kentucky board of ems - Kentucky EMS Connection

KENTUCKY BOARD OF EMS
QUARTERLY NEWS
Volume 2, Issue 4
December, 2009
FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S DESK
BY BOB HAMMONDS
Wow! It has been a busy 4 months since I came to KBEMS on
August 1. During this time, I have been able to meet many of you,
but know that I have only begun. I hope over the next year or so to
meet many more of you. The KBEMS staff has been very busy
working on all the recertification applications that have been pouring in. We are on track to have everyone recertified “if” the application is in the office prior to our closing on December 18th.
The KBEMS office will be closed from the end of business on December 18, 2009 until January 4, 2010. The KCTCS offices will be closed and no one will be
answering their office phones. I will be checking e-mail and the cell phone regularly.
On December 1st, over 180 people attended a forum on the implementation of KEMSIS, the
data collection system for KBEMS. Don’t forget to send me any suggestions for KEMSIS so
that I can prepare a report for the KBEMS Board of Directors’ Meeting on January 14th, at the
KCTCS offices in Versailles. It is very important to let your voice be heard.
2010 is fast approaching and it is time to begin thinking about where we are going with KBEMS.
Two things that will be very important to me in 2010 are getting a Line of Duty Death (LODD)
Benefit for EMS workers and starting to work on the EMS memorial service and/or site. Both
are long overdue. LODD will require action by the Kentucky legislature. You may be called
upon to support legislation with calls, e-mails, letters, and face-to-face meetings with your senators and representatives.
Internally, KBEMS will be looking for a new Director of Education and Training and a new North
Central Liaison/Inspector. Jay Cason and Keith Smith are leaving KBEMS on January 4th and
the search for replacements will begin soon. A new attorney is on board now and is getting
acquainted with our statutes and regulations. Pam Duncan started work at KBEMS on December 7th and is eager to tackle the legal issues KBEMS is addressing.
KBEMS will also be seeking to find ways to provide better service to the many First Responders, EMTs, Paramedics and EMS agencies in Kentucky who do such a great job for the citizens
of the Commonwealth. Please send questions, suggestions and examples of service “Above
and Beyond” the call of duty to me at kbems@kctcs.edu. I know that every day there are examples of courage and sacrifice in the EMS community. Let me know of them. I want to start recognizing them and thanking them.
I also want to wish each and every one of you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
For those of you working on the holidays, my prayers are with you for a safe and rewarding
shift. Please know that many people respect and admire the sacrifices you make this time of
year.
GOVERNOR APPOINTS BOARD MEMBERS
Governor Steve Beshear has appointed the following to serve on the KBEMS Board:
James D. Nickell, Judge Executive, Rowan County, Representing County Judge Executives
Terry L. Dossett, Director of Operations, Yellow Ambulance,
Representing Licensed Class I Private Ground Ambulance Services
Michael P. Sutt, EMT, Eastwood Fire District, Representing EMT-Basic
Jay Box, KCTCS, Representing EMS Educators
from a KY College providing EMS Educational Programs
300 NORTH MAIN STREET
VERSAILLES, KY 40383
(859) 256-3565
(866) 97 KBEMS
Fax: (859) 256-3128
www.kbems.kctcs.edu
Comments or questions
concerning this newsletter may be
addressed by contacting:
SHARON PIERCEALL atsharon.pierceall@kctcs.ed
or calling
(502) 330-9006
Inside this issue:
KBEMS Board News
2
Note from the Judge
2
Meet Pam Duncan
2
KAPA News
3
Greetings
3
Conference Pics
4
“Above & Beyond”
5
Chairman’s Award
6
Medical Director’s Corner
6
Regional News
7
KY EMS Education
8
More Educational News
9
HPP Grant
9
News from the Services
9,
10 & 11
Page 2
Volume 2, Issue 4
MORE BOARD NEWS
Governor Beshear re-appointed the following to serve on the KBEMS Board:
Steve English, Ohio County, Representing First Responders
Dr. Glenn Franklin, University of Louisville, Representing Trauma Surgeons
Joseph Prewitt, Nelson County, Representing Volunteer Staff, Licensed Class I Ground Ambulance Services
Wenda Owen, Board Member Representing Citizens-At-Large, has recently accepted the position of Executive Director of the
Kentucky Lions Eye Foundation. The mission of the Foundation is to prevent and cure blindness through its support of research
projects, eye clinics, vision screenings, and eye banks throughout the Commonwealth.
2010 MEETING SCHEDULE
KENTUCKY Board of Emergency Medical Services
Location:
KCTCS/KBEMS System Office
300 North Main Street
Versailles, KY 40383
Start Time:
1:30 p.m., (local)
Dates:
Thursday., January 14, 2010
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Thursday, September 9, 2010
A Note from Judge Rothenberger
Greetings from Shelby County! As you have probably heard by now, my reappointment to the Board did not go as planned. But not to be disheartened;
when I look back over the past several years, I see that we have accomplished
so much and moved EMS to yet another level for pre-hospital care.
