetted on 2 April 1953. Mr V.E. Medland Superintendent QATB Hughenden Centre was appointed Superintendent. He resigned on 16 March 1960 and Superintendent H.J. (Jack) Trenaman of the Mount Larcom Centre was appointed to the position. At the time of Superintendent Trenaman’s appointment, the committee considered that it would be uneconomical to carry out further alterations or major repairs on the brigade building and decided that in the near future it should replace the building with new premises which would be more suitable for brigade operations. During 1961-1962, the existing ambulance property was sold to the Shell Company of Australia for £5,000 and a site suitable for ambulance premises in Marshall Street was purchased for £500. Plans were prepared for the construction of a new centre building and Superintendent’s residence. Fast forward to 2021 and Goondiwindi remains a busy area to service today.

Autumn 2021

THANK YOU :) Everyone has different levels of success. For me, success can never be achieved unless you have the desire to Commissioner’s thanks initiate it. The amazing work and commitment from staff It is pleasing to see we that continuously results in that appreciation letters we receive commenced 2021 in the same fromway members the public, makes aware of ed thanks a belat that weoffinished 2020, with me constantly Hi, what accomplishments we have made as an organisation. the community continuing to (message sent recognise the positive attitude

nuary 2021)

17 Ja andhas care thatan QAS officers This month seen influx of thank you letters, with two ambos to the display to the 304 letters received thiscommunity. year to date and 609 letters and and Ryan Best (Riley emails of thanks sent to staffby members. This is recognised the 735 appreciations received

Hansen), who picked

between December 2020 I cannot thank1you enough for allto your hard work. me up off the road in

Kristie, Morningside

QAS Commissioner (Julie Ricardo) for her efficiency and ability to

Hi there. I just wanted to say a huge thank you to James (Hoy) and Tiffany (Parkinson) who rushed me to hospital when a container of 3D print resin exploded on my face on 3 February. I have I want to send a quick thank you to the PTSD and anxiety and was low key freaking out paramedics (Chantal Greaney and Melissa because I couldn’t see. They didn’t leave my Dajic) who assessed my son and took him side until I was in the care of the Gold Coast to hospital on Wednesday night (July 12). It University Hospital, constantly reassuring me was the first time I have ever had to call the and talking to me to keep me level. I can’t thank ambulance and I was quite nervous in doing what they did for me. Please let them enough for so – worried I was overreacting and wasting the lose my eyesight either, I was I didn’t them know paramedics time. The two ladies who Thank attended you for all you do. lucky. really

reassure us that help was on the way and clear

our home were so calm and reassuring. They

instructions in the meantime. Tammy (Olsson)

quickly assessed my son and took us to Lady

28 February 2021. During this I have sent 264 emails Russelltime Bowles ASM to officers recognising their QAS Commissioner outstanding service, with many more to follow as we continue through 2021.

Brightwater (Mountain Creek) on 3 December 2020 after I had a bicycle accident. I fractured my sacrum I look forward to the rest of and third vertebrae. year thank Ithe would likeand to take theyou timefor to express our thanks Excellent job guys!

your continued commitment to various QAS officers for their attendance and consideration shown to and assistance at our unplanned home birth the community.

Garry, Buderim

on 4/9/2017. I commend Triple Zero officer asm Russell Bowlesthe

arrived on scene approximately 5 minutes following the birth of our son Woody and I would like to commend her professionalism, calm in the situation and ability to treat me as a fellow being rather than just a patient. She was caring,

I would just like to pass on a big thank you to Robin (Glover), Adam (Peters) and university student Erika (Gage) who attended my Dad this afternoon (12 Febru ary) after a fallyouinto the garden. They were all really lovely, Just want to say a big thank the ladies put u p with (Corinne Wilkes, Kate Olive and Candice Dad’s ‘Dad Jokes’, and we all had a good chat Boileau) that came to myway houseto thisthe morning on the hospital, which definitely helps with (July 19) for my little girl the dispatch guy keepi ngand every one’s stress levels down! I think Erika will be (Jamaine Prieditis) who helped me stay very an amaz ing paramedic when she graduates! Thank you! calm. They do an amazing job and I really Kat,being Eaton s Hill appreciated them so fantastic.

