Kudos from the Cath Lab: Volume 18

Posted on May 9, 2016 by ASM-Aetna

SOMERS — During early May 2016, ASM Paramedic Billy Schnepp and his partner Brian Langan responded to a medical call in Somers, CT. The EKG was indicative of a STEMI and Billy wirelessly transmitted the 12-lead EKG to UConn Health in Farmington, activating their cardiac catherization lab from the field. (#16-33635).

Per UConn Health:
A 12-lead ECG revealed a high lateral STEMI. Schnepp consulted with medical control for destination due to patient’s requested choice of PCI center, and received permission to transport to UCONN John Dempsey Hospital. Due to concern for potential patient deterioration, Schnepp received intercept help from Windsor EMS paramedic Wayne Cabral.

Schnepp called in a STEMI Alert from 33 minutes out. When they arrived at the hospital, thanks to the early notification, the patient was taken directly to the cardiac cath lab on the EMS stretcher where Dr. Michael Azrin and team found a 100% acute thrombic occlusion of the patient’s mid left Anterior Descending Artery (LAD), which was successfully cleared and stented, restoring perfusion. The patient is doing well, thanks to the great job by the EMS/Hospital STEMI team!

19 Minute Door to Balloon. 71 Minute First Medical Contact to Balloon
ED Team: Paul Kaloudis, MD, Leslie Mulhall, RN
Cardiology/Cath Lab Team—Dr. Christopher Pickett, Dr. Michael Azrin, Dr. Nelson Chavarria, Elizabeth Drotar,
R.N., Patricia. Weigle, R.N. , Patty Fagan, R.N., Shelia LaFleur, R.N.

‘Words cannot explain the gratitude’

Posted on April 21, 2016 by ASM-Aetna

In an email from April 2016, regarding a response from ASM’s Melissa Osborne, her partner Matt Kleza, and Andover Fire Department:

Dear Melissa, Ben, John and John,

Words cannot explain the gratitude my wife and I have for everyone for coming to the rescue two weeks ago during my heart attack. As Murphy’s Law would have it, the one time we said this winter “what the heck let the sun melt the snow”, little did we know we’d need a 4WD ambulance rescue! Your team performed admirably under tough conditions during the rescue. Many thanks go especially to Melissa for remembering to grab the “go” bag as we passed by the stuck ambulance. Holding may hand thru the terrible, excruciating pain at first kept me from passing out and of course your defibrillation brought me back to life on the way to Hartford Hospital….

Another defibrillation on the table and two stents later, I’m now resting at home for a few weeks hoping to get back to teaching my students. Once again thanks to the AFD, Melissa and the dispatchers for all you did on the morning of April Xth and continue to do each day for all of us. Hope to see everyone at your annual steak dinner again, however maybe this time it will be a veggie platter for me…

-Patient

(#16-25277)

Praise for ASM’s Bob O’Neil and Jared Krajewski

Posted on March 24, 2016 by ASM-Aetna

In a letter from early March 2016:

To Whom it May Concern:

For the first time in my 54 years, I had to call an ambulance for transport to the hospital for a severe [condition]. The paramedics, Jared and Bob, who were dispatched from the SWPD, were professional, compassionate, and skilled. They made me feel comfortable and provided top-notch care.

With sincerity and gratitude,

[Patient who is a physician]

(16-16321, South Windsor)

Potential Life Threatening Wind Chills & Near Record Cold Temps This Weekend

Posted on February 12, 2016 by ASM-Aetna

Occasionally we will share severe weather information consequential to public health, public safety and EMS response.

An arctic air mass will overspread the region Saturday afternoon into Sunday with potential life threatening wind chills and near record cold temperatures. Now is the time to take action and review the preparedness tips below.

Timing: The core of the cold air arrives Saturday afternoon and settles over the region Saturday night into Sunday. Impacts … this is a potentially life threatening cold air mass for residents of MA, RI & CT Saturday afternoon into Sunday with wind chills 15 to 25 below zero and potentially 30 below zero across the interior. In addition, actual air temperatures will approach record low values Saturday night.

Marine Impacts: Heavy Freezing Spray Saturday afternoon into Sunday may result in dangerous conditions for any vessel in the near shore waters of MA & RI. The threat of heavy freezing spray will lessen with increasing distance from the coastline as water temperatures are warmer offshore.

Potential Snowfall Friday Evening & Overnight: ahead of the Arctic front a brief period of moderate to heavy snow is possible across Cape Cod, Nantucket & Marthas Vineyard. Snow accumulations of 1-3″ are possible. Elsewhere, only a period of light snow or flurries are expected.