The move to KCTCS has shown flashes of great things to come in the future
under the leadership of Dr. McCall, Director Bob Hammonds and the KBEMS
staff. These individuals share my passion for EMS and only want the best and
to develop KBEMS as a role model for other EMS state agencies and organizations.
We have laid the foundation for the EMT-Advanced program, data collection
system and mass casualty response. Our Board is loaded with dedicated folks that live, breathe and eat EMS every day of their
lives. TOGETHER we can continue to advance and promote EMS. What lies ahead are the goals that we set for our organization and don’t forget to keep reaching for those EMS Stars of Life.
Until the next tone drop, I’m 10-8 back in quarters.
MEET PAM DUNCAN
Pam Duncan began work as KBEMS legal counsel in December. She grew up in Versailles
and earned her Bachelor’s degree at the University of Kentucky. Following graduation, she
taught high school English and Adult Basic Skills before returning to school to earn her JD at
UK’s College of Law. Subsequently, she was commissioned as an officer in the United State
Air Force and served as a Judge Advocate for six years. In the Air Force, she gained the
experience in a wide range of legal issues, including criminal law, general civil law, and
medical law. When she left the military, she was self-employed as a freelance writer and
editor. Pam completed the requirements for a Master’s Degree in Library and Information
Science at UK this summer. In December, KCTCS welcomed her as the newest member of
their legal services division. She lives in Lexington and is married to Jim Duncan, the city’s
Director of Long Range Planning.
Page 3
Volume 2, Issue 4
KAPA NEWS
BY JAMEY LOCKE
With one year closing and another soon beginning, we must realize that we are at the beginning of another decade.. That’s
right... A new decade! Upon looking at the past decade, EMS has suffered many trials and tribulations. Some people might
consider these trials and tribulations as failures; while others consider them opportunities.
Not wanting to reflect on the past trials/tribulations and opportunities, I would like to take a moment and let you know what
KAPA is currently doing to assist EMS within the Commonwealth of Kentucky. The agenda is big!
In September, the Kentucky Ambulance Providers elected a new leadership! The new leadership team consists of ;
Jamey Locke, President (Mercy Regional EMS)
Joe Prewitt, Vice President (Nelson County EMS)
Mike Poynter, Secretary ( PHI Air Medical)
Jim Duke, Treasurer (Com-Care, Inc)
The new leadership is actively meeting/speaking on a regular basis. It is hoped to have a strategic plan in place fore the approval of the KAPA Board of Directors at their January meeting. KAPA, in partnership with Representative Floyd, has sent the
Line of Duty Death benefit for all EMS providers to LRC. This has been attempted numerous times without success. Therefore,
it is IMPERATIVE that ALL providers ACTIVELY support this legislation.
Additionally, KAPA is diligently working to establish a Kentucky EMS Providers (Legislative) reception in February in Frankfort.
We will be sending out notices as soon as this is scheduled. It will provide an opportunity for all the providers to network together and then visit the Capital on the following day.
In order for EMS to be successful, EMS MUST UNITE, participate and become actively involved. Such involvement will reap
great rewards. KAPA’s agenda is large and the work will be tiresome and seem endless; however, if EMS providers will commit
and work hard, our labors will bear fruit. Then, as Johnny Cash (then later, Brooks and Dunn) sang so well, “Over the Next Hill,
We’ll Be Home/”
We look forward to seeing all of you at the KAPA meetings in 2010.
FROM ALL THE KBEMS STAFF:
MAY THE TRUEST GIFTS OF CHRISTMAS,
LOVE, JOY AND PEACE,
REMAIN WITH YOU THROUGHOUT THE YEAR
A Blessing From the Editor:
The Lord Bless You and Keep You
The Lord Make His Face Shine Upon You and Be Gracious To You
The Lord Turn His Face Toward You and Give You Peace
Numbers 6:24-26
Page 4
Volume 2, Issue 4
Some Conference Pictures furnished by and used with the
permission of John Hultgren
BOB HAMMONDS, KBEMS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
LT GOVERNOR
DANIEL MONGIARDO
KBEMS OFFICE STAFF, DARBY MCDONALD
LIAISONS/INSPECTORS, KEITH SMITH &
PAULA COYLE
REGISTRATION GURUS
JOHN & KAREN
EDUCATION COORDINATOR EVA PREWITT &
KAPA PRESIDENT MARK HARRISON
SAM LOWE, KBEMS INVESTIGATOR
Volume 2, Issue 4
Page 5
ABOVE & BEYOND
ABOVE & BEYOND
AWARD presented at the
2009 EMS Conference
Banquet.
From Left: Mark Harrison,
2009 KAPA President,
Paramedic Nate Wyatt,
Paramedic Matt Graden,
and Conference Chair
Joe Bradshaw
Submitted by Deborah Berry, Training/Education Coordinator/Paramedic, Madison County
Matt and Nate were on their way to Ephraim McDowell Hospital in Danville, KY, on May 8, 2009, with a patient. When they arrived
at the intersection of Highways 52 and 1295, they noticed the skies growing dark. They decided to return to Richmond anticipating
a horrible storm was imminent. Before they could act, however, a tornado descended from the sky and the crew found themselves
at ground zero. They notified dispatch that they thought they were in the middle of a tornado. The ambulance rocked back and
forth and was struck by debris from a barn that had exploded as a result of the approaching storm. For an instant, the crew
thought they would be sucked up into the storm and spit out, landing who knew where. Within the next few minutes, the storm had
passed; their location was quiet. All they could hear were dogs whimpering and then people screaming and crying.
