EVEREST REPORT • RECYCLING INITIATIVE • JUMBO EXERCISE • MOUNT ISA PROFILE
Winter 2019
Also inside Cancer battler Chris
Jenny’s new life
Winter 2019
Lindsay’s 40 years
USAR update
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Contents • Winter 2019
Features
Regulars Minister’s message
2
Commissioner’s message
2
News
Briefs OpCen reports
4
LARU
13
17
Thank yous ISRE report
3
Priority One HARU Happenings Movers and Shakers
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CANCER-FIGHTING CHRIS
CAREER MILESTONE
32
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8
CHIPPY’S MIRACLE
LEGACY RIDERS
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16
JENNY’S NEW LIFE
USAR INSIGHTS
18
24
LONGREACH EXERCISE
DINGO BITE REUNITE
28
44
36
39
46
48
QAS INSIGHT is published quarterly by the QAS Media Unit, GPO Box 1425, Brisbane QLD 4001. Editorial and photographic contributions are welcome and can be submitted to: Joanne.Hales@ambulance.qld.gov.au 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. Winter 2019 edition contributors: Jo Hales, Michael Augustus, Andrew Kos, Emma O’Connor, Jo Mitchell, Matt Stirling, Kent Jackson and Emily Mildred. Designed by: Masthead Design & Creative Spring 2019 edition key dates: • 26 July: advertiser bookings • 9 August: supplied artwork received • 26 September: scheduled release
Front cover: Cairns paramedic Lisa Smith and Torres Strait Field Officer Deidre Whap take part in a QAS photo shoot at Lower Freshwater Creek in the Cairns suburb of Brinsmead. Photo: Philippe Vipathkun
Winter 2019
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Minister
Commissioner
I know QAS officers have attended some devastating road crashes recently.
Our workload experienced high growth over the Autumn period and saw the QAS record 10 of its busiest days in the organisation’s history.
While our thoughts go first to those lives lost and families affected, it is important to acknowledge road trauma takes a toll on those first responders and ED staff left to patch the bodies up — people like you. On behalf of all Queenslanders please know we appreciate the work you do every day, and we appreciate some days can be especially hard. And if you feel you could use a bit of support never hesitate to reach out to a colleague or Priority One. You also do not deserve to ever experience violence at work. That is why I was pleased to launch a new campaign against occupational violence in Townsville recently. You can check it out here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=1YPw6xt5pn8&t=4s If the campaign works, we will roll it out across the state. I know a lot of your time will be spent helping out people with the flu. Take it from me — the flu can knock any of us for six. I have had my flu shot this year, but it got me really bad a couple of years back. I recently caught up with Mark, one of the ambos who gave me a lift to Redcliffe Hospital that day. I know you are working harder than ever, responding to more calls than ever before. That is why the recent State Budget included a record $885.7 million QAS budget including funding for 200 more ambos and 122 vehicles. Because, as you all know, we really need them.
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I would like to acknowledge that, in addition to recent unprecedented demand, there has also been a large number of recent high-profile traumatic events which I know some of you would have responded to, or know those who responded to those cases. Our thoughts are with you all and with the families of those impacted by these tragic events. Should you require it, I encourage you to utilise the services of Priority One, which is available to all members of the QAS on 1800 805 980. The peak period of the flu season is well and truly upon us, and we tend to see a strong correlation between the flu season and an increase in demand for QAS services. It is estimated we will see a likely increase in demand of between six and ten per cent this year. We expect this every year and we are well-placed to deal with the flu season and have capacity to meet the demand. Prevention is the best form of medicine, and it was pleasing to see so many staff receiving their flu shots over the last few weeks.
And the next instalment of the paramedic pay increase is in there too. So that’s something to look forward to. Thanks again for looking after Queensland.
Steven Miles MP Minister for Health and Minister for Ambulance Services
Winter 2019
Russell Bowles ASM QAS Commissioner
NEWS • Winter 2019
Community Education Unit realignment The QAS has been a major provider of nationally-accredited first aid training statewide for over two decades. To support the QAS and its ability to improve Out of Hospital Cardiac Arrests (OHCA) within our communities, the QAS Education Centre (QASEC) Community Education Unit (CEU) has been identified as the unit that will transition to support the QAS Community CPR Awareness Program. This transition will also support LACs to deliver and coordinate Community CPR awareness training throughout LASNs.
The transition will strongly support the QAS’s obligations towards increasing CPR (bystander response) in the community whilst meeting the government and health expectations of increasing OHCA outcomes. This will be achieved by building more resilient communities through enhanced and additional free community CPR and AED familiarisation and awareness. The CEU currently reports under the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Service Planning and Performance portfolio via the QASEC.
Anticipated to commence on 1 August 2019, the CEU and staff will realign and report to the Office of the Commissioner under the Media, Communications and Community Engagement Unit. Stakeholder engagement and consultation with staff is currently taking place and is ongoing. We see this move as a positive step to ensure our accredited first aid training and public education meets the needs of the community in future years.
Our new Executive Director, Workforce: Ray Clarke Ray began with the QAS in March, joining from the Office of Industrial Relations, bringing with him broad experience in the public service – Ray has worked for around 20 agencies during his 26-year career. He joins QAS for the second time, having served a short stint back in 2008.
In this new role at Kedron, Ray essentially oversees all the areas of Human Resources. Ray says working for the QAS is a rewarding experience for a non-operational employee as he genuinely feels like he is able to make a difference in the community.
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Dennis Jess farewell at Hemmant Cemetery Chapel
Hundreds of people paid their respects at the funeral of much-loved and revered QAS officer Dennis Jess who lost his courageous battle with cancer on 1 April. The stalwart of the ambulance service, who was forced into early retirement due to his ill-health, was one of the QAS’s finest. Dennis commenced as an Honorary Ambulance Officer in 1990, becoming a permanent officer with the Queensland Ambulance Transport Brigade in 1991. Dennis had many roles in the QAS, including 12 years as the Director of Education.
When he retired in 2018, Dennis was working in the Medical Director’s Office as the Director of Clinical Assurance and Complaint Management. His commitment and drive for clinical quality, patient safety and paramedic professional development made him an immensely valued icon in the QAS. Dennis is survived by the love of his life, Katrina, his wife of more than 30 years, and their four children: Thomas, Louis, Lauren and Lawson. Valé, Dennis.
Winter 2019
Roam’s OpCen visit It takes a very brave person to realise the error of their ways and apologise. So, hats off to nine-year-old Roam who penned a heartfelt apology to the QAS after he participated in a prank with his friends at his school and dialed Triple Zero (000). Roam’s mother, Melynda Watson, said when the school initially notified her about the prank call, she was shocked. “I was very upset when I found out … He knew he was in serious trouble,’’ Melynda said. Roam was so remorseful about his actions, he wrote the apology letter which was subsequently posted on the QAS Facebook page.
QAS Media also contacted Melynda to see if she and Roam would like to visit the Brisbane OpCen. “Roam is very keen to go into the OpCen but he is also very nervous,” Melynda said when the pair arrived at Kedron Headquarters for the visit. “He is a kid and kids make mistakes, but I want him to be responsible and respectful. This is a learning experience and one he won’t do again. He can also take the experience back to his mates.” It turns out Roam’s OpCen visit may even have planted the seeds for a future career with the QAS. When he walked inside he was amazed and said, “I really like it. I didn’t think it would be like this. It is great seeing how everything works.”
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Chukka’s fundraiser Dimbulah paramedic Charles (Chukka) Khan’s hair underwent a myriad of colour changes when he took part in the World’s Greatest Shave for the Leukaemia Foundation. Charles said he decided to ‘give all of my potential sponsors value for money by colouring my hair before I shaved, this also served as a discussion/laughing point to create awareness and promote donations’. “Whenever someone asked why my hair was coloured I told them and invited them to sponsor me,’’ he said. Charles, who raised more than $2500, was inspired to take part in the event because of a close friend who was suffering from Leukaemia. Sadly, his friend passed away a week before the shave off.
Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month The QAS marked the start of Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) Prevention Month in May by taking part in candle-lighting vigils at locations around the state, (pictured Kangaroo Point Cliffs in Brisbane) to remember those Queenslanders who have needlessly lost their lives to DFV. Throughout the month, ambulance stations and LACs in LASNs conducted a range of activities, including breakfasts and morning teas, to raise awareness of DFV and send a clear message that violence will not be tolerated. The QAS is proud to be a White Ribbon Accredited Workplace. Together we can stand up, speak out and act to prevent DFV.
Winter 2019
Department BRIEFS title / section • Winter/ 2019 topic
National Volunteer Week 2019
ASM honour It was a proud moment for the QAS when Assistant Commissioner John Hammond received his Ambulance Service Medal from the Governor of Queensland at a ceremony at Government House in May. The special event was attended by Commissioner Russell Bowles and John’s family.
A swag of events was held across the state to celebrate the valuable achievements and dedication of the QAS’s precious volunteers during National Volunteer Week from 20 to 26 May.
The ASM recognises distinguished service by the women and men of Australia’s ambulance organisations. This prestigious honour is acknowledgement of John’s high-level leadership across senior management roles within the QAS. It recognises his dedication to maintaining ambulance services to the Gold Coast community during the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games and establishing collaborative relationships with key allied health services to ensure the health, safety and wellbeing of staff and the community.
Volunteers have been an important part of the ambulance service in Queensland since its inception in 1892, when a group of Brisbane citizens first met and decided to form the City Ambulance Transport Brigade – the ancestor of our modern QAS. This year’s theme “Making a world of difference” highlighted the significant impact of volunteers in what was the 30th anniversary of National Volunteer Week. Our volunteers, ranging from first responders and volunteer drivers to Local Ambulance Committee members, are an integral part of the QAS family, helping to build resilience and strength in the communities we serve!
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Women’s Network Event and QAS Workforce Forum update
Commissioner Russell Bowles and the QAS central office executive team were among those who attended the QAS sponsored Women’s Network Event and the QAS Workforce Forum in Rockhampton on 28 and 29 May 2019. Ninety QAS and Queensland Health employees took part in the Women’s Network Event which featured the theme ‘Unleashing your potential’.
The 10th QAS Workforce Forum had a regional focus with more than 70 employees from the Wide Bay, Central Queensland, Central West, South West and Mackay LASNs coming together to share their views on workforce issues raised through the Working for Queensland survey results. The next QAS Workforce Forum is in Brisbane in September. Employees wanting to register for the event can email: QAS.WorkforceReform@ambulance.qld.gov.au
Winter 2019
QAS role a lifeline for cancer-fighting Chris Sometimes life deals a cruel hand: this has never been more evident than for Miles OIC Chris Grimes who has had more than his fair share of health crises over the last eight years. Jo Hales talks to the brave dad-of-three as he continues his battle to stay alive. When ACP2 Chris Grimes collapsed in a lake on 21 December 2011 at the age of 40, during a family outing to the Gold Coast, wife Leanne initially thought he may have been playing a prank. In the lead-up to the incident, Chris, who was undergoing chemotherapy treatment for bowel cancer, had been chatting to Leanne and his friend Tony Stout, who was the OIC of Miles Ambulance Station at the time. “One minute Chris was talking to us and the next moment he was on his knees with his head in the water,’’ Leanne said.
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“Initially I was thinking ‘what is going on … is he playing a joke’ … but we quickly realised it was serious when bubbles started coming out of his mouth.” Chris had suffered a cardiac arrest. He was pulled from the water and placed on the ground where Tony, assisted by a passing off-duty lifesaver, performed CPR on him. ■ Chris, second from right, is flanked by his Miles Ambulance Station colleagues (left to right) Bryce Williams, Amelia Hutchins and Anthony Clark.
Making the dire situation even more heartbreaking was the fact Chris and Leanne’s three young children, Bailey, Isabel and Tahlia, who had been contentedly playing close by with their grandparents, witnessed their dad collapse. Chris, who needed a defibrillator to shock his heart into a regular rhythm, was rushed by ambulance to the former Gold Coast Hospital. He spent the next six days recovering in the Intensive Care Unit of that hospital and the Allamanda Private Hospital. “We later found out that the cardiac arrest was a result of the chemotherapy drugs Chris had been on,’’ Leanne said. One of the side effects of the drug is a coronary artery spasm, which has the potential to lead to a cardiac arrest.”
However, a new tumour was discovered in his lung in April 2016, requiring six months of chemotherapy as well as radiation and an ablation of the tumour. Over the following two years, more tumours grew, which resulted in Chris being treated with an immunotherapy drug and more chemotherapy. In February this year, it was hoped a scan would give Chris the all-clear. But it was not to be. The scan revealed tumours in Chris’s chest region had spread, indicating the treatment was not working. In addition, new tumours were found in his right lung, lymph nodes, chest and collar bone.
Chris’s life has been a rollercoaster ride since the now 47-year-old was first diagnosed with bowel cancer in April 2011.
Despite the prognosis this gutsy dad refuses to give up. Chris, who started a new round of chemotherapy in May, is hoping that he will be accepted into a clinical trial with new drugs in September.
After going into remission not long after his stint in ICU, Chris spent the following five years cancer-free.
He has also had a tissue sample sent to the USA to find out what treatment will best respond to his cancer.
Winter 2019
QAS lifeline for cancer-fighting Chris
“It keeps me busy and focused so that I am not dwelling on the stressful things going on in my life. I love going to work each day and being committed to what I do.” Prior to joining the QAS, Chris worked in jobs ranging from administration to management on the Gold Coast. He was also an active surf-lifesaving volunteer, holding various positions over many years.
Chris said that making his ongoing health crises more bearable has been the love and support of his family, including Leanne, who has been by his side for almost 20 years, and Bailey, now 17, Isabel, 14 and Tahlia, 11. Chris, who generally works while undergoing chemotherapy, said his job has also been a lifeline.
“I joined the QAS because I enjoy helping people. That was why I was also involved in the surf lifesaving movement. My introduction to surf lifesaving ensured I had a strong interest in life preservation.” Chris also said his sister Anne, who works in administration in Priority One, also influenced him to join the QAS. “She was always on my back, saying ‘you should apply for a job with the QAS, you will make a great ambulance officer’. So, I did join. It is the one time I have taken her advice,’’ he laughed. Chris commenced his QAS career in 2006 and moved the family to Miles in 2010 for what they thought would be a two-year rural town experience. Nine years later and there are no plans to move any time soon. He became the OIC in 2013 after Tony was accepted for the OIC role at Jandowae Ambulance Station.
■ Cheeky teenage children Isabel, Bailey and Tahlia, together with wife Leanne, are staunch supports for Chris at home.
