City honors fire and EMS crew after trauma surgeon credits field treatment with saving 3‑year‑old
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Summary
A trauma surgeon told the commission that quick prehospital care and medications administered by local first responders helped save a critically injured 3‑year‑old; the City recognized the responding crew and their training during a presentation to the commission.
A trauma surgeon and hospital medical staff told the Sanford City Commission on Oct. 27 that the city’s first responders and EMS team provided lifesaving field treatment to a 3‑year‑old child struck by a vehicle.
Dr. Don Plumley, a trauma surgeon at Arnold Palmer Hospital, described the June incident in which a child was found unconscious with head, spinal, pelvic and abdominal injuries. He said paramedics and firefighters provided immediate stabilization and specialized medications in the field that reduced brain swelling and the risk of seizures. ‘‘Because of their resuscitation, their response saved her life,’’ Plumley said.
Plumley and hospital staff credited the Fire Department’s training, equipment and protocols for the positive outcome: the child survived, returned home and, two months later, was described as functioning normally. The commission joined the hospital in presenting certificates to the responding crew and thanked the Fire Department for continued training and equipment support.
Why it matters: The presentation highlighted investments in EMS training and prehospital trauma care and illustrated how early interventions in the field can change patient outcomes. Commissioners applauded the joint work of fire, EMS and regional medical teams and recognized the crew by name during the presentation.