Kudos from the Cath Lab: Volume 17

Posted on February 8, 2016 by ASM-Aetna

ROCKY HILL — During early February 2016, Aetna Paramedic Ryan Gonska and his partner Logan Royale responded to a medical call in Rocky Hill. The EKG was indicative of a STEMI and Ryan wirelessly transmitted the 12-lead EKG to Saint Francis Hospital, activating their cardiac catherization lab from the field. (#16-8644).

Rapid identification, treatment, and early notification (STEMI ALERT) is vital in the care of patients with cardiac emergencies such as ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction. We hope the attached information is useful in the design and monitoring of your treatment strategies. — Saint Francis Hospital staff

SFH Cath Lab Patient Follow-Up Form

Treatment by EMS and Direct to SFH ED

EMS Agency: Aetna Ambulance

Indication: STEMI

First Medical Contact (FMC) (at pt side) 16:13 elapse: 00:00

EMS 12 Lead Acquisition Time: 16:17 elapse: 00:04

EMS STEMI Alert Request Time (source: cmed): 16:37 elapse: 00:20

EMS 12 Lead Transmit Rec’d Time (source: Lifenet): 16:19 elapse: 00:02

Arrival Time (SFHED): 16:51 elapse: 00:14

Cath Lab Arrival Time (SFH): 17:13 elapse: 00:22

Procedure Start Time: 17:28 elapse: 00:15

Vessel Angiography Findings / Treatment: 3V Dz; Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Consult.

Comments: Patient went MD office due to prolonged chest pain and shortness of breath; APRN performed EKG and administered Aspirin; No first medical contact time, so EMS times utilized- EMS dispatched 16:05 on scene 16:10. Transport 16:31. EMS performed 12-lead; STEMI Center activation at 16:37. Cath lab notified prior to arrival of patient. Patient required emergent coronary artery bypass graft instead of stents.

Praise for Aetna’s Eric Thepsiri and Donna Achilli

Posted on February 2, 2016 by ASM-Aetna

In an email from late January 2016:

Eric Thepsiri

“Just before we got onto the highway, mom was in such distress that we decided to pull over and call 911 so that an ambulance could transfer her and treat her along the way. A few minutes later, mom was in the ambulance, shaking from extreme chills, extreme lower back/hip and leg pain, and nausea.

Donna Achilli

The terrific professional ambulance paramedic named Eric and his associate EMT Donna, (who drove the ambulance) reassured mom, while Eric checked her vitals (including blood pressure which was good) and gave her a dose of Fentanyl (a fast-acting pain killer) that immediately brought her some relief. He also wrapped her in blankets which helped her to warm up quickly. Meanwhile, I rode in the back of the ambulance with mom and shared info on her meds and background on the infusion treatment with Eric.

The ambulance crew was so professional and amazing — both in their treatment of mom and their compassion and emotional support for all of us. Please thank the crew for us.”

Note: Run #16-6852, certain information redacted for privacy.

I’m always in good hands…

Posted on January 21, 2016 by ASM-Aetna

From a thank you card received at ASM in December 2015. From a 15 year old patient in South Windsor:

To all of the ASM Paramedics:

You guys have been to my aid many times. My dogs have scared you. My little brother called once. I’m eternally grateful for everything you all have done for me and my family.

Asthma isn’t fun and I was actually just released from the hospital today…

But it’s nice to know I’m always in good hands. Let’s hope I don’t see you guys any time soon!

Signed with a heart by the patient.

Kudos from the Cath Lab: Volume 16

Posted on January 8, 2016 by ASM-Aetna

STAFFORD SPRINGS — During January 2016, ASM Paramedic David White and his partner Ray Philbrick responded to a medical call in Stafford with Stafford Ambulance. The EKG was indicative of a STEMI and Dave wirelessly transmitted the 12-lead EKG to Saint Francis Hospital, activating their cardiac catherization lab from the field. (#16-0017.

“Here is the full feedback report. Great job!!” – John Quinlavin, Manager, Emergency Medical Service, Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center.