“I love working in a small rural community and being able to help people with the skills provided by the QAS,’’ Chris said. “The locals are so friendly. You know them by their first names. Everyone supports one another.” And while Chris has been dedicated to helping others in his community, few have been privy to the very private and humble QAS officer’s personal health struggles over the years. However, the stress from the ongoing cost for tests and treatments and travel costs associated with driving to Brisbane and Toowoomba, as well as the emotional and mental toll the illness has placed on his body, has reluctantly led Chris to open up to others about his personal situation. Leanne also started a GoFundMe page to help ease the family’s financial burden. Events are also being organised by friends and colleagues in Chris’s Darling Downs LASN. “It got to a point where I realised Leanne and I couldn’t keep fighting this battle alone … It has been going on for so long,” Chris said. “And while I am still coming to terms with having people helping us, whether it be emotionally or financially, it is so rewarding knowing we have all this love and support.”
To donate and to keep up to date with the latest news on Chris and fundraising initiatives for the family, visit https://au.gofundme.com/help-chris-get-the-treatment-he-needs
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Proud heritage of service: Lindsay’s 40 years Lindsay Blow celebrated a career milestone in June, clocking up 40 years of service with the QATB and the QAS. Jo Hales reports on this enthusiastic and hard-working Patient Transport Paramedic, who is also one of our longest-serving Indigenous officers. He continued that role for six years, noting that in that time he volunteered a staggering 3800 hours.
“I couldn’t believe it when I was offered two jobs at the same time, one with the QATB and the other with Customs,’’ Lindsay recounted. “It was a tough decision as they were both great jobs I was keen to pursue … so I decided to leave my decision to fate.
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“I grabbed a piece of paper and wrote the words ‘Ambulance’ and ‘Customs’. I then tore off the words and placed them in a hat with the intention that the one I picked out would be the career path I chose.”
At the same time, Lindsay, who had left school at the end of Year 10, was working at an abattoir. “I would finish my job at the meatworks and then duck into Beaudesert Ambulance Station where I was based, generally finishing up around 10pm. But if we had a patient transport to a Brisbane hospital, it could be a 1.30am finish. I would then go home to bed and get up at 5am to go to the meatworks.” As if that wasn’t exhausting enough, Lindsay was also an Army Reservist from 1980 to 1986.
As luck goes, Lindsay plucked the paper which had ambulance scrawled on it. Now, all these decades later, Lindsay jokes “it was his right hand that guided him to his career”.
He credits the late Superintendent Brian Moore, who was in charge of the Beaudesert Ambulance Centre, with prompting him to apply for a permanent position with the ambulance service.
But he certainly has no regrets about the way his career has mapped out, saying he is proud to be associated with a service that saves lives and helps those in their time of need.
Lindsay, who was friends with one of Brian’s sons, said that “Brian was always encouraging me to apply to the service for a permanent role, so one day I did just that’’.
Lindsay’s introduction to the QATB began in 1979 when he began working as an honorary officer in his home town of Beaudesert.
When he accepted the permanent ambulance officer role from Brian, Lindsay said “it was amazing being presented with the uniform, cap, long white socks, cardigan and shoes”.
Winter 2019
Throughout his ambulance career, the 56-year-old has worked at ambulance stations including Beaudesert, Noosa, Cooroy, Coolangatta, Coral Gardens, Burleigh and Mudgeeraba. For most of his career, Lindsay has worked as an ACP, but 10 years ago he decided on a role change and began to work in the Patient Transport Service. Lindsay has witnessed many changes to the service over the last four decades. “When I first started working as a volunteer with the QATB, there were only a few Indigenous officers and there were hardly any female officers. It is great to see how things have changed,’’ Lindsay said. “Back in the early days we had a single beacon vehicle (a Valiant), the stretchers were very basic with just two height adjustments and the spare stretcher was canvas.” As well as having the ability to help people, Lindsay said what he loves about his job is chatting to patients. “Not only does this help make them feel at ease, you often find out interesting things about them,’’ Lindsay said. One of the most intriguing patients he has met was a World War I veteran.
Photos: QAS Media / Jo Hales
Mudgeeraba Ambulance Station officer Lindsay Blow has a chuckle as he recalls what led to him accepting a permanent role with the QATB back in 1985.
Lindsay’s 40 years of service
“When I was based at Beaudesert in 1985 we got a job to transport a patient from the local nursing home to an appointment,’’ he said. “The patient was a male with a Dutch surname and as I got talking to him he revealed that he had served at Gallipoli. “I am a history buff so I found it fascinating and an honour to be talking to someone who served on that famous war front.” Supporting Lindsay every step of the way throughout his career has been wife, Debbie, who works at the Gold Coast TAFE. They have two sons — Daniel, 23, and Lachlan, 18 — and Lindsay is also stepdad to Debbie’s daughter Kate, 36, who has a three-year-old son, Ari. Lindsay, who also has a very strong bond with his extended family, is very proud of his Indigenous heritage and culture.
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His mother’s side of the family hail from Melanesia, while his father’s side of the family has Aboriginal heritage. When Lindsay’s late parents — mum Agnus, and dad Hugh, a carpenter — married in 1956, it was the catalyst for the blending of the two cultures. The couple went on to have nine children. One of the ways Lindsay stays connected with his Indigenous heritage is through his community work. On his days off, Lindsay regularly visits Gold Coast schools and kindergartens to educate youngsters about his colourful Indigenous history, the visits encompassing face-painting, storytelling and corroborees. “I have been doing this for more than 20 years and I do not plan to stop,” Lindsay said. “It is so rewarding to see a child’s face light up because they are having fun.”
Opposite page
■ Lindsay with Mudgeeraba Ambulance Station OIC Andre Gollop.
Winter 2019
‘Oarsome’ team-building exercise
Right
■ Our four newest IPP cadets, Robert Rattray, Leanne Gray, Jessie Gilbey-Martin and Mitchell Naylor, have started work in their communities at Dunwich, Toowoomba and Kuranda Ambulance Stations. Below
■ Experiencing Tai Chi in a leafy riverfront park.
The Tennyson event was part of a ‘sharing of culture and inclusion’ activity, with members of the cohort also introduced to the art of Tai Chi for use in relaxation and stress release. Held on the last day of group workshops, the fun event signaled an end to training and assessment at Whyte Island in the preceding weeks. The group included our four newest IPP cadets — Mitchell Naylor, Leanne Gray, Jessie Gilbey-Martin and Robert Rattray — who hail from our Cairns, Darling Downs and Metro South LASNs. These cadets commenced their careers on 1 April 2019.
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Winter 2019
Senior Clinical Educator, Cultural Capability Trish Murray said having the group come together was not just about clinical education and assessments, but a time to embrace and celebrate diversity and inclusion.
All photos: Jo Hales except page 11 top right / Andrew Kos
There was plenty of splashing around when our Indigenous Paramedic Program (IPP) and Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) Paramedic Program participants took part in a team-building exercise in dragon boats on the Brisbane River on 9 May.
IPP and CALD team-building exercises
“It’s an opportunity to share stories and experiences with each other, strengthen our support networks and discuss together ideas and strategies on how we can continue to work together to make the QAS a culturally competent and safe workplace,” Trish said.
Trish said that, with stress levels elevated during assessment time, the peaceful relaxation techniques of Tai Chi gave both the cadets and educators an opportunity to learn about being centred in one’s self and having a healthy body and mind.
“To best represent the communities we serve, it is important that we take the time to learn and embrace all cultures.
In the past, sharing of culture and inclusion activities have incorporated visits to North Stradbroke Island for a tour of the historical museum and story sharing with the Quandamooka people.
“At the biannual IPP and CALD workshops, we endeavour to engage with other cultural groups to share values and learn more about other customs and traditions.” Trish said the May workshop gave participants an opportunity to learn some aspects of the Chinese culture and exchange stories of connection to the community and the value of working together. “Dragon boat racing in Chinese culture is no different to our community football teams coming together. Particularly in smaller remote communities, football and other sports are a way of bringing communities together and connecting with one another.”
■ IPP and CALD presentation ceremony on 8 May 2019. Below
■ The Tennyson-based dragon boat club provided two dragon boats for the event, and assistants including water safety officers and a Tai Chi master.
“On other occasions, participants have attended The Murri School in Brisbane to interact with students and take part in education sessions,’’ she said. Trish said there are 43 cadets currently engaged with the IPP and CALD Paramedic Program. “It is always rewarding to see our colleagues progressing through the clinical ranks, but most of all we are seeing the difference that our cadets are making within their communities,’’ Trish said. “It is the sense of pride and passion in each of them that is truly something special.”
Winter 2019
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Grateful Chippy’s Finch Hatton reunite
Legendary local on the receiving end Former carpenter Kevin Hutchinson, aka Chippy, has dedicated half of his life volunteering with emergency services in the Finch Hatton community. But in February this year it was the local emergency services who rushed to Chippy’s aid after he suffered a critical medical episode. Jo Hales reports on a heart-warming story from the Mackay LASN. Kevin ‘Chippy’ Hutchinson is a bit of a legend around Finch Hatton. The muchloved character, who once worked as a carpenter at the town’s sugar mill before it closed in 1990, has given so much to his community over the years. He has an extensive history with the emergency services, which includes three years serving as a volunteer driver with the QAS. Chippy has also clocked up a staggering 36 years with the Rural Fire Service, working extensive hours during the bushfire emergency in the region in late 2018. But in February this year, Chippy was the one in need of urgent emergency assistance when he suffered a heart attack and almost died.
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Finch Hatton ACP2 Mick Lowth has known Chippy since moving to the small town, which has a population of around 262 (in the 2016 census). He was also the first officer on scene after the 72-year-old widower made a Triple Zero (000) call after suffering the sudden onset of chest pain. “Chippy was very unwell when I got to him … he was sitting on the front verandah and I could see he was at death’s door,’’ Mick said. “While Chippy was alert and orientated, he was grey, clammy and his heart rate was only 35, with no palpable radial pulse. His initial blood pressure was 100/75.” Chippy was also complaining of sharp anterior chest pain and a 12-lead ECG revealed an acute inferior STEMI. Mick requested CCP backup and, because there were no officers locally, he also asked for a local QPS officer to attend and drive the ambulance, so he could care for Chippy. That officer was Senior Constable Scott Black. He had been on a day off but wasted no time getting to Chippy’s house to assist Mick and Chippy. In the meantime, CCP Julian Kibby was travelling lights and sirens from South Mackay to rendezvous with the ambulance which was 60 kilometres away.
■ Chippy, in his RFS uniform, is flanked by (left to right) CCP Julian Kibby, ACP2 Mick Lowth and QPS Senior Constable Scott Black.
“Chippy deteriorated really fast during the drive. I was preparing for him to go into cardiac arrest any moment. By the time we met Julian, Chippy’s heart rate was down to 22.”
Chippy regained full consciousness about 20 minutes after the pacing commenced. This coincided with an intrinsic heart rate improvement to 120 (sinus rhythm with STEMI) and a blood pressure of 90/60.
When Julian boarded the ambulance, another ECG was performed on Chippy. The 12-lead ECG revealed sinus bradycardia at 40 bpm with an inferoposterior STEMI with right ventricle wall involvement. Chippy was unresponsive to treatment with 1.2 mg atropine and 250mL sodium chloride. Julian then proceeded to thrombolyse him.
“Without the interventions, most notably the cardiac pacing for 20 minutes by Julian, I am in no doubt that Chippy would not have survived the journey to hospital,’’ Mick said.
Chippy’s GCS then decreased to 7 with decorticating seizure activity lasting approximately 60-90 seconds. His GCS improved, however, Chippy was agitated and combative to assessment whilst transcutaneous pacing was commenced, with mechanical and electrical capture.
“Chippy is the sickest patient I have ever had who has survived,’ Mick said. “To see him walking, talking and out of hospital is so amazing.”
Julian then gave Chippy a small amount of midazolam to facilitate pacing and reduce combativeness. His airway was supported by means of a jaw thrust, with positive pressure ventilation being required for three minutes due to hypoventilation post-seizure activity and midazolam administration.
Winter 2019
Chippy was admitted to Mackay Hospital’s Critical Care Unit where he was treated with coronary artery stenting and discharged two days later.
Mick said Chippy’s case was a great example of how a small community works well together with the support of a nearby urban centre for the best result for a critically ill patient. Camera and media-shy Chippy said he will always be extremely grateful for the care he received from his emergency services angels in teal and blue.
Operations Department title / Centre sectionReports / topic
OpCen Reports Insight’s OpCen Report continues to highlight examples of outstanding responses to Triple Zero (000) calls by our dedicated staff at Operations Centres around the state. Rockhampton OpCen EMD Dominique White blended caring, compassion, situational awareness and a sense of urgency as she instructed a first party choking caller on what to do until help arrived. Dominique identified very early that the caller was experiencing difficulty in talking and breathing and, once the caller had verified his address, Dominique made the decision to read the phone number back to the patient. Whilst Dominque did step outside protocol, she had recognised (after successful verification of the address) that further questioning of the caller may have caused additional distress and further complications for the caller.
Call lessons When considering stepping outside of protocol, we must ask ourselves “Am I doing this to provide immediate care for the patient?”. While it is an infrequent occurrence, we may need to do things for our patients to minimise distress and potential harm. This is one case where forcing the caller to speak, is likely to cause either distress or exacerbate the problem. Remember, it may be appropriate to revisit this aspect IF the callers find themselves able to complete requests.
Brisbane OpCen EMD Tessa Elmes received a call from a distressed mother of a seven-year-old boy. The child was febrile, had vomiting and diarrhoea but had become “incoherent” and was “semi-conscious” with what was later confirmed as his first seizure. Tessa demonstrated excellent call control and a high level of compassion and caring and was able to get the mother to focus on the task at hand. The family was so impressed with the support they received from Tessa, they wrote a letter of appreciation, thanking Tessa for being “kind and calm and keeping her focused on caring” for their son whilst waiting for the paramedics to arrive.
EMD Melanie Smith did an excellent job in assisting the caller and patient in delivering a breech baby of 29 weeks’ gestation. Melanie responded in a calm, professional manner with instructions provided very clearly and appropriately modified to suit the situation. Melanie was able to adapt to a very difficult situation to ensure the best outcome for the mother and baby. Once the crew arrived on scene the baby was delivered in arrest. The responding paramedics worked on the baby who was transported to hospital with the last sitrep stating “Baby’s heart rate picked up at hospital, Baby is breathing for herself”.
Call lessons This was a very difficult and unusual call. Melanie did an excellent job of instructing the parents. She was caring and compassionate yet assertive as required. Whilst receiving calls such as this one is quite uncommon, Melanie controlled the call exceptionally well, leaving the family knowing they were in capable hands. It is vital that our callers feel confident that you are able to handle any situation that comes your way: knowing your protocols will help you in gaining and projecting that confidence.