Matt and Nate exited the ambulance and noticed all the devastation. They immediately checked the overturned vehicles as well as
what was left of nearby houses. They found all occupants mostly alright with just minor injuries. A male walked up to the crew and
told them he was in a mobile home with other people when the mobile home was picked up by the storm and thrown into a nearby
pond. Without hesitation, Matt ran into the shallow pond and found a female face down in the water. He also discovered a child
nearby, attempting to get away from floating debris, crying, and with a little dog in his arms. Nate secured a bystander to sit with
the elderly patient in the ambulance, called for additional resources and went to his partner’s aid wading into the pond.
After calling for help and beginning to render aid for those in the pond, they were told that with the huge tornado’s passing, all the
surrounding roads were blocked with debris and fallen power lines, and that help would come as soon as possible, but, for now,
they were all alone. The could hear multiple sirens in the background but realized all they had was each other and the supplies in
their ambulance.
The female patient in the pond was lying face down under large walls, struts, and other debris with only her head visible above
water. She had a severe avulsion of her scalp which had “flapped down” over her face exposing her entire skull and had no feeling
from her chest down. Matt immediately picked her head up slightly so she would not drown. The patient stated she was tired and
couldn’t hold herself up much longer. Matt continually reassured her they would do all they could to help her and her family. Nate
arrived shortly after to assist his partner with the necessary equipment to safely extricate the female from the pond. The female
was secured to the backboard and was held above the water line until additional help could arrive. Due to the debris and other
safety factors, they could not safely lift her from the pond by themselves.
The small boy (son of the female patient) was safely extricated from the heavy debris in the pond after several minutes while Nate
walked along the debris field to the safety of the mud bank. This child appeared to have a broken leg. Nate immobilized the boy,
covered him with blankets and secured a bystander who had children to stay with the boy and tell them of any changes. He then
went back to the pond to help his partner.
After what seemed like hours, other paramedics, EMTs, rescue squad members, firefighters and police officers were finally able to
reach the crew and their patients and successfully extricate the female from the pond. Matt and Nate had been in this pond for the
entire time, just keeping the patient calm and reassured…….all alone.
The crew was finally on its way to the University of Kentucky Level I Trauma Center, two hours after being caught up in the worst
natural disaster in recent Madison County history. The crew and their patients were all cold, wet, muddy and tired. The crew delivered the patients to the hospital, returned to Madison County, showered, changed clothes, and continued with their shift as if it
were a normal day “on the street”.
Page 6
Volume 2, Issue 4
CHAIRMAN’S AWARD
2009 EMS CONFERENCE
The Chairman’s Award is presented each year to those who have recurrently worked to ensure that the annual EMS conference
is a success. A committee of KAPA members did NOT have to think long this year to choose the recipients for this year’s award.
Jamey Locke (shown below with KAPA President Mark Harrison and Chair Joe Bradshaw) has consistently given his time, lent
support staff, provided expertise and monetary resources that has enabled KAPA to offer outstanding conferences each year.
Another loyal supporter of the conference is Ms. Faye Rice of Mountain Valley Insurance in Barbourville. She lends a tireless
energy to the Exposition Center, working her booth and helping others. A sponsor for as long as anyone can remember, Ms.
Rice did not even allow health problems to interfere with participating at the conference this year. Ms. Rice is pictured below with
Mark Harrison and Joe Bradshaw. Chairman Bradshaw has commented that, “if not for efforts of people like these, the continuity
of the conference would be jeopardized.”
MEDICAL DIRECTOR’S CORNER
By Dr. Irvin Smith, Medical Director, Mercy Regional/PHI Air Medical
With cold weather now in our region of the country, it is time to think about hypothermia and protecting our patients
from exposure. So, dust off the protocol book and review the “hypothermia” protocols. Actually, we should always
consider the possibility of hypothermia as our patients can become hypothermic even in what we might consider
warm weather. An unconscious trauma victim, ejected from a vehicle into a ditch partially filled with water can easily become a hypothermia victim even on a fairly warm summer evening.
Why is hypothermia bad? Our body’s enzyme systems like 37 degrees centigrade for normal functioning. In the
trauma patient, hypothermia will lead to blood clotting problems, never a good thing. Hypothermia depresses myocardial function and makes the heart irritable and prone to atrial and ventricular arrhythmias. Our old reliable ACLS
drugs do not work well at all in the presence of hypothermia.
What about this protective hypothermia for post -arrest patients? This is a totally different animal than the uncontrolled hypothermia that we are trying to avoid. There is good data now showing improved neurologic outcomes
following post-arrest resuscitation if patients are cooled to 33 -34 degrees for about 24 hours. This is very controlled in an ICU setting. This works because the hypothermia lowers cerebral metabolism.
