4 Iowa EMS providers cited after medic allegedly gave intoxicated EMT IV fluids

Two of the providers were cited for allegedly witnessing the incident and not preventing or reporting it


By Laura French

LINN COUNTY, Iowa — Four Iowa EMS providers were cited by the state Department of Public Health after one allegedly gave another IV fluids to treat intoxication while off duty. 

The three paramedics and one EMT received citations and warnings for "professional incompetency" stemming from a Feb. 11 incident at the EMT's home, where state health officials say she became intoxicated and then asked one of the paramedics to start an IV for her, according to The Gazette.

Four Iowa EMS providers were cited and warned after one allegedly gave another IV fluids for intoxication while off duty.
Four Iowa EMS providers were cited and warned after one allegedly gave another IV fluids for intoxication while off duty. (Photo/cottonbro, Pexels)

The paramedic allegedly administered IV fluids to the EMT using equipment that was stored at the EMT's home. Two other paramedics were also reportedly present during the incident and were cited for not preventing or reporting the violation. 

The EMS providers were warned that further violations could result in additional disciplinary, including suspension and revocation of their certifications. 

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On this episode of Inside EMS, our host, Chris Cebollero, is joined by EMS1 Columnist and Editorial Advisory Board Member, Rob Lawrence, to discuss the off-duty incident.

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