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Southport OpCen Call lessons The mother in this call identified herself as a Doctor and was very concerned something was “seriously wrong”. Tessa acknowledged this information but was also alert to the fact that the mother was obviously distressed. Through excellent explanation of her actions, Tessa was able to get the mother to not only follow her instructions but also get her to remain calm and focused on her child. This call identifies that when a loved one is sick or injured even highly trained professionals can need some additional support.
EMD Luke Harvey received a call from a somewhat bemused administration officer at a primary school. The caller advised a sevenyear-old child had managed to get their finger stuck in a plastic desk. The finger was significantly swollen and was unable to be removed. Correctly selecting Protocol 22 — Inaccessible Incidents / Other entrapments — Luke demonstrated outstanding active listening skills to triage the call without the need to ask a single Key Question.
Call lessons There is a common misconception that red Key Questions must always be asked as they relate to scene safety. This is not correct. Luke had already been provided with sufficient information making the answer to the safety questions “obvious”, thus these questions — in fact, all Key Questions — were not required to be asked.
Winter 2019
QAS Legacy benefits from Everest fundraiser They battled the elements and altitude sickness participating in the 2019 Trek4Paramedics Challenge, but there was no wiping the smiles from the faces of our QAS team after reaching the Everest Base Camp destination on 11 April. INSIGHT Editor Jo Hales and trekker ACP2 Kent Jackson report on this gallant QAS Legacy Scheme Incorporated fundraiser. “This fundraiser ended up being so timely, considering the unfortunate and tragic death of officer Craig McCulloch whilst on duty in January,” Rhys said.
Trek4Paramedics Challenge group leader Chermside ACP2 Rhys Greedy said it was a sweet feeling arriving at Everest Base Camp and, despite being utterly exhausted, everyone broke into cheers and hugged one another.
He also said the breathtaking scenery along the trek made the group’s exhaustion and ailment issues much more bearable. Along the route, the group was treated to panoramic views of forests, mountains, villages, gompas (monasteries) and friendly interactions with the local Sherpas. The adventure, which began and ended in Brisbane, lasted 19 days, with locations visited including Kathmandu, Lukla, Namche Bazaar and Dingboche.
■ Pre-departure group photo at Brisbane International Airport. ■ Safely arrived at Lukla airport to commence the trek, the group paused to look down the runway at an elevation of 2845 metres.
“We were all deeply saddened to hear of Craig’s passing, so it is great that our fundraising efforts are benefiting QAS Legacy which is providing financial support to Craig’s children.” Rhys said it was amazing glimpsing the world’s highest mountain, which in May attracted worldwide media coverage when a traffic backlog occurred as climbers attempted to make it to the summit with, sadly, a number of deaths among them.
■ Group mascot ‘Qasimodo’ looks over the rooftops of Kathmandu and contemplates the adventure ahead.
He said the group, which consisted of 20 paramedics and three of their Queensland Heath friends, spent eight days making their way to the location which has an altitude of more than 5300 metres.
“Everyone made it to base camp and back successfully without needing any evacuation or significant medical treatment, so overall it was quite a good outcome,” Genevieve said. “We did have one case of severe altitude sickness where there was insomnia, no appetite, exercise intolerance and significant shortness of breath. That person continued their Diamox and their regular aspirin, paracetamol and ibuprofen for the headaches and muscle fatigue.
Making their achievement even more victorious was the knowledge the group, along with trek hosts Earth Trails, successfully raised more than $27,000 for QAS Legacy Scheme. Background
■ Sunrise behind the peak of Mount Everest.
Winter 2019
■ Qasimodo had no difficulty negotiating one of the many gorge-spanning bridges.
All photos: Trek4Paramedics Challenge
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Australian Earth Trails medic, and the group’s 2IC, Genevieve Swan said that ‘from a medical perspective the trek went reasonably well’.
“They did require oxygen and immediate descent from Everest Base Camp in which there was a swift improvement of the symptoms.” However, Genevieve said everyone on the team was affected in some way by Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), a common form of altitude sickness.
Other ailments included gastro-like symptoms which lasted for 24 to 48 hours; meanwhile, four people presented with sinus infections which they were able to ‘self-treat with their own antibiotics’.
“Some members experienced headaches, decreased appetite, interrupted sleep and upset gastro-intestinal symptoms,” she said.
“For those who expressed interest in attending this year but missed out, or for those thinking they might like to challenge themselves while supporting a great cause, the partnership between QAS Legacy Scheme and Earth Trails Expeditions is ongoing,” Mindy said.
■ Trek guide Gokul Chhantyal adds to the office collection of climbers’ memorabilia with a memento from ACP Rhys Greedy.
Nepalese leader and Earth Trails trek guide Gokul Chhantyal described the trek as a success.
■ Although the group had the services of a dedicated handler, ACP Kent Jackson still found the going to be ‘hard yakka’…
Genevieve said everyone scored five or less on the Lake Louise Score (which evaluates for symptoms of AMS), indicating they were either mildly or moderately affected. In addition, three members of the team suffered from significant physical fatigue. Genevieve said that, to help alleviate their symptoms, loads were shared amongst other members of the group, who also motivated and encouraged them to keep moving.
“The best part for me was when everybody got to Everest Base Camp,” he said.
■ Scenery superlatives were in short supply, as the group got closer to ‘the roof of the world’.
“There were lots of challenges for the team because a lot of people are from sea level and it was very hard to get over 5000 metres, but they had so much heart.” The Earth Trails Nepalese trek team comprised one guide, three Sherpas, three porters, six yaks and a yak handler. QAS Legacy Secretary Mindy Thomas was also extremely appreciative of the group’s efforts, adding that it was a ‘fantastic effort’ by all. She said there was great news for any QAS officers keen to take part in an Everest Base Camp trek next year.
■ Namche Bazaar nestles on the side of a mountain at 3440 metres.
■ Everest Base Camp triumph: Genevieve Swan said it was satisfying to see a group of people working together to achieve one goal of ticking-off something that’s on most people’s bucket list.
Registrations of interest for the 2020 Trek4Paramedics Challenge can be made at: www.qaslegacy.org/trek4paramedics2020
Winter 2019
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QAS Legacy fundraising ride
Pedal4Paramedics There were some tired legs but plenty of smiles in May after the QAS Legacy Pedal4Paramedics rolled back into Toowoomba having clocked up 674 kilometres of cycling throughout the Darling Downs over seven days.
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QAS Legacy President and event organiser Glenn Preston said this year’s event included Comms officers and paramedics from several LASNs and non-QAS riders, one all the way from Victoria. He praised the support of the community, including the event sponsors and Local Ambulance Committees who helped keep the riders well fed.
The 2020 Pedal4Paramedics is already being planned with the event starting on 11 May in Gladstone and taking in a whopping 850 kilometres over the seven days including the Central Queensland and Wide Bay towns of Biloela, Gayndah, Bundaberg and Agnes Water.
Above left
■ The group was well escorted across the rural landscape.
Left
■ A pause in Pittsworth for a group photo.
Below left
■ Jovial departure from Clifton by the peloton.
Background
■ Rolling through the hills outside Toowoomba.
More information can be found here: www.qaslegacy.org/2020-pedal4paramedics-challenge
Winter 2019
All photos: QAS Media / Andrew Kos
Eleven riders plus support crew braved the predominantly flat but at times cold and windy terrain to raise more than $16,500 for the organisation. The peloton made stops at schools along the way to talk CPR and first aid and visited a legatee family.
Local Area Assessment and Referral Unit
LARU clinical assessment FINDING THE NEEDLE IN THE HAYSTACK — why are the keys always found in the last place you look? Because after you find them, you stop looking! It was this concept that I battled with in a case that I recently attended, writes LARU officer Jamie Hibbert. Above
■ ACP2 Jamie Hibbert.
I was dispatched on a Code 2CL to an 84-year-old male (I’ll call him Bruce) whose complaint came through as “Sick Person, No Priority Symptoms”. He awoke at 7:30am as usual and, upon standing, found he had a new onset of unsteadiness on his feet. Thinking nothing of it, he went to have a shower, but then noticed bilateral pins and needles throughout his entire upper and lower limbs with associated weakness, which caused concern. He even required assistance to undertake any subsequent personal grooming and walk back to the bed, prompting the call to the QAS. Bruce had a squeaky-clean medical history for his age. He was healthy, very active, had never experienced any mobility issues, had no history of this presentation, and took no prescribed medications, only supplements. He was so fit and strong that he had just been on a trip to Hong Kong two weeks prior. Once I had established that Bruce, who was reclining in his bed and looking up at me nonchalantly, wouldn’t be able to get into my LARU vehicle even if he did require transport, I requested a full crew to attend whilst I progressed the assessment. I commenced a routine assessment and while we were chatting I joked that I’d see if I could find anything wrong with him, because indeed he was feeling fine apart from his mobility. His vital signs were all within normal limits, with a blood pressure better than most 40-year-olds. His breathing was unaffected, with no pain on inspiration, clear fields on auscultation and perfect oxygen saturations to match. His pulse was regular and his ECG was near-perfect, revealing only a previously diagnosed right bundle branch block. No chest pain was present, and he was afebrile. I checked his blood sugar — normal. His skin colour and turgor were fine: no chills, fevers, or sweats. No jaundice. Pupils were equal and reactive. Nothing. “Hmmm … you’re not giving me much to work with here, Bruce. You’ll have to do better than that!” I jokingly bantered.
I wasn’t satisfied. Something wasn’t right — and I couldn’t find it. This was going to be a tough nut to crack. Having completed the basics, I moved on to the more detailed assessments. Mentally thumbing through all the different workshops and training sessions I had previously attended, I proceeded with a cardiovascular examination to rule out the nasties. Nailbeds and palms were great. Pulses were bilaterally equal. JVP was unremarkable. No chest scars, sounds, or unequal/abnormal movements. I moved onto the respiratory examination … nothing abnormal — percussion was awesome with no dull spots, and his “99” was loud and clear through the stethoscope. No obvious or suspected clots. I performed an abdominal assessment. Nil abnormalities. Not even a hepatic flap. He had nice gurgly bowel sounds with no gastrointestinal or genitourinary symptoms or complaints. I searched for neurological signs: cranial nerves checked out fine. No weaknesses or deficits were found in other neuro assessments. Light-headedness and dizziness were foreign to him. Usually by this point, something has made itself known, but not at this address. I was none the wiser than when I first walked in and felt my frustration levels starting to rise. The transport crew’s ETA was five minutes, and I still had nothing.
I held his hands steady and watched as he stood up, proceeded to precariously take a step with his knee high up, his thigh almost parallel to the ground, and take an elevated step while his foot drooped down low, carefully position his foot on the ground, and then do the same with the other foot for the next step. “Gee!” Bruce said, “That’s never happened before!” There it was! A significantly disturbed gait. This was a significant new finding in this seemingly insignificant case and indicated a likely central or spinal cord pathological process — a starting point for investigation. Just then, the transport crew walked in and my time was up. I handed Bruce over with the details of the assessment and what I had found. Of course, his condition and its aetiology would be impossible to properly identify without further testing at hospital. Nevertheless, an elusive key to possibly unlocking his diagnosis had just been found, but not without a decent search. Bruce had put up a good fight, but it was the LARU assessment that prevailed.
I was just about done, but for one more examination — the musculoskeletal assessment. I revisited the reason for the initial call, and confirmed he still had numbness and tingling in his arms and legs with some weakness. Still vague, at best. I worked through each element of the musculoskeletal examination, and my hopes rapidly faded as I mentally checked each box, only for him to pass each element in succession. As I concluded the physical assessments, I said to Bruce, “there’s only one more thing left to do. Please walk from here to the wall, turn around, and tippy-toe back to the bed.”
Winter 2019
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Brave paramedic’s new lease on life Can you imagine what it would be like to wake up each day knowing you were the opposite sex? This is the way transgender QAS paramedic Jennifer Buckley, 38, felt for most of her life. INSIGHT Editor Jo Hales reports on how the loyal Springwood Ambulance Station ACP2 left behind decades of pain and misery after starting the process of physically transitioning from Adrian to ‘Jenny’ in 2017. Jenny is bravely sharing her personal transgender journey in a bid to promote wider understanding in the community and to show how her decision to transition has given her life purpose.
Adding to Jenny’s concern was the fact Sandi has Multiple Sclerosis. Sandi had to stop taking her medication — which stops symptoms from advancing — when she fell pregnant, which placed her at risk of the disease progressing.
“When I look back on my life as Adrian, I was always so angry and unhappy, now I have so much to live for and so much to be happy about,” Jenny said.
Sandi’s medical dramas continued after she was discharged from hospital when, 36 hours later, she was rushed back to hospital with a medical complication following Auden’s birth.
“I always felt I missed out on so much not being a girl, but since starting the transitioning process, everything is now falling into place.”
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Helping add meaning to Jenny and her wife Sandi’s lives was the birth of their tiny bundle of joy, son Auden, on 7 April this year. Weighing in at just over 3000 grams, Auden, who was conceived through IVF, entered the world 11 days early. Jenny said she experienced a mix of emotions when Auden was born. “On the one hand I was so excited to meet him. I couldn’t stop crying, I was a blubbering mess…he was just so perfect,’’ Jenny said. “But at the same time, I was also really worried about Sandi as she was very sick. She had lost a lot of blood and it was a few days before she started to improve.”
Winter 2019
New lease on life for Jenny and Sandi
It has been an incredibly emotionally-charged year for Jenny and Sandi, and there is still more to come. On 30 October, Jenny will undertake the next chapter of her transition when she undergoes gender reassignment. The surgery, which involves altering the physical appearance of Jenny’s existing sexual characteristics, is scheduled to last up to five hours. Jenny will then spend up to ten days in hospital recovering and another 12 weeks convalescing at the couple’s Ipswich home. “I am a bit nervous about the surgery but at the same time I am also looking forward to progressing with my transition,’’ Jenny said. To gain an understanding of Jenny’s incredible journey, it is important to rewind to her childhood when she existed as Adrian. Born in Wellington, New Zealand, Adrian almost died when he was a baby after being born with an enlarged heart, liver and spleen. His stint in hospital coincided with a paediatric conference in Auckland attended by surgeons from all over the world. Some of them were brought to Wellington to assess Adrian. No one could work out why Adrian was sick and his parents were told not to expect their son to live, but, astonishingly, he defied all odds and healed over time.
19 Above
■ Adrian and Sandi in an earlier time of their long relationship.