As with most medical problems, prevention of hypothermia is much better than treatment. Remove wet clothing,
move to a warm environment, cover with warm blankets are all good options to prevent or manage initial mild degrees of hypothermia. More advanced pre-hospital care includes infusing warm IV fluids, warmed humidified oxygen, and forced air warming blankets. How do you know how cold they are? Special thermometers are required to
measure low temperatures. Clinically, if the patient is unconscious, they are profoundly hypothermic. Once in the
ED or ICU, more invasive methods are available to warm these patients such as gastric lavage, chest irrigation,
bladder irrigation, and partial cardiopulmonary bypass. There are even some new intravascular catheters that can
be placed in the groin to accomplish re-warming.
Hypothermia is also an issue for our EMS staff working in cold environments. Appropriate clothing and rehab must
be provided. Just like in our patients, hypothermia prevention in our staff is a much better option than treatment.
BE SAFE!! HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!
Page 7
Volume 2, Issue 4
REGION II/SOUTH CENTRAL NEWS
BY PAULA COYLE, LIAISON/INSPECTOR
Region II/South Central has some new directors and assistant directors to welcome! First, I would like to introduce to you Tom
Spalding, Director of Yellow Ambulance of Louisville. Tom’s career began in the fire service in 2000 . In 2004, he began working
as an EMT part-time for Yellow and moved to full-time in 2006, the same year he became licensed as a paramedic. In July, 2008,
Tom was promoted to Assistant Director and on October 16, 2009, was appointed as Director.
The new Assistant Director of Operations for Yellow Ambulance of Louisville is Chris Reid. Chris became an EMT in 1993, serving his community of Marion County by working in EMS and rescue for over a decade. Chris began with Yellow in February, 2007,
serving as Captain of the Bullitt County substation for a short time and then was appointed as Assistant Director of Operations on
October 16, 2009.
After 27 years of dedicated service, Pat Helm retired from LaRue County. His retirement was short-lived, however, as he is once
again back in saddle serving LaRue County as Director, effective November 5, 2009. Amy Helm will be serving LaRue County
EMS as Assistant Director. Amy is Pat’s wife and served as Interim Director after his retirement.
Most recently, Stephanie McAninch has been named as director for McKinney Area Rescue.
I would like to congratulate these folks on their new appointments and wish them well in their endeavors to provide quality emergency services to their communities. I have been busy in the System Office for the past several weeks assisting the office staff
with the re-licensing and recertification process. I wish to commend the staff on a job well done!
I want to take this opportunity to wish all of you a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! I also want to wish Keith Smith
the very best in his new endeavor as Deputy Director of Oldham County EMS. Keith has been great to work with at KBEMS. We
will miss him. GOOD LUCK KEITH!!!
NORTHERN KENTUCKY REGION NEWS
BY KEITH SMITH
Greetings from Northern Kentucky! Providers in Northern Kentucky have been dealing with a slow, but steady increase in patient
transports showing influenza like illnesses (ILI). Preventive measures such as wearing N95 face masks or surgical masks when
transporting patients exhibiting ILI along with frequent hand washing are the best defenses for staying healthy this flu season. We
are in the second wave of H1N1 which typically is the most virulent wave when dealing with an influenza outbreak. Proper sanitation of durable medical equipment and the patient compartment on a routine basis will also help stop the spread of the flu.
Congratulations to Pendleton County EMS for taking the plunge and going ALS! They’ve done a lot of hard work and went ALS
effective November 1st. Also, welcome to Life Air, the newest air ambulance provider in Kentucky. Life Air is based in Southern
Ohio. As always, if you have questions, feel free to contact your local EMS Liaison/Inspector!
A Parting Note from Keith
When I became an EMT in 1987, I never thought my career would be as diverse and interesting as it has been. From being a fire-based EMS provider to working with the Department
for Public Health EMS Branch to being an EMS Liaison/Inspector for KBEMS, I’ve been exposed to many wonderful people and seen great things being done in the field.
It has been my pleasure inspecting EMS providers across the state for the past eleven years
and providing guidance when needed. One of the most pleasurable parts of my job as an
inspector was meeting people. Though we all come from different parts of the state and
have different viewpoints on how things should be, overall everyone has the same common
goal in mind; helping people in need. Sometimes we forget that as our careers progress or
other factors challenge our beliefs. When that happens, we need to take a look inside ourselves to see what really matters in life. I don’t want to sound like some preachy drama on
television so I won’t get too philosophical!
I will be leaving KBEMS effective January 4, 2010, to become the Deputy Director of Operations at Oldham County EMS. I have
many fond memories of working for KBEMS. From laughing hysterically in the stairwell with others in Owensboro to sharing a cup
of coffee with friends in the field, I will miss the good times. I wish everyone the Best!
Keith Smith
Page 8
Volume 2, Issue 4
TAKING A LOOK AT KENTUCKY EMS EDUCATION
By Jay Cason
Nationally, the pass rate for those taking the National Registry EMT -B test for the first time has hovered around
67% for the last few years. However, Kentucky’s rates have remained much lower. On average, only 56% of
those Kentuckians who took the EMT test passed on first attempt in 2007 and 2008. During that same span,
79% passed within six attempts nationally, while just 69% passed within six attempts in Kentucky.