SFH Cath Lab Patient Follow-Up Form Treatment by EMS and Direct to SFH ED

EMS Agency: Ambulance Service of Manchester & Stafford Ambulance

Indication: STEMI

First Medical Contact (FMC) (at pt side) Date/Time: 1/1/2016 01:00 elapse: 00:00

EMS 12 Lead Acquisition Time: 01:02 elapse: 00:02

EMS STEMI Alert Request Time (source: cmed): 01:19 elapse: 00:17

EMS 12 Lead Transmit Rec’d Time (source: Lifenet): 01:19 elapse: 00:17

Arrival Time (SFHED): 01:41 elapse: 00:22

Cath Lab Arrival Time (SFH): 02:03 elapse: 00:22

Procedure Start Time: 02:20 elapse: 00:17

First Device Time: 02:46 elapse: 00:26

————————————————————————————————————–

SFHED Door to First Device: 65 min

FMC to First Device: 106 min

Vessel Angiography Findings / Treatment: 100% SVG-RCA lesion open not stented.

Comments: Onset chest pain 00:00. Once patient on EMS stretcher Asystole, went to start CPR, patient responsive prior to any compressions. This occurred again during transport. STEMI team paged prior to arrival at 0122.

ASM’s Josh Traber Receives a Thank You Visit

Posted on December 30, 2015 by ASM-Aetna

MANCHESTER — On December 28, 2015 ASM Paramedic Josh Traber was visited by a family who wanted to thank them for caring for their three year old son Wesley. In June of 2015 Wesley had an allergic reaction to peanuts in South Windsor and was treated by Josh. Since that time he has asked each time he has seen an ambulance whether each one was “his ambulance”.

Wesley’s mom brought cookies and Josh gave Wesley and his older brother a tour of the ambulance. She said via email after their brief reunion, “Josh was wonderful to us that day. He made me feel calm and at ease, and I am grateful for that. The job you all do is really a gift, and you touch so many lives on a daily basis it takes a special person to do what you do.”

*Pictures and details appear with express permission.

State is Monitoring Forecast for Hurricane Joaquin

Posted on October 1, 2015 by ASM-Aetna

GOV. MALLOY SAYS STATE IS MONITORING FORECAST FOR HURRICANE JOAQUIN, ADVISES RESIDENTS TO BE PREPARED FOR POSSIBLE SEVERE WEATHER

(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Dannel P. Malloy today said that his office and state emergency management officials are closely monitoring the activity of Hurricane Joaquin, which is currently in the Atlantic Ocean, and is advising Connecticut residents to closely follow weather reports and prepare for the possibility of its arrival in the region over the next five days.

“We are monitoring the storm closely, and our state emergency management officials have been in regular contact with the national weather service. While there are many variables with this storm, we are paying close attention to its track,” Governor Malloy said. “Just as the state and its agencies are monitoring the weather and preparing appropriately, residents should do the same and closely watch forecasts over the next few days.”

Officials with the Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection are prepared to coordinate any potential state response and are participating in ongoing National Weather Service conference calls to receive the latest information on the storm’s track.

Kudos from the Cath Lab: Volume 15

Posted on August 19, 2015 by ASM-Aetna

GLASTONBURY — During July 2015, ASM Paramedic Joshua Traber and his partner Supervisor Michael Sparks responded to a medical call in Glastonbury with Glastonbury Ambulance. The EKG was indicative of a STEMI and Josh wirelessly transmitted the 12-lead EKG to Saint Francis Hospital, activating their cardiac catherization lab from the field. (#15-53809).

SFH Cath Lab Patient Follow-Up Form Treatment by EMS and Direct to SFH ED

EMS Agency: Ambulance Service of Manchester & Glastonbury Vol Ambulance

Indication: STEMI

First Medical Contact (FMC) (at pt side) 14:09 elapse: 00:00

EMS 12 Lead Acquisition Time: 14:17 elapse: 00:08

EMS STEMI Alert Request Time (source: cmed): 14:38 elapse: 00:21

EMS 12 Lead Transmit Rec’d Time (source: Lifenet): 14:37 elapse: 00:20

Arrival Time (SFHED): 14:46 elapse: 00:09

Cath Lab Arrival Time (SFH): 15:37 elapse: 00:51

Procedure Start Time: 15:46 elapse: 00:09

First Device Time: 16:07 elapse: 00:21

————————————————————————————————————–

SFHED Door to First Device: 81 min

FMC to First Device: 118 min

Vessel Angiography Findings / Treatment:100% LAD and 80% RCA lesions; LAD open and stented. IABP required. NOTE: delay to PCI due to CTSCAN to r/o aortic aneurysm-family history.

ASM and South Windsor Fire Department Standby at Circus

Posted on July 20, 2015 by ASM-Aetna

SOUTH WINDSOR — On July 19, 2015 ASM and South Windsor Fire Department were requested and assigned to ‘Circus Smirkus‘ at South Windsor High School due to the expected crowds and extreme heat. The circus was hosted by the Silk City Chorus. No transports were reported.