Supplied: Jenny and Sandi
Background
■ Visibly happier Jenny and Sandi in 2019 with gorgeous baby Auden.
Photo: Jo Hales
Winter 2019
“But it did make me feel calmer on the inside … For me it was a way of connecting with my feminine side,” Jenny said. Away from school, Adrian’s outlet from the tormenting and bullying was video games and playing Mario Kart. Work experience in Grade 12 with the QAS Patient Transport Service also gave Adrian something to look forward to after school. The work experience was held every Thursday over six weeks. Unfortunately, the bullying affected Adrian’s school results. He finished high school with an OP22 after failing every subject bar English. Once Adrian left school, he had his hair cut short and started to work towards his goal of becoming a paramedic. The enjoyment he gained from the work experience spurred him on to apply for the QAS paramedic diploma program. In 2007, seven years after finishing high school, Adrian was accepted into the QAS.
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■ A proud moment for the couple at Kedron-Wavell Services Club.
Supplied: Jenny and Sandi
From the age of eight, Adrian decided he wanted to become a heart surgeon so that he, too, could assist people who were extremely sick. By the time Adrian reached grade 12, his career focus had shifted to paramedicine. As Jenny now reflects on her childhood, she said she intrinsically knew from the age of four that she was not meant to be a boy. “I was miserable, I just knew I was a girl, but I didn’t want to tell anyone, not even my parents and siblings, whom I was very close to … I didn’t think people would understand,” she said. “It wasn’t until the age of around 12 that I realised I was a girl and there was a term for it: transgender.” As if that wasn’t enough to deal with, Adrian was subjected to relentless bullying during high school. “There was lots of name-calling and other students wanting to start fights. I would have fruit thrown at me and I was attacked for no reason … It was horrible,’’ Jenny recalled. “I was always on my guard wondering when they would attack next and what they would do to me. It was a very anxious and distressing time, I could not think properly or concentrate, and I just didn’t have the motivation or energy to do my assignments.” Jenny said when Adrian grew his hair long like Steven Seagal, the action-hero he idolised, ‘it probably didn’t help regarding the bullies …’
Winter 2019
Helping him celebrate the achievement was the love of his life, Sandi, whom he had been dating since 2006. The couple met at a stationery warehouse where Adrian and Sandi’s mum had been working. “I was making Milo in the tea room when Sandi walked in and caught my attention,’’ Jenny recalled. Sandi was initially unaware she had an admirer, but it didn’t take long for the pair to strike up a friendship and then a relationship. Around a year-and-a-half after they began dating, Sandi discovered Adrian was transgender. “I just knew something was wrong. I felt that Adrian had not been telling me everything about himself,’’ Sandi said. It was while the couple were still living separately at their respective parents’ places that Sandi stumbled on Adrian’s secret. “I was staying at Adrian’s place one night when he was on night shift at Springwood, when I tripped on a box sticking out from under his bed,’’ recalls Sandi. “The lid fell open and there were all these female clothes. I sat there thinking what’s going on … these are not Adrian’s clothes, so when he came home I said ‘is there something you need to tell me?’” Recalling that moment, Jenny said it was ‘a relief’ being confronted by Sandi. “I had agonised about telling Sandi for three months leading up to the discovery of the box,’’ Jenny said.
New lease on life for Jenny and Sandi
“I had wanted to tell her. I loved her a lot but at the same time I was worried I might lose her. So, when she found out and confronted me and didn’t leave it was very comforting.” After the revelation, Adrian started to dress more frequently as Jenny at home. “I slowly gained confidence and would go shopping at Chermside, far away from where I live, to lessen the chance of seeing anyone I knew. The more comfortable I became wearing the clothes, the harder it was to go back to existing as Adrian.” Adrian’s social transition occurred in 2011 when, at the age of 30, he confided in family and some friends that he was transgender. The following year he and Sandi married, after eloping to Scotland. And although Adrian continued to tell Sandi he was happy just wearing female clothes, Sandi said she knew he was miserable existing as a male; with her partner becoming increasingly sad and despondent over the years. Finally, after much discussion, deliberation and research, in May 2017 Jenny started the physical transition process. Jenny attended the gender clinic at Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital after being referred by the GP. She met with a social worker, who needed to make sure Jenny had a supportive environment, and a psychologist, who assessed her over two sessions, before a psychiatrist diagnosed her with gender dysphoria. “It was scary at the time because I thought they might say I had mental issues, but thankfully, that wasn’t the case,’’ Jenny said. She also saw a sexual health physician who prescribed hormones and fertility preservation. In October 2017, Jenny had sperm frozen and amazingly Sandi would later go on to fall pregnant on the couple’s first attempt at IVF. Jenny then started on hormones which she will be on for the rest of her life. They include Oestrogen and anti-androgens, which stops the body from producing testosterone. A side effect of the medication has been fatigue but Jenny said that ‘it is a small price to pay for my new life as a female’. Jenny, who has worked at Springwood Ambulance Station for her entire QAS career, started coming to work as Jenny in early 2018. She said the QAS and her work colleagues have been extremely supportive on her transgender journey.
“I have very supportive peers. Everybody is noticing how happy I am now compared to what I was.” Jenny, who will contemplate breast augmentation following her gender reassignment, said she is also lucky to have the amazing love, support and backing of her wife and extended family.
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■ Jenny gives her little bundle of joy a cuddle.
Photo: Jo Hales
Sandi quipped in, saying ‘there was never a question she would leave the love of her life’ when she discovered Adrian’s transgender secret. “This has brought us closer together. I had an open mind to begin with,’’ Sandi said. “You love who you love … for me being with a woman does not come into the equation. I am, however, receiving counselling from a psychologist to mourn the loss of Adrian.” Sandi said the most rewarding aspect of Jenny’s personal journey is her partner’s new zest for life. “Adrian was miserable. He wasn’t who he was supposed to be. Everything changed for the better with Jenny,’’ Sandi said. “She is a new person, happier and friendlier … I feel like I have my best friend back.”
“The QAS has been amazing, they have been behind me every step of the way,’’ Jenny said.
Winter 2019
QAS Diversity and Inclusion Framework launch The Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) is formalising our commitment to achieve a truly inclusive and diverse workforce that is representative of the broader Queensland communities we serve.
Left, below
■ The QAS Cultural Capability Action Plan 2019-2022 is the second cultural capability action plan and was developed in consultation with the QAS Indigenous Network.
On 9 May 2019, the Commissioner officially launched the QAS Diversity and Inclusion Framework. This is a significant milestone for the QAS as it provides us with an opportunity to formally embed and integrate diversity and inclusion into every aspect of our work. The Framework focuses on increasing awareness and understanding that workplace diversity and inclusion is everyone’s responsibility.
The Framework consists of the overarching QAS Diversity and Inclusion Strategy 2019-2022 and is supported by two action plans: • the QAS Cultural Capability Action Plan 2019-2022 • the QAS Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan 2019-2022.
The action plan builds on the important outcomes already achieved and continues the journey to become a culturally-responsive and inclusive workplace, where the QAS can make meaningful contributions to closing the gap through genuine interactions with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and their communities.
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■ The QAS Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan 2019-2022 outlines a range of actions and deliverables designed to build an inclusive and supportive workplace culture that enables employees to participate equally, contribute and thrive.
The action plan focuses on the following priority groups: • gender equity • people with a disability • people from non-English speaking backgrounds • lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer/questioning plus (LGBTIQ+) people.
Our achievements The QAS has already made progress and reached milestones in its action plans. Notably, this includes the establishment of the QAS Indigenous Network, membership on internal and external diversity networks such as the LGBTIQ+ network and Queensland Health women’s network, active presence on significant days of the diversity and inclusion calendar within local communities, and the review of pathways to recruit new and diverse staff.
Get involved All QAS staff are encouraged to actively be involved and contribute to the initiatives contained within the Framework. By working towards a truly inclusive and diverse culture in the QAS, we can ensure better outcomes for the Queensland communities we serve and contribute towards the QAS vision of “Excellence in Ambulance Services”.
Further information To support the launch of the Framework, a new diversity and inclusion site has been developed and is now available on the QAS portal at https://qas.psba.qld.gov.au/hr/diversity/Pages/default.aspx
Winter 2019
QAS Diversity and Inclusion Framework
The QAS Indigenous Network with members from the Central Office Senior Executive Team and Workforce Reform, Human Resources
Right
■ The QAS Diversity and Inclusion Strategy 2019-2022 clearly articulates our strategic objective, key focus areas and principles for diversity and inclusion.
The three key focus areas include:
1. leadership and accountability
2. attracting, developing and retaining talent
3. the QAS as an employer of choice.
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Do you know an everyday hero hiding in plain sight? Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) employees will soon have a chance to recognise their local heroes with the 2019 QBANK Everyday Heroes Awards.
Don’t miss your chance to nominate your everyday hero.
The awards, now in their sixth year, aim to honour Queensland’s frontline and public service workers, as well as youth aged 17 years and under, who devote their lives to bettering their communities and helping others in need, without asking for anything in return.
Nominations open on 1 July 2019. www.qbank.com.au/everydayheroes
No matter what role you do — from EMD to paramedic to admin support — in any location, anyone who is employed by the QAS is eligible for nomination. Awards are presented in six categories including: Achievement, Ownership, Dedication, Working Together, Excellence and the Young Everyday Hero Award. Winners receive prize money of $1000, with a further $1000 donated to a charity of the award recipient’s choice.
Winter 2019
d y skille l h g i h e eam ar ramedics t ) R A S (U pa Rescue ated team of at the d n a h d dic arc ban Se rts on our de to be deploye e r U S A nc po dy eQ rs of th ue. Jo Hales re ill set, are rea edical assista e b m e M c k m ical res heir unique s and provide n h c e t in ht ate ong wit locate, extric collapses. l a , o h w l o a hat, t d in structura f o p o r e d s trapp m i t c i v o t
ed… t r a e h t n i a f e th USAR: not for
If you have a fear of confined spaces or being underground, moving around in complete darkness or jumping to the ground from a high tower — albeit with a safety harness — then forget about applying for a position on the QAS USAR team. These are just some of the scenarios USAR members face in training so they are well-prepared to respond to significant events, be they natural or caused by human acts or omissions. Emergency Management Unit Inspector, State LASN Operations, Jason Dutton said being a USAR paramedic involved a ‘great deal of technical skill’. “This is not something that is suitable for everyone,” Jason said. “As well as the technical rescue aspect, USAR paramedics cannot be claustrophobic or have a fear of heights.”
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USAR paramedics are also trained to use rescue equipment ranging from heavy-lifting gear to concrete saws and drills, to rescue trapped patients in structural collapses, and woodworking equipment for shoring and tunnelling. The shoring equipment is used to make sure the passageways teams create are stable and safe to travel. They also have cameras and use acoustic and seismic listening devices. While deployments are not frequent, Jason said it was vital having paramedics on USAR teams. “It is extremely important that there are paramedics who can assess patients at the scene in a safe and structured process,’’ he said. “Having paramedics participate in the rescue, while also providing medical help on scene, is not only beneficial to the patients’ recovery, it also increases their chances of survival. It can take hours and even days for a patient to be rescued from a structural collapse.” As well as USAR paramedics participating in the search and rescue, assessment, treatment and retrieval of the patient on scene, they also have the responsibility of looking after the health and welfare of their other USAR team members. The QAS became affiliated with the Queensland USAR Taskforce in 2004 — one of two Australian United Nations International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG) accredited ‘Heavy’ Deployable USAR Taskforces. Each deployment is made up of 75 USAR personnel, six of whom are paramedics. The team can also reconfigure to a ‘Medium’ Deployable USAR Taskforce which includes 45 personnel, two of whom are paramedics. Jason said that, since joining the Queensland USAR taskforce, our members have been deployed to international incidents in Indonesia and the Christchurch earthquakes in 2011. Domestic incidents include the 2019 Townsville floods and Tropical Cyclones such as Debbie (2017), Marcia (2015), Yasi (2011) and Larry (2006). Jason said paramedics embarking on the first round of deployments needed to be on their way to the incident within two hours of being notified.
Winter 2019
FEATURE • Centrespread article title USAR insights
Photos: QAS Media / Jo Hales
e trained paramedics ar Our QAS USAR ed aspects l and specialis in the technica Combined e Queensland te Island. of rescue at th ademy at Why Ac es ic rv Se y Emergenc program -week training The initial four bers m QFES, with em is sponsored by ly ar ye dertake tworequired to un maintain workshops, to recertification quired re n accreditatio the skills and . gory 2 rescue for USAR Cate has 22 active QAS currently Jason said the year, ics. In May this USAR paramed selection took part in a 16 paramedics ming QFES sition on upco course for a po that close urses. He said USAR level 2 co r the coveted ers applied fo fic of AS Q 0 to 20 the 16 who se and, out of selection cour placed , eight will be were shortlisted urses. co o USAR level 2 on the next tw
“The applicants were put through real-life scenarios that test their strength and capabilities of working in tight zones,” Jason said. “Scenarios included crawling through a confined space tunnel under a rubble pile looking for patients.” They also had to crawl through 600mm and 450mm pipes and use a SKED stretcher (this provides patient protection and security and can be used for confined space, high angle or technical rescue and traditional land-based applications). Other activities included mapping a disaster site, site identification and being involved in a line-and-hail basket carry. Meanwhile, a ship hull exercise required participants to move from the bottom of the hull to the top utilising a Scott Mask and headlamp in limited visibility.