NREMT results for the paramedic exam were similar. Nationally, 64% passed first time and 84% within six
months. In Kentucky results were 51% and 74%
There are agencies scattered throughout the state whose EMS students perform very well on National Registry
exams. But, unfortunately, there are also at least seven whose scores range from slightly below to significantly
below the standard set by the Kentucky Administrative Regulation 7:601, which, in Section 4 states, “The board
may take disciplinary action against an EMT-TEI, if: During a twenty-four (24) month period, an EMS-TEI’s
cumulative pass rate for initial training and the programs offered falls below sixty -seven (67) percent.” The
regulation goes on to state that failure to maintain that standard could lead to penalties up to and including
revoking a TEI’s certification.
Among the Kentucky TEIs that annually test relatively large numbers of students, there are five that meet or, in
some cases, exceed the national average. The five (Eastern Kentucky University, Life Savers Inc., St. Elizabeth
Hospital [formerly St. Luke Hospital], Louisville Metro, and State Fire Rescue Training Area 3} have several
elements in common that contribute to their students’ success. Thos elements include: 1) Extensive planning
and coordination among its instructors; 2) Additional time scheduled well beyond the minimum state -mandated
hours; 3) Low student to instructor ratio; 4) Frequent skills practice with plenty of assistants; 5) Continuity (same
instructors and same syllabus over time); and 6) Above all else —well trained instructors.
The people who lead the high-scoring programs recently offered some reasons for their programs’ success,
including the following:
 “Our job is solely education,” said Nance Davis, of EKU. “Our instructors have a bachelor’s degree or
higher, who are well trained and understand our mission.”
 “Our medical director teaches some of our classes.” —Mike W ill, Louisville Metro’s Education Director
 “We have one other instructor and four others who come in to assist,” said Joseph Welsh, Life Savers Inc.
President. “I only allow people to assist who have come through our program.”
 “We use one instructor and enough assistants to make 4:1 student to instructor ratio,” —Deb Szurlinski, St.
Elizabeth Hospital
 “I trained both of our lead instructors and I’ve added a third instructor this fall.” —Jim VanCleve, SFRT
Area 3
In an attempt to enhance the quality of EMS instruction in the state and thereby improve students’ chances of
passing National Registry, KBEMS is currently considering bringing the acclaimed National Association of EMS
Educators (NAEMSE) Instructors’ Course to Kentucky.
The course was designed and developed by NAEMSE by a national faculty whose members participated in the
DOT/NHTSA 2002 National Guidelines for Educating EMS Instructors. A handful of Kentucky’s most skilled EMS
educators have taken the course and recommend it highly.
As stated by NAEMSA, the goals of the course include: 1) To assist attendees in achieving the entry -level
portions of the Guidelines for Educating the EMS Instructor; 2) To provide tools and resources to attendees who
want to teach to the best of their potential; 3) To provide foundational information on the teaching process; and,
4) To provide opportunities for networking and interpersonal growth,
A portion of the course is conducted online and participants have to complete a written test at course completion
which includes information from the online portion. Other than the online portion, the course is usually
conducted over a long weekend.
Those with a potential interest in the course or who have specific questions, may call the KBEMS office at (859)
256-3574 or e-mail kbems@kctcs.edu.
Page 9
Volume 2, Issue 4
EMS EDUCATION
EDUCATION—
—
A LOOK FORWARD
Recognizing the unprecedented changes in EMS education that will be occurring nationally in the next few years and the need
for Kentucky to strategically enhance its programs, Director Hammonds, along with the Board’s Education Committee is taking a
proactive approach. The Education Committee is in the process of drafting new education regulations to comply with the
changes being made nationally as well as anticipating the needs of Kentucky educators.
Understanding the need for guidance, the KBEMS Director and staff are initiating several programs for the TEIs and their instructors to become acquainted with the upcoming changes and prepare for the future. With accreditation a likely prospect for the
TEIs offering paramedic courses, KBEMS has scheduled a workshop with Dr. George Hatch, Executive Director, Committee
on Accreditation of Educational Programs for the EMS Profession (CoAEMSP). To be the single, comprehensive National
EMS education accreditation agency, as defined in the EMS Education Agenda for the Future is its vision. CoAEMSP’s mission,
under the auspices of the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), is to continuously improve the quality of EMS education through accreditation and recognition services for the full range of EMS professions.
The informational workshop with Dr. Hatch will be held:
WHEN: February 16, 2010
WHERE: KBEMS/KCTCS OFFICE
300 North Main
Versailles, KY 40383
TIME: 9:30 A.M—2:00 P.M. EST
Lunch will be provided FOR ONLY THOSE WHO RSVP to:
Sharon Pierceall
Phone: (502) 330-9006 or
E-mail: sharon.pierceall@kctcs.edu
Watch for other exciting events in the near future!
