Fire Daily Journal July 11, 2010

Today we started out the shift helping with some training for the life guards at a local pool. We ran two scenario stations. One was a trauma station where we simulated a person unconscious in the pool after a diving accident. This was a learning experience for both of us. We were able to see their methods for removing an unconscious person from a pool. This way we have an idea of what to expect when we arrive on scene and transition into our treatment protocols that much more smoothly. Firstly we trained them to be authoritative and loud. Next up was the need for efficiency, knowing where all of their equipment is, right off the bat, designated roles and team leader, and thinking ahead to anticipate needs. I got to role play as a hysterical distraught mom and pretty much caused havoc throughout the scenario. After a bit they started to get the hang of shepherding me away from the rescuers and putting me to work giving information about the patient.

The second station we gave them a medical scenario ranging from allergic reactions to bee stings, to strokes. The main lessons for them here centered around asking questions, using all of their available resources such as bystanders and family to gather information about the patient, and how to effectively organize that information into a well ordered turnover report. In the end we gave them a lot of information, but they were very receptive and eager to learn and implement what we had taught them.