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Winter 2019
USAR
t-hearted, another Not for those who are fain olved carrying a 9kg aspect of the testing inv the training tower backpack to the top of reys high. A harness which is around six sto e they were lowered was then applied, befor to the ground. testing involved Jason said clinical skills and emergency et qu rni applying a soft tou dummy while bandage to the leg of a tective Equipment Pro al maintaining Person (PPE) requirements. our USAR paramedics “In real-life situations, rs on scene and work closely with docto y will assist with if the situation arises, the amputations,’’ he said. ployment is injured “When a USAR K9 on de treatment.’’ or ill, we also assist in the ements were constantly Jason said USAR requir the future, it is envisaged expanding and that, in m will be LARU-trained, that all officers on the tea dertake procedures and therefore able to un ing wounds. such as suturing and glu
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Dibley, officers Lisa ■ QAS USAR tton Du n so Ja nnett, Simon Be Hancock. rk Ma d an
Winter 2019
officers In early June, Jason and QAS USAR ther toge , cock Han Lisa Dibley and Mark were ics, med with two NSW USAR para States deployed to Indiana in the United ster disa l iona rnat to take part in an inte exercise. ing Held at the Muscatatuck Urban Train Centre, the United Nations INSARAG was certificated ‘Shaken Fury’ exercise (Federal d conducted with US FEMA-certifie s. team Emergency Management Agency) ent in Representing the QAS’s first involvem ken Sha , cise exer ing train l an internationa fulland etop tabl of s serie Fury involved a de nitu mag 7.7 a g latin simu scale exercises earthquake. rove The purpose was to evaluate and imp ce’ noti ‘noa a community’s response to urces earthquake, identifying gaps in reso very. reco ted and implementing a coordina search Our officers performed the roles of cise exer and bers mem crew and rescue set to d tifie iden ons less the control, with R USA QAS our all of sets skill benefit the re. futu the into and now bers team mem
Certificate IV in Health Care for PTOs
PTO professional pathway pilot expansion QAS Patient Transport Officers currently hold a Certificate III in Non-Emergency Patient Transport. The QAS Board of Management has identified the value in upgrading PTOs to a Certificate IV in Health Care. The aim of this program is to provide an educational pathway for existing QAS PTOs to develop their clinical knowledge and skills, by attaining a HLT41115 Certificate IV in Health Care. This development pathway will involve enhancing the underpinning knowledge of the PTO to undertake a higher level of patient care and ability to identify deteriorating patients. It will also provide for a broader range of capabilities in response to Inter-Hospital Transfers, supporting Local Area Assessment and Referral Units (LARU) with transport options, and disaster management situations. During the program officers will increase their knowledge of the human body and the respective ailments and injuries which affect the body systems. The workshop has been developed to lay down the fundamental concepts and build on them step-by-step across the four weeks. The pilot group started the program on 29 April 2019. During the four-week intensive workshop the officers participated in engaging activities and simulations to consolidate the theory and guidelines being taught during classroom sessions.
Thirteen PTOs took part in the pilot group. Below is a selection of their comments about their experience in the program: “A challenging endeavour but well worth the effort due to a professional and supportive education team.” / Marty Smith “An amazing course delivered by passionate instructors, allowing us to deliver further care to some of the most vulnerable members of the community.” / Nicole Ireland “An intense and challenging experience supported by understanding facilitators.” / Michael Byrnes “Fun and informative, I am impressed with the level of professionalism and trust we are being shown in this extension of our scope of practice.” / David Horrocks “Very excited that PTS Officers can now have an extended scope of practice. Absolutely enjoying the course and can’t wait to use my new skills out on road.” / Marina Giannaros “Always interesting and challenging. Grateful for the opportunity to learn and expand my skills.” / Andrew Kajewski
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“It’s an absolute game-changer for how the PTS will operate in the future.” / Constance Specher
Whyte Island campus:
■ Members of the pilot PTO group were: Susanne Bonner, Michael Byrnes, Paul Cox, Obira Dow, Graeme Fletcher, Marina Giannaros, David Horrocks, Nicole Ireland, Andrew Kajewski, Paul Schultz, Rachel Skarott, Martin Smith and Constance Specher.
Winter 2019
QAS officers land training exercise of a lifetime There will be no chance of the QAS having to wing it if an aeronautical incident unfolds in Longreach, reports Jo Hales, thanks to a recent ‘Turbulent Tourist’ training exercise which equipped our officers with the skills needed to respond to a real-life emergency involving a passenger aircraft. CISE
The multi-agency aircraft incident was
TTconducted in March with the Queensland Police N E L U Service, Queensland Fire and Emergency N E B UTL RBIS TTU Services and the Qantas Founders Outback UR R T Museum (QFOM) on a decommissioned Qantas S U I T OUR TO Boeing 747-238B, VH-EBQ “City of Bunbury”. EXER
The exercise scenario involved the jumbo jet striking major turbulence on an international flight from Indonesia to Australia, resulting in the plane having to make an emergency landing at an airport. ■ Exercise participants gathered for a group photo at VH-EBQ’s Number 3 Rolls-Royce RB211 engine following completion of the scenario drills.
Photo: QFOM
28
Central West LASN Manager Clinical Education Steve Robertson said that, following the mock mid-air drama, multiple patients required treatment and extrication from the plane. “The patients included those who received injuries during the turbulence and others who had experienced medical episodes and emergencies in different sections of the plane,’’ Steve said. However, the treatment and extrication of patients from the plane was not just limited to scenarios that may arise following an emergency landing. The exercise also covered complex access issues and space constraints which emergency services can encounter when responding to patients on an aircraft.
Above
■ View west towards town, showing the triple-tailed L1049 in the foreground and the B707 and Douglas DC-3 on the right. Background
■ The mighty 747 successfully landed on the relatively short, 1936 metre-long runway 04/22 on its final flight to Longreach on 11 November 2002. Photos: QFOM
Steve said the agencies taking part in the exercise needed to determine the best methods for treating and extricating the patients. “This was an excellent opportunity for QAS staff to develop and hone their clinical skills, scene management and paramedic safety in an unusual setting that had numerous extrication challenges,” he said. “The teamwork between QAS, the QPS, QFES and the QFOM was outstanding.
Winter 2019
“It strengthened the rapport we have with these agencies and built confidence in the Qantas museum staff.” Steve said the skills learned will be invaluable for QAS officers responding to a real flightrelated scenario, as well as any incident at the Longreach museum where the Boeing 747, along with the very first Qantas Boeing 707-138B — and the more recent addition of a vintage Lockheed L1049 Super Constellation — are ‘must see’ tourist exhibits among the musum’s growing collection. “The museum attracts thousands of tourists annually and the aircraft are among the star attractions,’’ Steve said. “If a visitor does collapse inside one of the planes, we are now well-versed at treatment and extrication from the venue.”
Photo: Qantas Founders Outback Museum
Right
Longreach lands exercise success
CISE
TT N E L U N E B L UT RBIS TTU UR RIST UR T OU TO EXER
29 29 ■ The 747’s huge forward cargo hold provided a number of Above
scenarios, including a collapsed patient who needed to be lowered from the sill of the door and another with a fractured ankle who needed to be lifted vertically through the access hatch in the floor of the main deck cabin.
Background photo: Airliners.net / Joe Corrigan
Above left and left column
■ Among the many drills undertaken throughout the interior of VH-EBQ, a patient on the upper deck behind the cockpit went into cardiac arrest and, after ROSC was achieved, needed to be extricated via the tight spiral staircase (a feature of the early ’100 and ’200 series 747s, one which needed careful use even by normally ambulatory adults, whether flight crew or First Class passengers accessing the lounge above the main deck cabin).
Photos: QFOM
Winter 2019
Hi there, I would just like to say a huge thank you to Jasmine (Curr) and Jess (Hummerston) from Caboolture Station.
THANK YOU :)
They transported me to hospital on 11 May. They were so nice, friendly, funny and caring. Good work girls.
Everyone has different levels of success. For me, success can never be achieved unless you have the desire to Just want to say a big thank you toKind the ladies regards. initiate it. The amazing work and commitment from staff (Corinne Wilkes, Kate Olive and Candice Rob, Bellmere that continuously results in appreciation letters we receive Boileau) that came to my house this morning Commissioner’s thanks from members of the public, makes me constantly you (July 19) for my little girl and the dispatch guy Notaware sure of how to pass on thanks but 9 May) There have been 305 appreciations en what accomplishments we have made as an organisation. night ( st -law Gw la I’ll try this way. I had 13HEALTH call in , (Jamaine Prieditis) who helped me stay very o received so far this year, which is Hell mother rt y a e m h d d me with an ambulance tonight due mydo an amazing job rte more thanhas a 30seen per an cent increase spIoreally calm.to They and This month influx of thank you letters, suspecte an tr a g in compared with the same period heart rate. suffer appreciated them being so 304last letters thistoyear to date and 609 letters and ho was wfantastic. yearreceived (1 January 31 May). . ble k emails of thanks sent to staff members. Thankfully I had Steven (Richardson) attac ledgea I have also had the pleasure g know ecca Kristie, Morningside in r a and two beautiful ladies (Ashleigh c d y n Reb r forwarding to for officers rteris a Your ve a Iofcannot thank110 youemails enough all your hard work. h C t u Smith and observer) attend. from patients, patients’ relatives, (Kevin ot on, b officers t only sp friends or associates, who have Absolute wonderful people. were no Russell Bowles ASM
Dodds)
been extremely grateful for the high QAS Commissioner level of service they have received. I am also pleased to advise that there are many more to follow.
s.
nk ra Thankfully, it just turned out to be ic. Tha , Barga fantast Stephen send a quick thank you to the anxiety, but they spent timeI want withto me in an effort to calm me down and (Chantal Greaney paramedics and Melissa treated me so well despite being I am always appreciative Dajic) who assessed my son and took him of you taking the time to understand run off their feet. to hospital on Wednesday night (July 12). It I would like to take the time to express our thanks
and meet the needs of your Hey was the first time I have ever had to call QAS, the just wanted to give a quick to various QAS for their attendance I am so grateful. Amazing people patients and theofficers community. shout out ambulance and I was quite nervous in doing so to you guys. I was admitted to and assistance at our unplanned home birthdoing a difficult job, just wanted Russell Bowles asm
to show my appreciation. on 4/9/2017. I commend the Triple Zero officer QAS Commissioner
Caboolture Hospital last Thursday night – worried I was overreacting and wasting the
(Julie Ricardo) for her efficiency and ability to Thank you.
paramedics time. The two ladies who attended
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
Kate, Burpengary East
wanted to pass on my thanks for the Cilento, all the while distracting myJust son with
arrived on scene approximately 5 minutes
30
(9 May) and the two paramedics (Sarah Arch and Katrina Milson) and the university student were fantastic.
following the birth of our son Woody and I would
careand they gave me. I can’t thank them Wiggles videos and calming a nervous
like to commend her professionalism, calm in
panicked mum. Thank you for such excellent
the situation and ability to treat me as a fellow
service and care!!! I don't believe this service
enough for making a stressful time a lot easier.
being rather than just a patient. She was caring,
Morayfield gets the recognition it deserves forBilly, all the work
compassionate and efficient. I appreciate Tammy
your paramedics do.
Thank you for saving my life.
arranging for our transfer through to Hervey Bay
Amanda,for Wellington Point I have two heart conditions which Hospital. I believe Arto (Hirsimaki) and another
Hi QAS, I’m a final year paramedic the most part behave themselves but just after midnight on 16 February due student. I’ll be on my last shift at from Hunters Hut through to Hervey Bay and to a heavy cold my Wolff ParkinsonMareeba tomorrow (28 April). White syndrome decided to flip out I found Arto to be very attentive to my needs Just want to make a shout out to all Just wantbpm to give a shout out to the LARU officer at this time considering I was having much and my heart was doing 150-220 the paramedics at Mareeba station who for over an hour. who attended my home on Monday (August officer (Andrew Rach) assisted with my transfer
difficulty. I hope our message can reach the
shared their knowledge with me over
You came to our place within 21). His name was Steve (Kliese) and we are the last two weeks. I have had the best a few minutes and were so calm in the Ipswich area. He was prompt, time caring,and learnt so much from not the important work you do I know we certainly and reassuring to my family and me. compassionate, empathetic, funny and themy list mentors Riley (Holden) and only needed the service on this day! Our little man My parents and Grandma were also goes on. He had me reassured within minutes. Richard (Green) (pictured with me) staying, so it was frightening for Woody is doing great settling in at home with his them to see, but the way you butthat everyone at the station. If myworked thanks could be passed to his OIC older sister Anna, feeding and sleeping well. together as a team in such a calm would be appreciated. Kimmer, Townsville manner was amazing. individual officers involved. Thank you to QAS for
Darren and Kate, Lakeside
36 QAS Insight
SPRING 2017
QAS_Insight_Magazine_SPRING_2017_DRAFT3.indd 36
i to Miam ke a trip dorable a m o t een able y two a I have b SA to meet m . I was e U a im uary. Florid for the first t 17 Febr n s o w t e r h a ep nep due to d e to my actually as delayed du been able w e The trip vent and I hav ou so much. y le a k n ic a d e h t m now it e k a to m 7 May Thea, 2
Nick (Burgess) talked to meDes, the whole Silkstone time asking me questions and he sat in the ambulance with me. A second car turned up too to assist. I was then taken to ER, cardioverted and spent the rest of February in hospital getting treated and recovering. I had a heart operation, ablation, on the 28th and am back at work now and trying to find my new normal. My husband and I would love to meet the guys (Nick as well as Bradley O’Neill and Greg Jones) to thank them, even the trainee guy was so fantastic and kind and I just knew it would be okay. Thank you, you really are superheroes to me and my family. Thea, Runaway Bay
Winter 2019
11/10/17 8:43 pm
THANK YOU
I wish to thank the lovely ambu (Maree McDou gall and Court lance girls ney Saint and Abby, a st u me from East dent) who had to collect St Friday mornin Family Doctor on g 10 May 2019 . They took me to Caboolture H ospital. They kept me calm an had great sense d informed. They also of humour. I am very grate ful to these gir ls. Please pass on my gratitude. Karen, Bellmer e
On 2 February 2018 my husband Alberto suffered a heart attack and drowned in the pool while exercising in the morning. He died and received CPR for an extended period. When paramedics arrived, they resuscitated him and took him to hospital where he spent most of last year recovering from heart surgery and undergoing rehab. We would like to express our gratitude to the paramedics (Emma Bourke-Matas, Bradley Sherlock, Joshua McGuigan, James Wylie, Liesel Cahalan, Jacob Serena, Torrin Nelson and Paul Gray) and the other people who were involved in Alberto’s care. He is doing well now. It is basically a miracle. Thanks heaps. Carolina, Rochedale
Hi, my name is Anthony and I unfortunately required your services on Saturday just gone (4 May) – I had a small accident and dislocated my shoulder in Dimbulah, Far North Queensland.
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 by post QAS Media Unit, GPO Box 1425 Brisbane QLD 4001
I just wanted to say thanks and let you know about the incredible service one of your staff is providing. The officer’s name was Adrian (Church) and he was absolutely awesome in the way he took care of me on the day. I was amazed when I received a call from him yesterday to check how I was and let me know that I had dropped my hat and sunglasses in the ambulance. He has even gone out of his way, at his own expense to post the items to me. If you are able to commend his efforts in some way it would be much appreciated as it is very obvious that he has a very good attitude towards his work and genuine care for people in his care. We are very lucky in Australia to have access to this level of care and service when required.
