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Conn. paramedics, firefighters recognized for saving 6-year-old in respiratory distress

New Haven AMR paramedics and firefighters were recognized for rapid CPR, airway management and medication administration for a child in life-threatening respiratory distress from a severe asthma attack

By Josh LaBella
New Haven Register

NEW HAVEN, Conn. — City firefighters and paramedics from American Medical Response will be honored this week for saving the life of a young girl during a medical emergency in December, officials say.

New Haven Mayor Justin Elicker said firefighters were the first to respond to the scene, with paramedics following shortly after, when 6-year-old SummerRanae was experiencing respiratory arrest on the morning of Dec. 10.

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Elicker said first responders began CPR and aggressive airway management, with a firefighter/EMT issuing medications to prevent cardiac arrest.

In a release, AMR said the 6-year-old was experiencing life-threatening respiratory distress from a severe asthma attack. It said the professionals at the scene performed “critical, life-saving interventions to stabilize the patient” before they transported her to Yale New Haven Hospital for treatment.

Elicker said SummerRanae recovered in the hospital. He said staff there reported that, if it weren’t for the first responders, she would not be alive.

“Our firefighters, every single day, are responding to emergencies and helping save lives in the city,” he said. “It’s inspiring to see that work being done.”

AMR said Elicker and hospital staff will honor the first responders for their work at an event at Yale New Haven Hospital on Wednesday morning. It said the girl and her family will be in attendance.

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