Pretty wicked call today.

[zmedic]

I'd second launching the chopper, especially if you are a ways away from the level 1 trauma center. She sounds like someone who needs a neurosurgeon. Also don't think I would have intubated her in the field. If she was still breathing well on her own with the OPA I would have just transported like you did.

 

[Handsome Robb]

Closest trauma center is a level 2 about an hour away via ground, as long as the roads are clear going over the pass, can be a lot longer with winter weather. As I said, I requested it but the way our protocols and SOPs are written, it is the EMS units choice on whether to call for it or not.

Haven't heard anything back from the family and I feel like it would be inappropriate to try and contact them again. I hope the little girl makes a recovery.


On another note, had a guy take a 15 foot fall to flat today. C/O middline back pain, SOB and pain 10/10 with the worst pain he ever felt being a 26 foot fall to pavement with multi-system trauma 5 years ago. Good distal CMS though...He got whisked off to the trauma center real quick today. Don't call your last run when your boarding or skiing people!

 

[wildrivermedic]

it honestly scares me a little bit with all the responsibility. Is this a sign?

You could see it that way... as a sign that you're doing well in difficult situations. I'd be more worried if you weren't a bit scared! It is a lot of responsibility but from your post it seems you can handle it. You took control of the scene and did what could be done -- mostly getting her out of there fast.

On another note, can anyone comment on the use of pulse ox in cold environments? Anyone use them on ski patrol? Personally when my hands are cold my cap refill approches infinity...

 

[Handsome Robb]

I know a few of our vollys have them, I can't attest to their effectiveness though, but they seem to like them.
I don't usually even check cap refill, because, as you said it is greatly altered by the cold environment.