By Anne Fitzgerald
Brentwood Gazette
Copyright 2006 Brentwood Gazette
All Rights Reserved
Some 17 new ambulance workers have been given their stethoscopes to show that they can begin treating patients.
They have completed their initial training as ambulance service emergency medical technicians (EMTs).
They are the first group to complete the EMT training since Essex Ambulance Service became part of the new East of England Ambulance Service at the start of July.
The staff, who come from across Essex, have completed a course which included patient assessment, medical conditions and treatment, trauma management, maternity, basic and advanced life support techniques, scene management and blue-light driving.
As part of their course they spent an evening experiencing what it is like to deal with a serious road accident.
Clinical operations manager Gerry Brown, who was the course director, said: “Learning in the classroom is extremely important, but backing that up by actually experiencing what it is like to be in a car as the firefighters are removing the vehicle’s roof is even better.
“I would like to congratulate each of the 17 staff. I was impressed by the cohesion and camaraderie shown by the group as they helped each other to achieve the high level of skill required in both theory and practical elements of the course.
“I am sure they will distinguish themselves in their chosen career in the ambulance service and will go on to make the difference between life and death for many Essex people.”
Each member of the group will now work under the close supervision of experienced staff for the next year.
They must complete a portfolio of cases which will be assessed and then complete a final exam before becoming fully qualified.