PS: our kid 31 s are very gr ateful to h ~ here is a ave their D family pict ad back ure of Nath Matthias (1 an (16), Co 1), myself a rina (13), n d Alberto. Carolina
Sincere thanks and keep up the good work. Cheers. Anthony, Atherton
https://www.wandersmiles.com/didnt-reach-everest-base-camp-nepal
Hey, I met your para medic trek Tengboch kers in e in April on the Ev Camp tra er es t Base il! They were super help ful as I’d I’ve given got Celluli you guys tis. a shout ou to say tha t on my b nk you! W log ell done to making it the team f to base ca or mp! Than ks again. Vanessa, Dubai
Winter 2019
Advancing trauma care together:
the Queensland Ambulance Service and Jamieson Trauma Institute Sixty-three years ago, Queensland’s first neurosurgeon, Dr Kenneth Jamieson, began a partnership with the Queensland Ambulance Transport Brigade to train officers in the treatment of road trauma injuries and establish a valuable research alliance. His dedication in sharing his medical knowledge with those on the frontline saw him colloquially known as the ‘Patron Saint of Ambulance Officers’. The contributions he made to the fields of medicine and public policy were many and varied, including authoring the widely acclaimed text, ‘A First Notebook of Head Injury’, pioneering surgical techniques and advocating for seatbelt, helmet and breathalyser testing legislation. The legacy of the collaboration he fostered, underpinned by the need to better understand and inform the treatment of traumatic injuries in both the pre-hospital and institutional environments, is proudly continued today through the work of the Jamieson Trauma Institute.
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Led by the Queensland Health Metro North Hospital and Health Service and supported by the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) and the Motor Accident Insurance Commission (MAIC); the institute was established in late 2017 and focuses on bringing together key stakeholders and integrating trauma services to re-conceptualise and revolutionise care. The Jamieson Trauma Institute (JTI) will provide substantial resources to build on the Queensland Statewide Trauma Plan (2006). The Jamieson Trauma Institute Director, Professor Michael Schuetz (Orthopaedic Trauma Surgeon), together with senior clinicians ensure the clinical relevance of the projects and are supported by a team of senior researchers, biostatisticians, epidemiologists and a rehabilitation chair. Together, their research focus includes: quality and data analytics, injury prevention and epidemiology, clinical trials, innovations, diagnostics and translation, education and training, virtual trauma, rehabilitation and outcome measurement. A central resource to facilitate this work is the Trauma Data Warehouse (TDW) Project, a key initiative of the Healthcare Innovation and Transformation Excellence Collaboration (HITEC) team in the Office of the Chief Clinical Information Officer, Queensland Health.
The TDW Project, focused on improving the quality and efficiency of patient care using an integrated digital health platform, was established in response to the desire expressed by clinical trauma leaders to access improved clinical intelligence. Members of the Jamieson Trauma Institute and QAS have been fundamental in informing the development of this resource. QAS Information Support, Research and Evaluation Director Associate Professor Emma Bosley said the inclusive approach taken by the institute was its greatest strength. “Its success will be ensured by honouring its namesake’s vision in furthering research alongside services like ours — to better inform the treatment of trauma, for the benefit of our patients,” Dr Bosley said. “Recognising pre-hospital data sets as a unique and vital component in evaluating the efficacy of clinical guidelines and treatment pathways, throughout the continuum of care is paramount. More often, researchers are utilising this valuable resource to help provide a fuller picture of a patient’s journey from the point of injury to definitive care.” Dr Bosley said ‘establishing trauma data linkage between our service, the numerous sectors within the hospital and health service districts, Queensland death registrations, and the Coroner under the auspices of the TDW and Jamieson Trauma Institute, is the first step in establishing a comprehensive evidence base for clinicians and researchers to examine the development of new and improved models of trauma care across the entire state’. “Delivering the right level of care to the right patients at the right time is the cornerstone of contemporary paramedicine practice and is often most critical when treating patients with traumatic injuries — that’s why the collaborative work with the institute is so important,’’ Dr Bosley said. “I look forward to the promising contributions our work together will produce,” Dr Bosley said.
Winter 2019
Associate Professor and MAIC Research Fellow Kirsten Vallmuur said the insights and perspectives gained from partnering with the QAS has been valuable in establishing the work of the institute. “While technology has surpassed what was possible for Dr Jamieson and his peers many decades ago, the principles underlying strengthening clinical practice, and ultimately patient outcomes via consultation and collaboration remain,” Associate Professor Vallmuur said. “Currently underway, one project I am a collaborator on which reflects this approach involves QAS and Retrieval Services Queensland and is titled ‘Identifying pre-hospital retrieval pathways and processes for road trauma patients in Queensland’. “Spanning two years and funded by MAIC, the Jamieson Trauma Institute’s sponsor; Professor Arthur ter Hofstede, Associate Professor Moe Wynn and Dr Robert Andrews from QUT’s School of Information Systems, alongside QAS research investigators Professor Steve Rashford and Associate Professor Emma Bosley, and Associate Professor Mark Elcock from Retrieval Services Queensland (RSQ), will examine potential improvements in emergency dispatch, asset deployment, protocols for aeromedical transport requests and trauma bypass. Associate Professor Vallmuur said that ‘using information recorded by QAS and RSQ, and during Queensland Health emergency department and hospital admissions episodes, investigators will apply specialised process mining techniques to model the range of different care and delivery processes; such as road versus aeromedical transport, or a combination of both’. “More than just uncovering the best logistics models for the care of this patient cohort, this study will uncover key factors influencing their survival outcomes, too,’’ she said. “We acknowledge the significant benchmarks QAS has set with respect to the delivery of expert and timely trauma care, and together, we look forward to building on this.”
ISRE report: Advancing trauma care
ISRE introduction The following paper highlights the importance to patient outcomes of the pre-hospital information provided in pre-notification advice. The accuracy of neurological status and vital signs are critical in determining the extent of injury and thus the level of trauma activation and the resources required. Queensland’s sophisticated trauma system relies upon standardised trauma protocols in the pre-hospital phase of care, including the provision of high quality pre-notification to receiving hospitals. The QAS has statewide guidelines in place to govern the threshold, timing and content of trauma pre-notification, supported by an electronic report form with pertinent variables included. Most tertiary facilities in Queensland adopt a version of the MIST (mechanism, injury pattern, signs, treatment) template to capture important pre-notification information over the phone to inform trauma activation and level.
Impact of pre-hospital trauma notification calls The objective of the study by James et al. 2018, published in the American Journal of Emergency Medicine, was to determine the accuracy of pre-hospital trauma notifications and the effects of inaccurate information on trauma triage. For trauma patients, the information communicated by EMS providers includes estimated time of arrival, mechanism of injury, site of injury, age, gender, vital signs and Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS).
Under-activated tier 1 traumas required 42.3% more emergent intubations (p=0.002) and had 32.7% more patients that required admission to the ICU (p = 0.003) compared to tier 1 activations with complete/accurate information. Tier 2 trauma patients with incomplete/inaccurate information also had a median delay of 512.5 minutes to the first operating room visit (p = 0.016) and a 3.9% increase in emergent intubations (p = 0.036).
Accurate and timely ambulance pre-notification informs decisions regarding trauma activation and level to prevent delays in the treatment of critically injured patients, improve outcomes, reduce mortality and facilitates proper hospital resource utilisation.
Of the pre-notifications, 80% of cases (N=1204) had incomplete or wrong information, most commonly missing GCS or vital signs, or an incorrect age. Patient alcohol use was significantly associated with incomplete/inaccurate pre-notification in both Tier 1 and Tier 2 activations. Tier 1 activations with incomplete/inaccurate prenotification were more likely to enact massive transfusion protocol (p=0.024) than Tier 1 activations with accurate pre-notification and were also more likely to have died in ED (p=0.044), suggesting a failure to accurately pre-notify due to the severity of the patient.
The study was conducted over a two-year period at a Level 1 trauma centre with three tiers of trauma activations, the urgency and severity increasing from tier 3 to tier 1. Data was collected from pre-notification forms on trauma activations that arrived via ambulance. Trauma activations with pre-notification were compared to those without notification, and forms were assessed for accuracy and completeness. A total of N=2186 cases were included in the study; n=1572 (71.9%) had pre-notification, and n=614 (28.1%) did not. Trauma activation was initiated after triage in the ED for 593 (27.1%) patients, who were initially under-triaged due to a lack of pre-notification. For both Tier 1 (p=0.002) and Tier 2 (p=0.032) activations, ED length of stay was significantly longer for cases with no pre-notification.
The majority of cases involved Basic Life Support (BLS) level care and being US-based involved several different EMS providers, which may explain some of the inconsistencies of pre-notification found in this study. However, these results are important in highlighting the importance of the communication and intersection between paramedics and the receiving hospital clinicians, and the potential impacts on patient outcomes post-handover.
[James MK, Clarke LA, Simpson RM, Noto AJ, Sclair JR, Douglin GK, Lee SW. Accuracy of pre-hospital trauma notification calls. American Journal of Emergency Medicine. 37 (2019); 620-626.]
ISRE comments The QAS is an essential component of the trauma system in Queensland, and the specialist pre-hospital care provided by paramedics impacts the morbidity and mortality of trauma patients through the state. Information collected by QAS paramedics is vital not only for the immediate and ongoing clinical care of the patient, but to enable integrated system-wide analyses of outcomes. The recently established Queensland Trauma and Burns Quality Assurance Committee (QTBQAC) within the Jamieson Trauma Institute will provide opportunities to identify improvements in the management of patients across the entire system. As a key collaborating partner with JTI, the QAS will contribute a fundamental role to the research and clinical practice changes that result from the collaborative work being undertaken.
Medical Director’s comments “It is incumbent for paramedics to accurately assess and triage major trauma patients. Early notification results in reduction in time to definitive care. This includes rural environments, where the OpCen will ensure an early call to Retrieval Services Queensland. Once again, vital signs and pattern of injury are demonstrated as being the most important factors for accurate risk stratification and should be the primary areas that paramedics communicate to receiving health staff. This is an important part of our trauma care that will affect patient outcomes.”
Winter 2019
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NZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • A C DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZ Y • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC D NZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • C DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZ Y • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC D NZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • C DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZ Y • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC D NZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • C DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZ Y • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC D NZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • C DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZ Y • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC D NZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • C DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZ Y • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC D NZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • C DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZ Y • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC D NZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • C DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZ Y • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC D NZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • C DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZ Y • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC D NZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • C DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZ Y • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC DAY • ANZAC D 34
Biloela
Holland Park
Jimboomba
Redcliffe
Robina
Theodore
Thursday Island
Turkey Beach
Winton
QAS officers attended services and marches around the state on Anzac Day to pay their respects to those who have served or are currently serving our country.
The freedoms we enjoy today have been hard earned and we shall always remember the sacrifices made by so many. Lest We Forget.
Winter 2019
ANZAC Square, Brisbane • Photo: Adobe Stock / Rafael Ben-Ari
ANZAC Day 2019
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Self-compassion ~ an antidote to stress and trauma Last year, Beyond Blue released its final report into the mental health and wellbeing of emergency first responders across Australia, writes Priority One staff counsellor John Murray. This is a landmark document drawing on the experiences of more than 20,000 personnel, including more than 700 from the QAS.
Above
■ Priority One Staff Counsellor John Murray.
A most notable finding was that, while less than one per cent of participants held stigmatising attitudes towards colleagues struggling with mental health conditions, a large number had self-stigmatising attitudes towards the same conditions indicated by “the amount of shame respondents had about their mental health condition (33%), the amount of burden they believe it causes those around them (32%) and avoiding telling people about their mental health condition (61%).” 1 This finding speaks to a potential lack of self-compassion, a factor now understood as important to psychological health and life satisfaction, but also to trauma recovery and resilience building.
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So, what is self-compassion and why is it so important to good mental health and wellbeing? The Dalai Lama defines 2 compassion as
“openness to suffering with the wish to relieve it.” It follows that self-compassion is the same attitude towards oneself in instances of personal suffering, feelings of inadequacy, failure, hurt and disappointment. Research into self-compassion3 has elicited its three main components: 1 Self-kindness: an internal acknowledgement (not denial or avoidance) and gentleness when confronted by one’s personal shortcomings.
“There is no sense in punishing your future for the mistakes of your past. Forgive yourself, grow from it, and then let it go.” ~ Melanie Koulouris
2 Common humanity: an understanding and acceptance of all one’s frailties and imperfections as being part of the human condition, common to all people and unavoidably intrinsic. 3 Mindfulness: openness to simply noticing one’s emotional states, and thus not repressing or denying them. Mindfulness is elemental to emotional intelligence. One’s emotions are internally acknowledged and allowed to be expressed appropriately but not become amplified or overly ruminated about which leads to self-pity and development of negative thinking patterns.
Winter 2019
Self-compassion is an aspect of the relationship we have with our self. It is easy to see the nature of relationships we have with others — be they compassionate, critical, judgmental, warm, understanding, etc. — through the dialogues we have with them. Similarly, we can get glimpses of the relationship with our self through the nature of our internal dialogues: our self-talk. Where this self-talk is hypercritical and fueled by shame and/or excessive internalised expectations (perfectionism, for example) then self-compassion is lacking. Notably, in the same way that harsh criticism from others undermines our self-confidence and wellbeing, harsh self-criticism and negative self-talk do the same thing. These dispassionate ways of thinking are the antithesis of self-compassion and actually trigger the same Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS) reactions in one’s body as if the harsh, judgmental and hypercritical messages were coming from another, hence the importance of developing a self-compassionate stance towards oneself. This leads into understanding the role of self-compassion in trauma recovery. Psychologically, traumatic events bring reactions of fear, anxiety and distress. These are all SNS responses, often termed the fight/flight/freeze stress responses. In traumatic stress reactions these responses manifest within three main clusters of symptoms: 1) hyper-arousal, 2) avoidance behaviours and 3) intrusive ruminations. Of note, these symptom clusters parallel the fight/flight/freeze responses as shown in the table, with intrusive ruminations reflective of the psychological ‘stuckness’ or inability to easily resolve the unacceptable or incoherent aspects of the traumatic experience. Our healthy stress responses have evolved to deal with acute external threats in the present. But PTSD symptoms are persistent overreactions in the present to triggers from the past, partly because the SNS was unable to be down regulated or come back to a resting state soon enough.