HOSPITAL PREPAREDNESS PROGRAM GRANT
By Jim Williams, CCEMT
CCEMT--P, RN, Medical Center at Bowling Green EMS
The FY 09 grant guidance for the Hospital Preparedness Program was released on December 3, 2009. Don’t let the name fool
you. Even though the program is heavily hospital focused, there is a lot of encouragement and need for participation by other
healthcare partners—including EMS.
In this year’s guidance priority areas that may be of interest to EMS are interoperable communications, hospital evacuation, mobile medical assets, pharmaceutical caches, PPE, decontamination, and training and incorporation of NIMS.
As an example, Region 4 used some funding to purchase and stock a trailer with support equipment to be used in the event an
ambulance strike team had to for to make a prolonged response either in the region or state.
Every region should be thinking about the formation of strike teams to improve coordination
with their mutual aid services during mass casualty events, and to be ready to respond to
other areas of the state in the event of a disaster.
The deadline for submission of spending plans from each region is January 22, 2010, which
means this grant cycle will move quickly. If you do not already participate in your region’s
HPP, get started now! Points of contact vary within the regions, but your district health department disaster coordinator or regional EMA director should be able to tell you where and when the meetings occur.
COMMUNICATING WITH KBEMS—Got questions? Got comments? Have them addressed directly by the bosses by using
the new KBEMS e-mail address: kbems@kctcs.edu.
LIKE TO TWIITER? KBEMS will be happy to join you! Just go to twitter.com and search KBEMS.
Volume 2, Issue 4
Page 10
News from the Services
AIR METHODS Kentucky 8 (submitted by District Business Manager John
Hultgren)—contributed to the spirit of the season with a float in the December
5th Glasgow Nighttime Parade. Base Flight Paramedic Beverly Ford got the
idea to build a gloat for the parade, submitted her request to Base Supervisor
Kim McCarty and the idea took off flying. This year’s theme was “Cartoon Characters”. The Glasgow Annual Nighttime Christmas parade is the Chamber of
Commerce’s biggest event of the year and is Kentucky’s largest Christmas parade with 174 floats this year. The event is televised locally Kim solicited help
from Base Mechanic David Pace, Flight Nurse Jennifer Mefford, pilot Steven
Gilreath, and Flight Nurse Josh Embry. Beverly, Kim, and Jennifer designed the
float. David donated his antique John Deere tractor, a wagon to support the
float, a generator and fuel. Steven did the framing on the float and mounted the generator below the wagon to power the lights
and inflatable's. The FBO at the base’s airport loaned the inflatable fixed-wing flown by Snoopy, and the inflatable helicopter flown
by Santa was a gift to the base by the contractor of their new building. Christmas is all about children, and children of the base
staff (and some of their young friends) rode on the float waving to the crowds and shouting “Merry Christmas” while the adults
walked alongside handing out candy to children who lined the parade route. It was a chilly 28 degrees, but the crowds lined for
nearly two miles along the parade route really seemed to be having a most wonderful time of the year.
Caldwell County—A basic Emergency Medical Technician Class is scheduled at the Caldwell County ATC. Starting date is
1/19/10 with classes meeting each Tuesday and Thursday nights, ending the last of June. Contact David Crenshaw, program administrator, at (270) 365-3787 for further information.
Campbellsville-Taylor County Rescue—Alan Bottoms reports that they began teaching their first paramedic class in June and
currently has 11 students. They just completed their fourth EMT class and will begin another in February. They certify over 300
persons per year in CPR and First Aid. They have also partnered with the Taylor Regional Hospital Education Department to
teach several PALS and ACLS classes throughout the year.
Carlisle County—will begin an EMT class in January, 2010. For more information, contact Wayne Floyd at (270) 628-0248.
Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center—is utilizing videotelemedicine as a resource to their medical crew in assessment
and diagnosis of neonates and pediatric patients. The videotelemedicine equipment mounts to their stretchers so it can be utilized
by the team inside referring hospitals to assist with stabilization of patients. The equipment is currently being piloted on neonatal
transports.
The Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center was recently awarded the 2009 Critical Care Ground Award of Excellence by the
national Association of Air Medical Services (AAMS). The award recognizes “an outstanding contribution to education, patient
advocacy and leadership in a dedicated Critical Care Ground program.: The award was presented to the team at the AAMS national conference in San Jose, California, in October. (Submitted by Becky Baute)
DAVIESS COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT—On September 5, 2009, a very deserving family in Eastern Daviess County was awakened to the sound of Ty Pennington (from the popular TV show, Extreme Makeover Home Edition) screaming through a megaphone, “Good Morning Mattingly Family!” From that very moment on, for the next seven straight days, the Daviess County Fire
Department provided around the clock ALS medical support to all volunteers and EMHE staff. During the construction process,
DCFD crews treated over twenty patients. Despite a few fractures, no one was seriously injured. The experience was unlike any
that they have had before, but proved to be most rewarding at the conclusion when the family was presented with their new home.
“Just for Kids” Transport Team-Kosair Children’s Hospital—The “All About Kids” Transport Conference for 2010 is quickly
approaching. The conference will be held at the Hilton Garden Inn in Louisville, Kentucky, in April. Watch your mail for upcoming information.