compassionate and efficient. I appreciate Tammy arranging for our transfer through to Hervey Bay Hospital. I believe Arto (Hirsimaki) and another officer (Andrew Rach) assisted with my transfer

Joshua, Runaway Bay

Cilento, all the while distracting my son with

Jack (Hespe) Benand thankvideos I wish to Wiggles calming a and nervous and (Roberts) who assessed and episode at Emerald Lakes, her following June, Mum, treated our panicked mum. Thank you for such excellent transported morning. Carrara this service and care!!! IThey don't believe this service her to Pindara Hospital observation in the cardiac under night spending where she getsisthe recognition itthe deserves for all the work to your service. They credit a are gentlemen two ward. Those your paramedics do. were so professional and caring. We knew Mum was in great care. thank you for the job that you do QAS. all and Point to you Wellington Regards Amanda, Karen, Tenterfield NSW and Julie, Worongary (24 Feb)

from Hunters Hut through to Hervey Bay and I found Arto to be very attentive to my needs at this time considering I was having much difficulty. I hope our message can reach the individual officers involved. Thank you to QAS for the important work you do I know we certainly needed the service on this day! Our little man Woody is doing great settling in at home with his older sister Anna, feeding and sleeping well. Darren and Kate, Lakeside

36 QAS Insight

SPRING 2017

QAS_Insight_Magazine_SPRING_2017_DRAFT3.indd 36

Above

Baby Amora and Erin holding her newborn child Amora.

Just want to giveon a shout out pics to the (left) LARU officer Hi, I just wanted to pass these to Carolyn (Sharp) and Daniel who attended my home on Monday (August (Hirsimaki). On 2 January this year I was driving my labouring daughter Erin 21). His name was Steve (Kliese) and we are and her partner Pierre to Sunshine Coast University Hospital (SCUH). I had a Ipswich area. He was prompt, caring, funny feeling inwethemight not make it even though labour had only taken an hour compassionate, empathetic, funny and the list and a half so goes far.on. I’mHe ahadparamedic student, me reassuredine within minutes. so I got some things prepared just in case, and was ready to Triple (OOO). On Nicklin Way, Warana, Erin If my thanks couldcall be passed to hisZero OIC that started pushing. pulled over and called Triple Zero (OOO). I could see bub’s would We be appreciated. head still in the intact amniotic sac. My training (which is not much yet for Des, Silkstone childbirth) kicked in, and I reassured my daughter until QAS arrived. Carolyn and Daniel arrived and completed the trip to SCUH hot. Amora was born on the QAS stretcher on the way into the birthing suite. She was 4.010kg and healthy. I coincidentally ran into Carolyn and Daniel at a servo two days later so was able to thank them personally, but I thought they’d like to see these pics. I would 11/10/17 8:43 pm also like to thank the EMD (Kathleen Airey) who was amazing and so calm. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. QAS does a wonderful job and we are so thankful for your care, and for Daniel and Carolyn and Kathleen. I’ve done clinical placement twice now with QAS, I’ve seen some sad cases. I never thought in a million years I would need QAS for my own family. It was so wonderful that this little girl came in a hurry and we got to share such a positive experience. Jen, Alexandra Headland

Autumn 2021

Department title / section Thank / topic you

Right, top and bottom

Jenny and Urs Birrer with paramedics Beau Thomas, Jamie Lamont, Jamie MacPherson and Catherine Hassall at Beenleigh Ambulance Station in January 2020. Urs Birrer with paramedics Beau Thomas, Jamie Lamont, Jamie MacPherson and Catherine Hassall.

Urs Birrer suffered a traumatic brain injury, a punctured lung, multiple broken ribs and a fractured collarbone in March 2019 when he came off his mountain bike on a secluded track at the Daisy Hill Conservation Park. In January 2020, Urs, who spent four months in the Princess Alexandra Hospital, reunited with four of the paramedics who attended his case–Jamie Lamont, Jamie MacPherson, Madeline Hillas and Beau Thomas–at Beenleigh Ambulance Station. Joseph Johnston and Catherine Hassall also attended the case. Urs is still on the road to recovery and recently contacted Beenleigh OIC Chris Rendall-Day to say he has started a blog to help other patients and their families on the same journey. He also expressed how two years on, he still thinks about his teal angels daily.