Priority One
Stress response
PTSD symptoms
Stress response turned inwards
Self-compassion (the antidote to the stress response turned inwards)
Fight
Hyper-arousal
Self-criticism
Self-kindness
Flight
Avoidance behaviours
Self-isolation
Accepting the human condition
Freeze
Intrusive ruminations
Self-absorption
Mindfulness
From Germer, C.K. Neff, K., (2014) Cultivating Self-Compassion in Trauma Survivors
The aetiology of PTSD evolving from multiple small traumatic experiences is largely due to the perpetuation of SNS responses with insufficient down regulation time. When we are unkind and hypercritical of our self (lacking self-kindness), when we cannot accept our sufferings, failings and mistakes (unaccepting of our humanness), when we avoid or repress feeling unpleasant emotions (not mindful), we are in essence being a threat to ourselves, as such dispassionate attitudes towards oneself serve to perpetuate our stress responses. The SNS system stays up-regulated and thus there is a consolidation rather than attenuation of traumatic symptoms. This is why self-compassion is an important antidote to all our stress responses, including traumatic stress responses. Going back to self-stigmatisation as identified in the Beyond Blue research, we can realise that those who self-stigmatise are practising harsh, unemphatic judgments towards themselves — for example: “I should be coping better”, “I am better than this”, “This illness means I am weak, inferior”, “I am not good enough”, “I should have done better”, etc. Such beliefs and thoughts only keep the SNS up-regulated, fueling and perpetuating their own stress reactions, they also serve to prevent or delay healthy help-seeking behavior when needed. Self-compassion is the antidote to such stress responses turned inward. Knowing this, the question arises as to how to develop better self-compassion. 1 Notice your self-talk. If this is NOT the way you would openly talk to a friend it is probably overly critical and judgmental? Try not to perpetuate the cycle by criticising yourself for your critical self-talk. Just know that this is something that can be changed and start becoming intentional about speaking kindly and empathically to yourself. It is often a good idea to model your self-talk as if you were talking to a very good friend.
https://self-compassion.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Germer.Neff_.Trauma.pdf
2 Practice forgiveness. You will make mistakes and errors. It is part of being human. Drop any perfectionism and excessive internal expectations. We all have shortcomings. No one is perfect. So, practice kindness and forgiveness towards yourself. This is not just about self-talk but also about what you do to value yourself, please yourself and take time for yourself. Forgiveness and self-kindness are not selfish – they are self-loving qualities. 3 Cultivate a growth mindset. Realise that most of our errors and shortcomings represent opportunities to learn and grow. A growth mindset is an optimistic mindset. It is the opposite of being pessimistic, self-defeating, despairing and helpless. A growth mindset more readily takes meaning and opportunity from challenges, and even if challenges cannot be met, there remains a greater internal sense of having been true to self in the struggle to overcome them. 4 Express gratitude. Focus upon what is good rather than the negative. This assists in cultivating optimism, healthy internal emotional states and affirming self-talk.
Where do I find help? 24-hour telephone counselling 1800 805 980 QAS Priority One Manager 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 3835 9923 Local Priority One Peer Support Officers or Counsellors See list in each QAS Station or on QASPortal
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5 Practise generosity. Being generous towards others is shown to foster a positive sense of wellbeing within the giver, provided you do not negate your own needs. Remember that one must be as kind to oneself as much as to others. 6 Practise mindfulness. This brings an internal focus onto the present rather than perpetuating ruminations about past shortcomings or future-focused anxieties. Doing so calms the SNS, lessens self-judgment and critical self-talk. Finally, realise that all the above take time and practice to become habitual ways of being. Self-compassion is a learned way of being with yourself.
“You yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection” ~ Buddha 4
References 1. Beyondblue Ltd. (2018) Answering the call: National survey. National Mental Health and Wellbeing Study of Police and Emergency Services – Final report. https://resources.beyondblue.org.au/prism/file?token=BL/1898 2. Dalai Lama (1995) The power of compassion. New Delhi, Harper Collins. 3. Germer, C.K. Neff, K., (2014) Cultivating Self-Compassion in Trauma Survivors https://self-compassion.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Germer.Neff_.Trauma.pdf 4. Ohlin, B., (2019) 5 steps to Develop Self-Compassion and Overcome Your Inner Critic. https://positivepsychologyprogram.com/self-compassion-5-steps/
Winter 2019
Recycling for simply BIG savings
Making life easier for our OICs and paramedics It all started with the simple clean-up of a training room. One year on, Metro South paramedics Mel Burns and Ruth Bishop are reviewing the life cycle of our on-road equipment and consumables – a self-initiated project with big benefits.
amdas
Mel and Ruth have investigated internal processes and gone out of their way to find out how other businesses run, including some of our major hospitals and other ambulance services both interstate and internationally. The aim: to minimise the waste, optimise time and efficiencies for our operational staff to get on with the job of patient care.
With a presentation to the Statewide Equipment and Vehicle Committee in February and the continued assistance and opinions from those that stand to benefit the most — the paramedics and OICs across the LASNs — Mel and Ruth are driven to ensure the end result is user-friendly and practical. In addition, they are aiming to address the layout of storerooms and future builds to come in line with the vehicle layout. Working closely with FEU, WHS and Infection Control they are looking to standardise the flow of the storeroom and ensure health and work standards are met. This again should have time-saving benefits for paramedics, making items easier to locate (particularly those restocking from an alternate station) and get back on road sooner.
Through these learnings, they are now looking to implement some simple changes which they believe will have a big impact on the way we manage our stations’ stores. Whilst initially concentrating on Brisbane Metro and a select number of stations, they hope to roll out the benefits to all stations across the state, standardising and centralising the way we manage our stores. The aim is to reduce unnecessary orders, regulate deliveries and reduce waste which ultimately ends in landfill.
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Mel and Ruth, who are based respectively at Birkdale and Carina Ambulance Stations, explained their drive to start the initiative. “I had always been interested in processes and could see that with a few changes we could really streamline our business and pass on the benefits elsewhere,’’ Ruth said. As well, Mel said, ‘I felt we could do better, and that change could occur on a big scale, making both operational and environmental impacts’. “I knew of many smaller projects that had started in this area and was hoping to continue the good work that had already commenced and bring them into a wider scope — the life cycle,” Mel said.
They are quick to admit it is a big job. And whilst clearly motivated to achieve their aim, they know it depends on staff supporting them. During their journey Mel and Ruth have had the opportunity to meet and share knowledge with many QAS staff, bringing together some great ideas for a collaborative approach to the solution. Departments such as FEU, QASEC, EMU, WHS, IT and Infection Control are but a few that have been involved in the project to date.
Winter 2019
Another important part of the project is the move towards more technologically advanced systems to make ordering and tracking of stock more visible. This will empower OICs, enabling easier transfers of overstocks between stations and improved reporting. Once the process improvements have been made then the move towards an automated system can begin — which is where the big cost savings will benefit the QAS and staff on the ground. An inventory tracking system will result in improved services to our patients, more efficient use of resources and more support for our frontline paramedics. Mel and Ruth are excited to see their work continue and with the understanding and continued contribution from staff look forward to passing on some benefits and savings to our staff and organisation.
A 30-year-old male was found unconscious with an electrical cord around his neck, having attempted self harm after a situational crisis at home. Paramedics were promptly called.
A HARU CCP attended and in conjunction with the other CCP present performed a rapid sequence induction (RSI) with propofol, fentanyl and rocuronium. The RSI was uneventful and the patient was transferred to hospital. The patient went to ICU for 48 hours and was then transferred to the ward, making a full recovery.
CASE
Upon arrival of the ACP and CCP crew, the patient was: • GCS 3/15 with fixed pupils • a partially obstructed airway • Respiratory rate of 12 and • SpO2 90% on room air. Other observations were BP 130/80 HR 100 and a normal BSL. Obvious ligature marks were present around the neck.
The initial interventions included high flow supplemental oxygen, nasopharyngeal airways, intravenous cannulation and extrication to the ambulance.
A 30-year-old male found unconscious with an electrical cord around his neck.
High Acuity Response Unit Report
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AUDIT
QAS Medical Director Dr Stephen Rashford
1. Prior to RSI, always assess the airway risk in this scenario – look for swelling, haematoma, surgical emphysema and stridor. Despite these potential issues, our experience is that these patients have minimal added risk on a standard RSI. 2. Despite the real danger of significant hypoxic injury, approximately 50% of patients with a GCS 3 or 4 make a full recovery in this scenario. It is impossible to prognosticate and aggressive management should occur. The principles should follow those of treating a significant brain injury – preventing secondary injury/insult. 3. Most “hanging patients” are a pure asphyxiation issue. These patients do not need C spine immobilisation unless they have fallen as part of the hanging. If there is doubt, of course defer to immobilisation. 4. The Chest X-ray demonstrates non-cardiogenic pulmonary oedema – note “bat’s wing” pattern of the infiltrate. All ventilated patients should have PEEP anyway. It can be titrated upwards in certain sub-groups. This would have explained part of the initial hypoxia that was present. 5. Consider pre-optimisation with CPAP prior to the RSI in hypoxic patients – dependent on the clinical scenario of course.
Winter 2019
Reunite furthers rehabilitation journey
Matching a face to the echoing voice … Ten years after a harrowing traffic crash, Tracey Evers is still courageously battling the physical and mental repercussions of a split-second moment on an Indooroopilly street. Tracey recently sat down with Medical Director Dr Stephen Rashford in another step forward in her rehabilitation journey, writes Matthew Stirling. What started as a routine ride home on a December afternoon in 2008 ended as a life-defining event for Tracey when a car suddenly turned in front of her moped. Tracey collided with the vehicle’s rear, where the initial impact and the momentum of her fall inflicted severe traumatic leg injuries as she landed on the ground. In the following nine minutes before paramedics arrived, 22-year-old Tracey remained in shock but alert. A bystander was even able to locate and hold her phone as a distraught Tracey received reassurances from her mother in Townsville.
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The QAS response consisted of two ACP units, a CCP, SOS and Dr Rashford. The attending teams were presented with limb-threatening injuries to the left leg in a conscious young patient in extraordinary pain. This included an open femur fracture, pelvic, shoulder and rib fractures and severe degloving injuries to Tracey’s shin, knee and thigh.
Tracey was administered ketamine before the team applied limb splinting and a SAM pelvic splint, navigating the open angulated and rotated femur fracture, prior to transport to the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital. This would be her home for the next two months. Persevering through more than 35 surgeries to repair and rehabilitate her injuries, Tracey is reminded daily of the ordeal both physically and mentally. So vivid are her memories of the incident, Tracey can recall the sky’s particular shade of blue as she lay on the ground. These distinct memories have compounded the effects of Tracey’s Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) stemming from the crash; a condition she works hard to overcome. Turning to volunteering as a method of assisting her longterm recuperation, Tracey was forced to relinquish roles at the Queensland Children’s Hospital and Hummingbird House after a series of crippling PTSD attacks triggered by the sirens of ambulances approaching the hospital.
Winter 2019
One constant flashback is the clear voice of a man reassuring her and explaining what was occurring through the flurry of noise and movement around her. This voice led Tracey to the Kedron Emergency Services Complex more than 10 years later. On April 15, 2019, Tracey and her parents met with Dr Rashford, who was eager to witness her ongoing recovery first-hand and attempt some form of closure for Tracey. She credits the paramedics who assisted her in 2008 as playing a vital role in saving her leg, and while she has met with many of the officers over the years, the identity of the man she knew only as ‘Dr Steve’ alluded her.
Dr Rashford praised Tracey’s commitment to recovery and commended her focus on caring for others who had formed a large part of her life through volunteering. “I completely admire Tracey, who faced a severe lifethreatening injury and has been challenged by the very long road to recovery. Despite many setbacks, her courage is inspirational and I am sure she will do great things in her life,” he said.
“Even 10 years on, my admiration for him and the others at the scene has not diminished,” Tracey said.
“What has also struck me is the immense support her parents have given during this time. Spending time with them, I quickly could see where Tracey got her courage, compassion and determination from. I found the meeting extremely beneficial as I reflected not only as a clinician, but as a parent of two young women.”
“I will always be grateful for the support they gave me not just with their medical expertise but their genuine kind, caring and reassuring approach.
Crucially, Tracey left the encounter able to match a face with the voice that has echoed with her for so long.
“Despite the pain, hardship and mental struggle the crash brought into my life, it also provided many positive experiences I would never have had otherwise.”
■ Dr Rashford flanked by Tracey, on his left, and her parents at the enlightening reunion.
New occupational violence campaign
RESPECT OUR STAFF: no excuse for abuse Three years on from the Paramedic Safety Taskforce Report, the QAS has undertaken a large amount of work around occupational violence but, as Andrew Kos reports, it remains a hot topic and a new campaign has been created to once again raise public awareness. Being spat on, sworn at, verbally abused or physically assaulted is not part of the job description and should never take place — and that is the message being highlighted in a new QAS campaign targeting occupational violence.
Along with the videos, new posters and stickers have been created to place in all new vehicles and in community locations such as hospitals, businesses and sporting clubs. Assistant Commissioner Townsville LASN Robbie Medlin was heavily involved in getting the campaign up and running and said that, while serious acts of physical assault were rare, actions such as verbal abuse or intimidating behaviour also adversely affected staff.
Earlier in the year, QAS Media travelled to Townsville LASN to shoot a series of interviews with staff about their experiences with physical and verbal assault. Paramedics Naomi O’Callaghan, Belinda Boyle and Sean Cottrell, and EMDs Corey Grainger and David Beil, spoke passionately about the effect occupational violence has had on their careers.
“Some acts of violence require long-term physical and mental recovery and can have a devastating impact on our staff and their families,” he said. “A hostile environment impedes us from completing our job efficiently and safely, so that is why we are urging people to please respect our staff — there is no excuse for abuse.”
The interviews were turned into a series of short videos that have been gaining traction in the community through social media. A media launch at Kirwan Ambulance Station in April widely publicised the new campaign, which encourages the community to do their bit in respecting our staff and spreading the ‘no excuse for abuse’ message.
Above
Below
■ One of the powerful new posters reminding of the person behind the uniform.
■ Naomi O’Callaghan’s video appearance previewed at Kirwan Station in April 2019.
Townsville LASN has also implemented a local Paramedic Safety Management Committee to formulate further strategies to target occupational violence.
Winter 2019
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Station Profile: Mount Isa In his song ‘City of Mount Isa’ Slim Dusty muses of the old black road from the coast being hot and long with the town an oasis in this big red endless land. As Andrew Kos reports, the staff of Mount Isa can certainly relate to that. It is the heart of the north-west and a town known across the country by name, but only those who have actually travelled to or lived in ‘The Isa’ have a true appreciation of the place. Mount Isa Station has a long and historic connection to the town, with the QAS having a presence there for the best part of a century. There’s barely a more iconic location than the Mount Isa Mine and the QAS Mount Isa Station is situated directly across the road from it with the mine’s exhaust stacks casting shadows across it. With mining so prevalent, all officers are mine-trained to respond to underground emergencies. Officially opened in 1958, the station had a refurbishment in 2002 and also houses the LASN office, including LASN Manager Superintendent Jessika Brind and a Clinical Education Unit. A number of couples are also based at the station and, as such, a family-friendly roster is prioritised for staff.