In September, 2009, the American Academy of Pediatrics sponsored the first certification exam for clinicians caring for neonatal
pediatric patients in the transport setting. The exam was geared to cover the knowledge and skill base of the EMT, paramedic,
nurse, respiratory therapist and physician serving in this role. Four members of the JFK Team took the examination on this
maiden session. Tony Hilbert is please to announce all four passed with flying colors! Members included: Brenda Bolin, RT; Lesli
Carter, RNl; Jeffrey Clark, RT; and Lila Hettel, RT
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News from the Services
Livingston County EMS—
Their move is complete. Two new EMS stations are functional as of November 1, 2009, to
provide service to the 10,000 residents of Livingston County with 2 ALS ambulances 24/7.
Another new ambulance is expected to be added in January.
Louisville Metro EMS—On September 26th, Dr. Neal Richmond and Maj. Rick Robbins lectured on cardiac rhythm disturbances,
crush injuries and lesson learned from 9/11 at the Jefferson County Fire School.
On September 29th, LMEMS and the American Heart Association launched the “CPR in the Schools” program. Seventh-graders
in six JCPS schools (Farnsley, Lassiter, Moore, Liberty, and North and South Olmsted) were trained in CPR through the use of the
AHA CPR Anytime take-home kits. The students were then encouraged to train their friends and family at home as well.
McLean County EMS—received a grant from Homeland Security in the amount of $26,946. This will be used to upgrade equipment on the ambulances, i.e., ECG monitor, ventilator, pulse oximeter.
Medical Center (Madisonville)—It is with great sadness that Medical Center Ambulance Service experienced the loss of long-time employee and friend, Howard McCay
on October 29, 2009. Howard was a dedicated EMT for more than 20 years, working at
other EMS agencies in surrounding counties as well as Medical Center. Howard was
one of the found members of Squad 42 Hopkins County DES and served as the first
Fire Chief for Grapevine Fire Department. Howard enjoyed his role as an EMT providing help and assistance to anyone in need at any time. In his leisure time, He enjoyed
motorcycle riding, fishing and spending time with his family and friends. Howard was
known for his kindness and sense of humor, enjoying life as was evident in his smile and laughter. Hundreds paid tribute by attending Howard’s funeral; many surrounding ambulance services and fire departments participated in the funeral procession to the
cemetery. He will be forever missed by all who new and loved him. As a memorial to Howard, Medical Center Ambulance Service
has dedicated new Care Unit 2 in his honor.
Methodist Hospital Ambulance Service—Upcoming Events include: 1) EMT-B course beginning 1/20/10, 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.,
Monday and Wednesday evenings. Cost is $550.00 which can be made in payments. Instructor will be Janet Culver. 2) A PALS
Recertification Course will be conducted 1/14/10, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Cost is $75.00. Instructor is Daniel Carter. 3) AHA
Bloodborne Pathogen Course will be held 1/20/10 from 8:00 a.m. to noon. Cost is $25.00. Instructor is Daniel Carter. 4) A PALS
Instructor Course is scheduled for 1/21/10, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Cost is $75.00. Instructor is Daniel Carter. 5) ACLS Recertification Course is set for 2/11/10, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Cost is $75.00. Instructor is Daniel Carter. 6) ACLS Instructor
Course is set for 2/18/10, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Cost is $75.00. Instructor is Daniel Carter. All courses will be held at the
Henderson South Station, 383 Borax Drive. For more information and/or registration, contact Education Coordinator Daniel Carter
at (270) 826-6558 or e-mail him at danielc@insightbb.com or dcarter@methodisthospital.net.
Muhlenberg Community Hospital EMS—reports NO disasters in Muhlenberg for an entire quarter! Yea!!!! (No Jinx, No Jinx)
Occunet—EMT-B class will begin on January 11, 2010, Monday and Wednesday evenings from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at 2535
Broadway, Paducah. The cost is $900. For more information, contact Jim Thompson at (270) 575-3001.
Oldham County EMS—If you saw EMS responding in Oldham County recently,
chances are you may have done a double-take. That's because the normally
staid design of the trucks has been changed and for good reason. Two of the
ambulances from Oldham County EMS were striped with a special pink vinyl to
help promote Breast Cancer awareness. The decorative stripes, which were paid
for through employee donations (no public funds were used), will remain on the
trucks for the remainder of the month.
In an effort to add a human touch to the concept, the department is asking
breast cancer survivors to stop by and sign the pink stripe. The hope is that in doing so, people will understand that the awareness
campaign isn't just an advertising gimmick -- it's a reminder that each and every day, women are diagnosed with breast cancer. But
more importantly, an increasing number of those diagnosed with the disease are surviving. The trucks will also be on hand at many
of the Breast Cancer Awareness events throughout Oldham and Jefferson counties.