Getting in touch Messages collated on these pages are derived from a range of QAS contact points, including: via Facebook facebook.com/qldambulanceservice by email QAS.Media@ambulance.qld.gov.au

The following excerpts have been reproduced with permission from Urs.

by post I still make small steps in my recovery and QAS Media Unit, GPO Box 1425 think about you guys at least once every day. I am so thankful for what the Brisbane QLD 4001 paramedics did when they picked me up. Honestly, I wouldn’t be where I am now without their first treatment and response. Today is my second-year anniversary (10 March) and I have started a blog about my recovery. We recently went to the site where I came off the bike…Must have been a challenge itself to get me out of A HUGE thankyou to the amb o team there…Say hello to everybody from me. (Gabrielle Kropp, Rachael Butl er and university student Callum Mar Cheers, Urs kie), who attended my Mum Edith this Urs plans to mention the QAS in an upcoming post. evening (12 January). So very kind and You can view his blog by clicking on www.never-give-up.life caring on top of their expertise and professi onalism in these very strange days. Full marks to Gabby and crew. They’re tops. We are very Tara and rs) grateful. (Roge d would just like to sincerely thank Davi San dra , Kep erra rday yeste house ended up coming to our

I (Williams-Hanna) who sed onto (10 January) after my Father had a seizure and collap ciated our driveway. Your help and compassion was truly appre er. and definitely didn’t go unnoticed by myself and my Moth ative comb bit a being was Dad when You two were amazing even get to g tryin and ning happe was and a bit confused with what at Gold him down our steep driveway. He has since spent a night today him saw logist Coast University Hospital where a neuro sy, so it is (11 January) and he has since been diagnosed with epilep . definitely going to be an interesting journey ahead Jarad, Parkwood

A huge ‘thank you’ to Samuel (Rogers) who came to our home last Friday night (12 February) when my Mother dislocated her knee. He was caring and patient. She was in a lot of pain and he supported her through that and got her onto a stretcher and safely to Beaudesert Hospital. We appreciate him and all he did. With thanks.

In the early hours of this morning (4 February) we called Triple Zero (000) for our five-year-old son in Mackay in distress with breathing issues. We cannot speak highly enough of the call centre person (Sheralyn Cargill) and the two paramedics who responded (Joshua McAnulty and Gareth Taylor). On a very busy night they were calm, professional and we felt so well supported and reassured that our son was in the best hands. We have the greatest respect for these wonderful men and women who work all hours and conditions to keep us safe and healthy. Thank you so much. Exceptional people. Exceptional care and service. Rebecca, Glenella

Jane and Pat, Munruben

Autumn 2021

Happenings In February, North West Regional Manager Brad Hardy was kept busy presenting staff with medals. Randolph Aguirre and Dan Townson (Mount Isa), Martin Ryan (Karumba) and Krystal Smith (Normanton) received 10-year Long Service Medals, while Natalie Fitzgerald (Normanton) received her 15-year National Medal on top of her 10-year Long Service Medal. Meanwhile, North West Indigenous Paramedic Program cadets Caleb Pigliafiori and Kirra Bruce completed their Certificate IV in Health Care before diving straight into their Diploma of Paramedic Science.

Patient Warren Woods stopped by Ipswich Ambulance Station in February to give a heart-warming thank you to paramedics Ashleigh Marriott, Leticia Rawlings, Jake Ash, Natalie Edwards, Brenton Murphy, CCP George Ohan, EMD Chelsea Davies, gym manager Neil Moore and gym members for saving his life in January when he went into cardiac arrest while exercising at his gym. Early, good-quality CPR and defibrillation certainly helped save Warren’s life that day.

The teddies on this stretcher were knitted with lots of love and aim to put some smiles back on the faces of our patients. A big pat on the back to Carlyle Garden Knitting Ladies for the donation to our Cooktown paramedics so they could give the teddies to children and elderly patients during distressing situations to help keep them calm.

Our paramedics were invited to take part in a multi-agency training exercise with the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services and the Queensland Police Service in March. The incident involved a helicopter crash with four casualties at Caboolture airfield.