Pictures courtesy of the South Windsor Fire Department Facebook page.

Kudos from the Cath Lab: Volume 14

Posted on June 24, 2015 by ASM-Aetna

STAFFORD — During June 2015, ASM Paramedics Jonathan Lentini, and Greg Derosier responded to a medical call in Stafford with Stafford Ambulance. The EKG was indicative of a STEMI and Jon wirelessly transmitted the 12-lead EKG to Hartford Hospital, activating their cardiac catherization lab from the field. (#15-46694). The following are comments provided by Hartford Hospital’s Dr. Marcin Dada with some acronyms and patient information removed:

Today’s STEMI: Stafford to Hartford Hospital TOTAL Ischemia time 73 min !!!

Congratulations everyone!!!

This patient was brought from Stafford to HH by ASM and Stafford Ambulance (pre hospital ECG was sent and communicated to the ED attending: Drs. Dufel/Price and Cath Lab was activated).

Highlight: We utilized the quick registration where the EMS team was met at the triage and the patient was brought straight to the Cath Lab.

In a nut shell:

1) HH D2B Time = 30 min

2) Total Ischemia Time = 73 min (goal <90 min [1st Medical Contact in the field to Open Artery Time in the Cath Lab]

3) 100% mid-RCA –> 2 DES (TIMI III Flow)

In particular, we would like to recognize the following teams:

1) HH Cath Team – Dr Hirst; D. Jordan, T Schrimer

2) HH ER Team – Drs Dufel, Price and Tilden, and the rest of the clinical team (I am sure we missed many as this was a quick triage)

3) EMS team : G. Derosier and J. Lentini and the Stafford crew.

Strong Work.

Regards,

Marcin Dada, MD

Co-Director, CPC

Manager, Structural Heart Program

Manager, Cardiovascular Data Management Center

Manager, Preventive Cardiology and Cardiac Rehab

Thank You Card to ASM’s Rob Bilodeau and Joe Startup

Posted on June 12, 2015 by ASM-Aetna

SOUTH WINDSOR — In early June, 2015 ASM received another heartfelt Thank You card directed to ASM Paramedic Rob Bilodeau and EMT Joe Startup. The card reads:

“Dear Sirs:

I wish to thank the 2 men who helped me so much the night of March 13^th. They transported me all the way from South Windsor to Backus Hospital at my request. They could not have been kinder and more respectful then they were. I feel they saved my life. It seems I had double pneumonia and heart problems brought on by becoming very ill and being 80 years old. I went from the healthiest 80 year old to the sickest 80 year old in just two days. How wonderful for me that such men [worked on] this ambulance.”

Aetna Responds: Car crashes into Wethersfield home; Portion of Route 3 in Wethersfield closed

Posted on May 27, 2015 by ASM-Aetna

Credit: WFSB

WETHERSFIELD, CT (WFSB) – A portion of Route 3 in Wethersfield was closed after a motor vehicle crashed into a home on Wednesday afternoon, police said.

The crash was reported in the area of Maple and Prospect streets around 12:30 p.m.

Three paramedic ambulances were sent to the scene, according to Aetna Ambulance Service officials. At least two people, an elderly couple, were rushed to Hartford Hospital. Their conditions were not released by police.

Police said the vehicle crashed into a power meter before hitting the house. Power was then cut to house before the couple was removed from the vehicle.

It is unclear how long Route 3 will be closed. Read the complete story here…

ASM-AETNA Blog

Dedicated to providing consistent, timely and clinically excellent service to our patients, clients and communities.

Category Archives: EMS Response

Kudos from the Cath Lab: Volume 18

‘Words cannot explain the gratitude’

Praise for ASM’s Bob O’Neil and Jared Krajewski

Potential Life Threatening Wind Chills & Near Record Cold Temps This Weekend

Kudos from the Cath Lab: Volume 17

Praise for Aetna’s Eric Thepsiri and Donna Achilli

I’m always in good hands…

Kudos from the Cath Lab: Volume 16

ASM’s Josh Traber Receives a Thank You Visit

State is Monitoring Forecast for Hurricane Joaquin

Kudos from the Cath Lab: Volume 15

ASM and South Windsor Fire Department Standby at Circus

Kudos from the Cath Lab: Volume 14

Thank You Card to ASM’s Rob Bilodeau and Joe Startup

Aetna Responds: Car crashes into Wethersfield home; Portion of Route 3 in Wethersfield closed