The "They Think We're Stupid" Files

I’ve always considered myself somewhat of a skeptic. Whenever I hear of a new medical treatment, my first considered action is to review the research, both pro and con. I’m a proponent of evidence-based medicine, and I take my fair share of criticism because I’ll gleefully slaughter a few EMS sacred cows that are poorly supported by current research (see: ...

Bravery is desired, but recklessness and stupidity are better. Benefits include free funeral services, salary starts at $15/hour, body armor not included.

… you’re looking for a restaurant, not an Emergency Department. Dear Malingering System Abuser Type, When you mention that you’ve had your minor symptoms for four days, and that you wouldn’t normally go to Hospital A except by ambulance, because arriving on a stretcher gets you seen faster… … I’m going to mention that to the triage nurse at Hospital ...

Two little words than can mean everything, or absolutely nothing, to an EMS provider.

As for me, blog on Ambulance Driver: I’ve read the disclosure, I’ve signed the waiver, I’ve assembled my supplies, and my bags are packed; let’s catch the wind and see where this all will take us. I know it’s going to be a bumpy ride so I’ve got my seat belt fastened. The future begins... here.

… I appreciate the fact that you are tired and footsore. If what you’ve told me is true, you’ve been walking for a hundred miles, and you’ve forty more to go. You also tell me you are having breathing difficulty. Yet, your unlabored breathing, clear lung sounds and 100% oxygen saturation belie that complaint. I am also aware that the ...

“Incident assigned.” Rookie Partner glances at the mobile data terminal, whoops happily, and puts the truck in gear. “What is it?” I yawn. “Stabbing/gunshot wound,” RP grins. “Finally, something good!” Before I can answer, the radio crackles, “Headquarters to CCT 4.” Sighing, I key the mike. “CCT 4, gourd head.” “CCT 4, the scene is safe. The patient accidentally stabbed ...

…of two 29-year-old identical twin girls, both of whom have fibromyalgia and are allergic to all NSAIDs? Further, what are the odds that both of them will owe the same hospital thousands of dollars each, because Medicaid has stopped paying for their ER visits? Even more, what are the odds that one of them will present to the ER precisely ...