In February, a cohort of regional paramedics hailing from stations such as Blackwater, Boyne Island, Calliope, Gladstone and Mount Larcom received their long service medals. A special mention must go to John Moynihan for receiving his National Medal 3rd Clasp for 45 years of service and Brad Lawson who received a Long Service Medal 2nd Clasp for 30 years of service.

Autumn 2021

HAPPENINGS • Autumn 2021

There were smiles all around in March when one of the first recipients of the Corpuls CPR Mechanical Chest Compression Device, Jaime Estrella, and wife Amie, reunited with some of the QAS officers who helped save his life after he went into cardiac arrest at his Tingalpa workplace in October 2020. CCPs Bob Birmingham and Jacob Lange, ACPs Sonia Wu and Rick Smith and PTO Marina Giannaros were also delighted to meet Jamie, whose stars aligned that day, from the moment Triple Zero (000) was called, to the effective bystander CPR and the life-saving treatment by the QAS and Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital staff.

We are so proud of the achievements of our volunteers who are the backbone of our organisation. It was rewarding to have one of our selfless volunteers, Gatton Local Ambulance Committee (LAC) President Aubrey Kilah, awarded Citizen of the Year as part of the Lockyer Valley Australia Day Awards. The LAC was also recognised with a Certificate of Achievement for the community events they hold. Congratulations to Aubrey and the Gatton LAC!

Paramedic Jen Kinsela abseiled down the iconic Kangaroo Point cliffs in Brisbane for the 2021 Leaping Ladies campaign. The annual White Cloud Foundation event, which was held during Queensland Women’s Week in March, raises awareness for perinatal depression and funds to support a Meals for Mums Program.

A great example of inter-agency teamwork took place on the high seas in January when our crews responded to a trawler off Scarborough with the assistance of Volunteer Marine Rescue. Wherever someone may be calling for help, we find a way to get there with our partner agencies!

The QAS supported RACQ in the delivery of a Docudrama mock car crash scenario to senior students at St John Fisher College in March. The engaging and interactive program empowers students to make better and more informed choices both as a driver and passenger. As part of the program, students were introduced to the ‘Fatal Five’ road safety issues: drink and drug driving, fatigue, not wearing a seat belt, speeding and distraction.

Congratulations to Robyn Baggow who recently completed a Cert lV in Healthcare, expanding her scope of practice. Her supportive colleagues at Bowen Station presented her with a certificate and celebrated the wonderful milestone. Meanwhile, Robyn and Bowen OIC Gary Mathieson were a welcome sight when they stopped by the Bowen RSL in late January to show locals how to use their newly purchased AED.

Autumn 2021

Notes

Reflects activities during the period from 1 December 2020 to 30 March 2021.

Farewells

Movers and Shakers

Notes

Appointments made during the period from 23 November 2020 to 3 March 2021.

Appointments

NAME

Position Title

Philip Wingrave David Thompson

John Lobban Steve Brant Nigel Beyer

Paramedic Paramedic Senior Advisor, Workplace Health and Safety Paramedic Paramedic Administration Officer OIC Paramedic Senior Operations Development Officer Emergency Medical Dispatcher Paramedic Paramedic

Brenda Walker

Operations Centre Supervisor

Anthony Scarsi Kent Johnston Richard Vere Dean Carroll William Gibbs Alysha Hardaker Rebecca Bollington Gregory Cooper Nathan Coe Arkin Mackay Thomas Corbet Barry Green Steven McElroy Sarah Hayes Emma Keenan

Paramedic Administration Officer Patient Transport Officer Paramedic Paramedic Paramedic Paramedic Paramedic Paramedic Paramedic Community Education Instructor First Responder Paramedic Paramedic Paramedic

20 19 19 17 15 13 13 12 12 12 11 11 11 11 10

NAME

Position Title

Matthew Varney Douglas McKenzie Kate McCoist Kathryn Fitzpatrick Nicole Bosgra Shane Schick Hilary Piper

23-Nov-20 23-Nov-20 30-Nov-20 30-Nov-20 02-Dec-20 07-Dec-20 14-Dec-20

Cairns and Hinterland LASN West Moreton LASN HR Administration Wide Bay LASN State Operations Centre Metro South LASN Metro South LASN