Volume 2, Issue 4
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News from the Services
PHI Air Medical of Kentucky—In February of this year, PHI (Oil & Gas Division) celebrated its 60th anniversary. Also this year,
Air Evac, the Air Medical Division of PHI, celebrated its 40th anniversary. 1st Annual Santa Fly-In: Christmas is one of the most
celebrated holidays of the year, enjoyed by kids of all ages. Unfortunately, there are many kids each year that do not get to enjoy
Christmas with their families. On Christmas morning, PHI 5 from Williamstown will bring Santa and the spirit of Christmas to the
University of Kentucky Hospital to the pediatric floors, PICU, NCU, and pediatric ER to deliver present to those children that won’t
make it home for Christmas. With the support of the local community businesses, hospitals, and fire/EMS providers, the Williamstown base has been able to collect donations of both toys and money to support this event. Although we have collected a good
amount of toys for the kids, we are still in need of donations to ensure that we have enough gifts for every child that we see. We
are still accepting donations in the forms of monetary gifts in any amount or new toys not exceeding $15 per item. Donations can
be delivered directly to the PHI dispatch office located at 1001 Monarch Drive in Lexington, and may also be mailed to PHI 5, c/o
Wes Chasteen, 105 Kimberly Lane, Williamstown, KY 41097. All donations are greatly appreciated and will indeed brighten Christmas for a sick child this holiday season. If you have questions, please contact Williamstown Flight Paramedic Wes Chasteen at
(859) 462-9242.
Russell County Ambulance Service—Will offer an EMT-Basic Course beginning January 11, 2010, and will beet every Monday
and Thursday, with an additional 3 Saturday classes. Cost is $550, payable by January 11th, and is all inclusive except for National Registry fees. Candidates must be at least 18 years of age have a high school diploma or GED and a valid Kentucky drivers’
license. For more information, contact Russell County Ambulance Service, 108 Ferco Way, Jamestown, KY, or call (270) 3436464. Visit their website at www.rcems.com or e-mail them at rcems@rcems.com
State Fire-Rescue Training Area 1—will begin an EMT-Basic class on January 11th. For more information, Contact Kelly Harris
by phoning (270) 534-3446 or e-mailing her at kellyv.harris@kctcs.edu
Twin City Ambulance—”How to Grow an EMT”—This service, as most all services, is continuously faced with retention of EMTs.
Over the years, numerous men and women have completed the EMT course, were employed by a service, only to leave after a few
months or a year or two. Reasons for leaving include low pay, unforgiving work schedules, being away from family, and the intense pressure placed on those involved with caring for the sick, injured, afflicted and dying. In 2008, staff members agreed that
the service needed to “grow its own EMTs”. The thought was that if the service trained good, local students, they might be more
willing to stay and work in the local community. The students would also be familiar with and trained by the service that would employ them, making a smooth transition into the work force. In November, 2008, Fulton Fire Department and Twin City Ambulance
Service met with the Fulton Independent School District to discuss the possibility of teaching the EMT class at the Fulton High
School in August, 2009. With school authorization, the process of gaining approval from all the various agencies began including
the Kentucky Board of Education and the local school board. With assistance from SFRT Area 1, approvals were granted and
logistical planning began. Presentations on EMS careers were made to 10th and 11th graders to ascertain the approximate number of interested students. As a result, 35 students expressed interest . The school allocated $7,000 from its budget for an EMT
class. In July, 2009, an anonymous Fulton City alumnus contacted Superintendent Owen and pledged the necessary funding for
the entire course.
Certified EMT Instructors from Twin City along with SFRT Area 1 adjunct instructors met with the students’ parents to explain the
content of the adult, college-level course material. The course consists for 177 hours including one period a day during the course
of the school year. In addition to classroom lectures, the students must complete reading assignments, the course workbook, and,
as part of the hands-on skills, will devote 10 hours of ride time with an ambulance service and 10 hours in a hospital emergency
room, and an 8-hour auto extrication course. They must pass the written portion with at least an 80% average and the skills
evaluation with 100% competency. Upon successful completion, they will receive 6 college credits and First Responders will receive 3.5 college credits. Students desiring to seek a career in EMS must take the National Registry exam to receive Kentucky
certification. It is the hope of all involved that this class will continue in the Fulton Independent School for years to come and provide a doorway to students seeking a career in the medical field. Twin City has high hopes of being able to keep a few of these
EMTs around to serve their community for years to come as well.
Vanderbilt LifeFlight—will host the following classes: EMT Refreser: January 4, 11, 25; EMT-P Refresher: Monday evenings
beginning February 1—March 8th; Communications Course: February 4, and EMT-P Vent Course: March 12, 19. Registration for these courses and information on others can be found at www.vulifeflight.com. On July 7th, 2009, Vanderbilt LifeFlight
cerebrated 25 years as a flight program. They wish to thank Kentucky for the ongoing support of their air medical program.
911 Billing—October 21 & 22 three of the staff traveled with Lind Basham to Hershey, PA, to attend the 5th anniversary ABC3
Ambulance Billing, Coding & Compliance Clinic. They took part in the first ever graduation ceremony from the Nationa Acedem of
Ambulance Coding Class representing the other 14 staff members that have taken the class, for a total of 108 Certified Ambulance
Coders. Linda is a member of the Advisory Committee. For more information about the class, visit: /AppData/Local/Microsoft/
Windows/Termoprary Internet Files/Content.Outlook/NM146EUT/ambulancecoding.com