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Without backup and preparing for an imminent delivery
A volunteer firefighter/paramedic was in the right place at the right time for an expectant mother and her visiting family
EMS1 Unforgettable Calls is a place where EMS providers from across the country can connect to share their stories about the calls that have stayed with them, everything from responding to a family member's emergency to the memorable moment a patient thanked them for saving their life.
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I’m about to share with you the most unforgettable call I’ve experienced. As I was getting ready to leave work for McCarl’s at the Shell Polymers Monaca plant for lunch around noon, a call came through for a woman in labor.
As a volunteer firefighter/paramedic we answer calls when we are available to do so. Our fire department operates a quick response service (QRS) on a volunteer basis to offer immediate support prior to the local ambulance service arriving.
Immediately after the toned call, I headed toward the address. I was the first to arrive. The home was full of people visiting from Honduras who didn’t speak any English. Thankfully, I am bilingual and was able to communicate with them.
I was then rushed into the bedroom where the mother was laying. Upon arrival into the room, I knew it was time for an imminent delivery. At this point, I was still without backup and preparing for delivery.
Within minutes, the beautiful baby girl was born without any complications during delivery. I immediately assessed, wrapped and cared for the baby. While holding the wrapped baby, backup arrived and I was able to hand the baby to a partner and prepare to clamp the chord. The team and I then cut the chord and delivered the placenta. It was a successful and safe complete delivery.
As we loaded baby and mom into the ambulance, the company asked if I would ride with them to translate. We all rode to the nearest hospital to transfer care. After the transfer of care, the physician asked if I would stay for a moment to translate the initial meeting and provide the necessary information.
Shortly after we were released and I went back to work for McCarl’s. As soon as I could, I called my wife, Brynn, to tell her what happened as I was sweating so bad and on such a high, I couldn’t wait to tell her. It was a true blessing, I am extremely grateful we were able to be there in time and everyone went home safe!
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