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Mount Isa officers predominantly work within the city and surrounding areas but can be called upon to respond as far north-west as Camooweal and south to Dajarra.
“You need to be able to think on your feet and forward plan,” Craig said. A good relationship with the Hospital and Health Service sees officers attending theatre days and other multi-agency training opportunities. Weather also plays a big part in the way officers go about their job. In the midst of summer, temperatures can top out in the mid-40s and Craig says that changes the way crews respond to jobs, particularly protracted incidents in open locations. “We don’t really have the ability to swap out crews after several hours, so we need to think about how we stay safe and hydrated.” In August every year the town’s population more than doubles as the annual and world-famous Rodeo rolls into town. During this period the LASN is bolstered with staff from the Emergency Management Unit and a Tactical Medical Centre is set up to meet demand. Mount Isa also has a strong Indigenous connection and the two Indigenous Cadets based there continue to build relationships with the Kalkadoon people. A young and enthusiastic Local Ambulance Committee also contributes to community engagement and education. Last year the LAC rolled-out a renewed CPR awareness push, targeting shows and events in the region.
Incidents range from road trauma, due to the high number of road-trains, through to medical cases on isolated station properties. Acting OIC Craig Hansen says the station provides a great opportunity for professional growth and exposure to different ways of thinking because of the differences to the metro environments.
Winter 2019
All in all, Craig says, Mount Isa is a rewarding place to work and a great place to live. “People sometimes say they are only here until they can get a job elsewhere but most end up loving the place. There is just something about it; I came here for six weeks in 2009 and have been here since.” As Slim Dusty sang: “Yeah, the first mate that I met here in the Isa, took my hand and said ‘mate, welcome home’.”
STATION PROFILE • Mount Isa
Previous page, below left
Above
■ Station officers gather for a group photo in the Church Street garage.
■ View from the station’s balcony of the mine site on the western side of Railway Avenue.
Previous page, upper right
■ North West LASN Manager Superintendent Jessika Brind and Mount Isa Station Acting OIC Craig Hansen.
Palliative wedding care
Background photo: Adobe Stock / Chris Ison • Mount Isa 2019 photos: QAS Media / Andrew Kos
The care and compassion of Mount Isa staff was recently on display when officers Sarah Stone and Bianca Anderson volunteered their free time to transport a palliative care patient to her wedding. After decorating the ambulance with fairy lights, Bianca and Sarah picked up cancer patient Julie Beaumont from Mount Isa Hospital and drove her to her wedding and reception venue. After the celebrations the crew wheeled Julie’s stretcher through a ‘sparkler’ guard of honour family and guests had formed before Julie tossed her bouquet from the back of the ambulance. Bianca and Sarah said Julie was extremely happy and grateful on the trip back to hospital.
■ The 1958-vintage QATB Station has well stood the test of time as the 2019 Google Street View image, from about the same location on the corner of Church Street and Railway Avenue, of the refurbished property indicates.
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“It is just such a rewarding experience: we come into this job to help patients and sometimes there is nothing that we can do except give our time, so if I can do that than I am more than happy,” Bianca said. “Very humbling, probably the nicest moment of my career, I’d say,” Sarah added.
MOUNT ISA: FAST FACTS Location
1 Church Street, Parkside 4825. Officially opened on 29 March 1958.
LASN: North West
Mount Isa Station is one of seven permanent stations in the North West LASN which is managed by Superintendent Jessika Brind.
Complement
Total 26.48 permanent staff • OIC (acting): Craig Hansen • 24.48 Paramedics • 2 Indigenous Cadets (technicians)
Vehicles
9 vehicles in total: • 3 x Mercedes Sprinter Van Acute / single stretcher • 1 x Mercedes dual stretcher Acute • 2 x Toyota Landcruiser Modular • 3 x Toyota Troop Carrier
Winter 2019
Toddler Hunter Allister is lucky to be alive after surviving a dingo attack on Fraser Island over Easter. His parents, Luke and Sarah, returned to the island to thank the paramedic who saved his life. Emma O’Connor reports. Below
■ Hunter’s head injuries.
Photo: 60 Minutes
You would not know it by looking at his happy face, but 14-month-old Hunter has been through quite an ordeal for someone so young. Just a toddler, Hunter underwent surgery in Brisbane after he survived a dingo attack while on a family holiday on Fraser Island. Hunter, along with his parents and sister, were fast asleep in their camper trailer when a dingo brazenly popped a clip on the side and pushed its way through a gap in the canvas on Good Friday, 19 April.
“When I assessed Hunter he had quite significant blood loss, a deep laceration behind his left ear, and several lacerations on the back of his skull,” Ben said. “Anytime there are paediatrics involved and there’s significant blood loss, you are always concerned. After assessing Hunter, I irrigated the wounds and then applied a trauma bandage to his head and neck.”
Mum Sarah said she woke around midnight to a cry. “His cry went from being inside the camper to outside,” Sarah recalled. Luke remembers the night vividly. “I just ran. I didn’t think. The dingo had him by the back of the neck and was pulling him into the bush. “I just ran and yelled,” Luke said. “I swore and I yelled very loudly. I picked him (Hunter) up and then realised there was a lot of blood.”
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■ ACP2 Ben Du Toit recounts the day’s events on camera for Charles Wooley.
Sarah applied a cloth to the back of Hunter’s head to stem the flow of blood as grandmother Shaurne called Triple Zero (000) before the family jumped into their vehicle and drove to a location in Eurong.
“I was driving and Luke was sitting in the back holding Hunter,” Sarah said. “I remember his cries starting to fade and I honestly thought when we got there he wouldn’t be there.”
Background
■ A fearless dingo made an appearance during the 60 Minutes filming of the Allisters’ reunite with Ben.
Advanced Care Paramedic Ben Du Toit was working the night shift on Fraser Island when he was notified that a toddler had been bitten on the neck and dragged into bushland by a dingo. Ben drove lights and sirens to Eurong where he met up with the Allister family.
Winter 2019
With Ben monitoring Hunter in the ambulance vehicle, a QPS officer drove the QAS car to the island’s helipad to a waiting helicopter where Flight Critical Care Paramedic Michael Porter oversaw his treatment until they arrived at Hervey Bay Hospital.
Photos: QAS Media / Michael Augustus except as noted
On-camera reunite on Fraser Island
On-camera reunite on Fraser Island
Hunter was later transferred to the Queensland Children’s Hospital where he underwent surgery on his fractured skull. Ben has 10 years of experience as a paramedic, with 18 months on Fraser Island, and this was not his first incident treating a patient who had been attacked by a dingo.
Fast-forward two months and Hunter’s recovery is going well. The family recently took up the opportunity to return to Fraser Island to meet with Ben and thank him in person.
Left
It was an emotionally tough trip back to Fraser Island and Charles Wooley from Channel Nine’s 60 Minutes program accompanied the family on their return for a story which aired recently.
Below
Ben took Charles on a tour of the location where he treated Hunter, and even applied first aid to Charles himself after he cut his hand. Thankfully, just a band-aid was required.
■ Much-improved Hunter with relieved parents Sarah and Luke.
Photo: 60 Minutes
■ Just a scratch: Charles Wooley found himself in need of some minor first aid during filming; fortunately, help was close at hand!
The reunion itself between Ben and the Allisters was emotionally charged. “A lot of tears were flowing, and I was fighting back tears myself,” Ben recounted. “It was good to see them again and catch up. It’s always good to see a good outcome in something that could’ve been much, much worse.”
Left
■ A pair of QAS bears helps make things better as well: ACP2 Ben Du Toit in his emotional reunite with Sarah and Luke Allister.
This shared experience has brought the Allister family closer together, and Luke and Sarah are each other’s rock.
“I have been to several dingo bites on the island but nothing as severe or as traumatising for the family,” Ben recalled. “It was definitely serious. Based on the circumstances, it could have been much worse. The family was really lucky thanks to Luke’s quick actions.”
Thankfully, it has a happy ending and little Hunter seems unaffected by the horrendous ordeal he and his family went through over Easter.
Winter 2019
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Happenings The QAS successfully transitioned from the aged Lattice payroll system to the new Aurion payroll system on 4 March. Aurion has provided employees greater visibility of payroll information, including access to Employee Self Service (ESS), giving easier access to and control over personal information. Staff have easily adapted to the system, and the process improvements Aurion has brought. Aurion support resources will continue to be available to staff, and will be located on the QAS Portal, under Human Resources, Payroll or by contacting your LASN HR practitioner.
Family Fun Day There were lots of smiles from youngsters when our QAS officers attended a family fun day at Kurilpa Point Park in South Brisbane in April. The event, held during Autism Awareness Month, was in support of the AEIOU Foundation for Children with Autism.
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In April we enjoyed a visit by Vanuatu paramedics George and Jerome, who spent time with our crews and BRT, observing how the QAS operations differ to theirs back home.
Notice something different about our Bicycle Response Team officers? In May, BRT officers on the Gold Coast and in Brisbane had their bikes fitted with vibrant yellow panniers.
In May there was a visit by members of Urgences-santé Quebec — the QAS equivalent which services the islands of Montreal and Laval in Canada.
The new panniers provide improved equipment storage and visibility.
Nicola, Valerie, Emmanuelle and Johanne’s meet and greet included a chat with some of our HARU officers and a ride-along to observe how they respond to jobs.
Closing the Gap Mornington Island paramedic Troy had quite the eager audience as he taught valuable life-saving skills to a keen audience of youngsters at a Closing the Gap day in April. As well as going through CPR practice with groups of enthusiastic participants, Troy demonstrated various pieces of equipment and conducted general heath checks.
Winter 2019
HAPPENINGS • Winter 2019
The countdown is on for the 2019 LAC state conference in the beautiful city of Toowoomba this September. The Toowoomba LAC, led by President Rosemary Morley, is thinking outside the box to ensure this year’s conference is different to past ones. The event will include a special celebrity guest speaker, guaranteed to provide an exciting and uplifting experience for all attendees. Discount registration prices are valid until the end of June. Congratulations to the Longreach LAC which celebrated its 25th anniversary in March! An awards ceremony recognised long-serving members Betty Farraher and Helen Barrett, who have five years of service and Ian Merritt, for his 25 years of service!
Flight paramedic training This picture shows a group of our ACPs taking part in their Flight Paramedic development training ahead of their deployment to Thursday Island. The training covered aircraft orientation and safety and airway management, all with experienced pilots, aircrew and flight paramedics. This training is designed to assist and prepare paramedics for the unique working environment to come.
Tony celebrates 40 years In April, highly regarded QAS clinician Tony Hucker celebrated a career milestone – 40 years of providing care to patients across three Australian state ambulance services. Tony has worked for the QAS for more than 20 years. In his current role as Director of Clinical Quality and Patient Safety, Tony ensures patients across Queensland receive safe, timely and world class pre-hospital care.
Emergency services team effort A fantastic effort from our Monto paramedic, QPS, QFES, park rangers and members of the public who assisted a woman who had fallen while hiking at Cania Gorge. The crew carried the patient around two kilometres over rugged and slippery terrain before the Lifeflight rescue chopper transported her to hospital in a stable condition.
Winter 2019
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Farewells
Movers and Shakers
Notes Reflects activities during the period from 1 March to 31 May 2019.
Years of Service
NAME
Position Title
Division / Location
Greg Alexander
Paramedic
46
Central Queensland LASN
Mark Ricks
Paramedic
33
Central Queensland LASN
Peter Sutton
Paramedic
30
Metro North LASN
Glen Bowman
Paramedic
28
Wide Bay LASN
Timothy Frodsham
Local Ambulance Committee member – Gympie
27
Sunshine Coast LASN
Karen Johnson
Paramedic
27
Central Queensland LASN
Judy Rowell
Emergency Medical Dispatcher
24
State OpsCen
Danielle Cramp
Emergency Medical Dispatcher
20
State OpsCen
Phillip Barber
Snr Coordinator Workforce Planning
15
Darling Downs LASN
Kurt Butterworth
Patient Transport Officer
15
Darling Downs LASN
Maria Vogrincic
Local Ambulance Committee member – Silkwood
14
Cairns & Hinterland LASN
John Ickiewicz
Business Support Officer
13
Darling Downs LASN
Wayne Lashmar
First Responder
13
Sunshine Coast LASN
Joyce Lashmar
First Responder
13
Sunshine Coast LASN
Richard Smith
Paramedic
11
Metro North LASN
Duncan Merrell
Patient Transport Officer
11
Gold Coast LASN
Rodney McGregor
Paramedic
11
Sunshine Coast LASN
Andrea Savage
Snr HR Consultant
10
Cairns & Hinterland LASN
John Clark
Paramedic
10
Gold Coast LASN
Appointments
48
Notes Appointments made during the period 7 January to 30 April 2019.
NAME
Position Title
Appointed date
Location
Jayson Hacker
Clinical Deployment Supervisor
7-Jan-19
Southport OpCen
Lucinda Clarke
Clinical Support Officer
7-Jan-19
Sunshine Coast LASN
Trevor Southern
Clinical Support Officer
4-Feb-19
Mackay LASN
Aaron Minos
Principal Advisor HS & IM
4-Feb-19
Head Office Kedron
Anthony Cowen
Clinical Deployment Supervisor
11-Feb-19
State OpCen
Terence Dickson
Clinical Support Officer
14-Feb-19
Gold Coast LASN
Sandra Brightwell
Principal Complaints Officer
14-Feb-19
Head Office Kedron
Danielle Ironside
Specialist Pharmacist
18-Feb-19
Head Office Kedron
Renae Veldman
Officer in Charge
25-Feb-19
Wide Bay LASN
Raymond Clarke
Executive Director Workforce
4-Mar-19
Head Office Kedron
Kylie Cooke
Manager Clinical Education
4-Mar-19
Wide Bay LASN
Christopher Draper
Director Operations
11-Mar-19
Gold Coast LASN
Matthew Meister
Officer in Charge
11-Mar-19
Metro North LASN
Renee Kane
Senior HR Consultant
11-Mar-19
Head Office Kedron
Mandy Barr
Officer in Charge
8-Apr-19
North West LASN
Orion Joyce
Officer in Charge
8-Apr-19
Townsville LASN
Clark Magele
Chaplain
15-Apr-19
Staff Support - Priority One
Lea Kettle
Manager OpCen
15-Apr-19
Rockhampton OpCen
Simon Hansson
Clinical Deployment Supervisor
22-Apr-19
Maroochydore OpCen
Jodie Green
Director Service Planning
29-Apr-19
Head Office Kedron
Winter 2019
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