23-Dec-20

Executive Services

Brad Hardy Samuel Eager

OIC - Gordonvale Ambulance Station OIC - Redbank Ambulance Station Senior HR Consultant OIC - Maryborough Ambulance Station Senior HR Consultant Operations Supervisor Operations Supervisor Executive Manager Fair and Inclusive Workforce Reform Executive Manager Clinical Support Officer

11-Jan-21 11-Jan-21

Edward Juru

Mental Health Liaison Clinican

18-Jan-21

Anthony Fletcher Michael McAuliffe

Clinical Support Officer Clinical Support Officer

25-Jan-21 01-Feb-21

Peerke Murphy

Mental Health Liaison Clinican

08-Feb-21

Denis O'Sullivan Melissa Mangan Leisl Heiniger

Senior Operations Supervisor Media Supervisor Executive Manager HR Services

15-Feb-21 03-Mar-21 03-Mar-21

North West LASN West Moreton LASN Mental Health Response Program Wide Bay LASN West Moreton LASN Mental Health Response Program Cairns and Hinterland LASN Media and Communications HR Systems and Governance

Gary Irwin Jon Nolan Anthony C Smith Janice Bate Ian Harrold Deborah Severino Michael Jones

Kelly-Anne McGruer

Autumn 2021

Years of Service

Division / Location

43 41

Coolangatta Northgate

Kedron

37 35 31 29 23

Blackall Sunshine Coast LASN Southport Operations Centre Dirranbandi Gold Coast LASN

Kedron

21 21 21

Brisbane State Opcen Atherton Wide Bay LASN Toowoomba Operations Centre Townsville LASN State Operations Centre Ipswich Coolangatta Spring Hill Gold Coast LASN Mackay LASN Edmonton Gold Coast LASN Sunshine Coast LASN Cairns and Hinterland LASN Dayboro Cairns and Hinterland LASN Central Queensland LASN Eatons Hill

Appointed date

Location

Support the CAR 000 Team Variety Queensland is a children’s charity dedicated to assisting Queensland’s sick, disabled and disadvantaged kids by providing life enhancing and often life-saving goods and services such as wheelchairs, walkers, medical research funding, cochlear implants, computers and much more. To achieve this, Variety holds a multitude of fundraising events and ventures on a busy yearly schedule, the largest being the Queensland Variety Bash. Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) Retired Advanced Care Paramedic Wayne Tester has the ‘Car 000’. He has been a proud supporter of Variety Queensland since 1992 and has completed 29 Bashes and numerous other fundraising events. The Car 000 Team would like to give QAS employees the opportunity to continue to make contributions to Variety Queensland. To make a one-off, weekly or monthly contribution, visit www.varietybashqld.com.au/wayne-tester Please note that donations of $2 and above are fully tax-deductible. For more information on Variety visit www.variety.org.au/qld

The Variety Story Variety Queensland is part of a world-wide volunteer organisation devoted to helping sick, disabled and disadvantaged children. It all started in Pittsburgh, USA, in 1927 when a group of 11 young men working in a theatre formed a social club called ‘Variety’. On Christmas Eve in 1928 at a party in the Sheridan Theatre, Pittsburgh, an infant girl was found in the stalls of the theatre. Attached to the blanket in which the baby was wrapped, was a note; ‘Please take care of my baby. Her name is Catherine. I can no longer take care of her’, signed a broken-hearted mother. Proving the heart of show business was in fact a big one, members of the first Variety Club decided to foster the baby. She was officially named Catherine Variety Sheridan. The members of the club set about ensuring Catherine was well provided for and in not time at all, she had more than one child could use. The club directed it attention to other needy children and thus began Variety!

For more information on the Queensland Variety Bash, please contact Ret. A.C. Paramedic Wayne Tester: call 0409 CAR 000, check out Facebook Car 000 or email car--000@bigpond.com

Stay safe this winter

Vaccination Program, visit For information on the QAS Influenza px influenzastrategy/Pages/default.as cal/ https://qas.psba.qld.gov.au/clini

QAS Insight Magazine - Autumn 2021 Edition

Articles inside

Priority One

News

Thank yous

HARU Report

LARU Report

OpCen Reports

ISRE Report