Indianapolis EMS to Offer Paid EMT Trainee Program

Posted on by Brian Vanbokkelen

Indianapolis EMS to Offer Paid EMT Trainee Program

Indianapolis – Indianapolis EMS (IEMS) is launching its next cohort of a training and employment program designed to offer participants a paid pathway to emergency medical technician (EMT) certification and employment with the service upon completion. This unique opportunity will provide an entry point to a life-long heath care career.

Applications are now being accepted for the EMT Trainee program which is available for residents, with no prior EMS experience, to be hired as full-time, benefited employees of IEMS to complete an accelerated EMT certification program and then continue their employment as an EMT, working on an ambulance. The education, training and certification part of the program will take approximately 10 weeks. This is an ideal opportunity for anyone who has been interested in a career in either EMS or health care in general, as it provides a paid pathway to a growing, in demand career.

“Working in EMS puts you on the front lines of both public safety and public health, serving your community,” said Dr. Dan O’Donnell, chief of IEMS. “Many people have interest in a health care career, but personal circumstances have made it difficult to pursue. The EMT Trainee program is a fully paid opportunity to enter the world of EMS, to work and learn simultaneously, and have access to a pathway for career growth thanks to our continuing education and tuition reimbursement opportunities for employees.”

The EMT Trainee program is open to anyone at least 18 years of age with a high school diploma or equivalent and meets driver’s license requirements. Those interested in applying for the program must submit an application by April 1, with the program formally beginning May 9. This can be linked through the “careers” section of IndianapolisEMS.org. For additional information, a series of virtual information sessions will be held on March 14 at 6 p.m. and March 23 at 6 p.m. To RSVP for one of these sessions, please text IEMS to 317.597.8069.

Media availabilities should be directed to Brian Van Bokkelen.

Indianapolis EMS Partners for Pediatric Seizure Study

Posted on by Brian Vanbokkelen

CONTACT: Brian Van Bokkelen 
Email: brian.vanbokkelen@indianapolisems.org 

Indianapolis EMS Partners for Pediatric Seizure Study 

Indianapolis – Indianapolis EMS (IEMS) is partnering for a study aimed at standardizing the process for paramedics to administer seizure medication to children. The results of this study could lead to substantial improvements in outcomes for childhood seizures. 

Seizures are one of the most common reasons for people to call for an ambulance for a child, and those that don’t stop on their own can be life-threatening. Paramedics currently have medications available to treat seizures, but delays can occur due to having to calculate how much to administer or how to administer it. The Pediatric Dose Optimization for Seizures in EMS (PediDOSE) trial will evaluate if an age-based, calculation-free method of quickly giving the right medication dose improves outcomes in children. Participating agencies will replace the conventional methods for calculating the midazolam dose, the drug most commonly used to treat seizures, with a new standardized treatment plan. The study will focus on children six months to 13 years of age, who are experiencing seizures and being treated and transported by IEMS. 

“In medical emergencies, a paramedic is usually the very first contact with the patient and they are qualified to administer life-saving medications on scene,” said Nancy Glober, M.D., IEMS deputy medical director. “We are hopeful that the results of this PediDOSE study will provide new guidance to decrease the time needed to determine and administer the appropriate dose of midazolam needed to stop a pediatric seizure, therefore improving the chance of a positive outcome.” 

IEMS is one of 20 EMS organizations across the country participating in this study, which will enroll patients for approximately four years. Participating EMS agencies will be randomly assigned a timeline for adopting the standardized treatment plan. This will allow researchers to compare the new standardized treatment plan to current methods and ensure safe implementation of the new standardized protocol. 

“When seconds count, administering the appropriate medication or treatment quickly means everything,” said Gregory Faris, M.D., IEMS pediatric medical director. “We are excited to be part of this important study, which could greatly impact our seizure treatment protocols.” 

The official start date of the study in Marion County is still to be determined and participants will be enrolled under an exception from informed consent process that follows federal rules for emergency research. 

Media availabilities should be directed to Brian Van Bokkelen. 

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Indianapolis EMS is the largest provider of emergency pre-hospital medical care in the state, responding to more than 120,000 911 calls each year. As a partnership between the City of Indianapolis, Indiana University School of Medicine, and Health & Hospital Corporation of Marion County, with Eskenazi Health as the supervising health system, IEMS strives to provide the best pre-hospital medical services to the community through the endless pursuit of excellence in patient-centered care, education, efficiency, efficacy, safety, and quality of service. Our mission: Right care. Every patient. Every time.

To learn more about IEMS, visit www.IndianapolisEMS.org. You can also follow IEMS on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/IndianapolisEMS), Twitter (http://twitter.com/IndianapolisEMS) and Instagram (http://instagram.com/IndianapolisEMS).

Don’t be a Turkey, Enjoy Thanksgiving Safely this Year

Posted on by Rachel Harkin

Thanksgiving is just around the corner and while Indianapolis EMS is excited to celebrate with our family and friends, we want to remind all Marion County residents to have a safe and accident free Thanksgiving. Before celebrating and indulging in your favorite Thanksgiving foods, take a moment to read the below tips on having a fun and safe Thanksgiving.

Kitchen Dangers

While the kitchen might be a main gathering area in your home, it’s important to understand the dangers or safety hazards the kitchen may present during the holiday season.

  • Keep the kitchen crowd to a minimum.
  • Never leave cooking food unattended.
  • Children are especially susceptible to injuries in the kitchen. It’s important to keep knives and sharp cooking utensils out of reach while keeping your smallest guests away from hot stoves and liquids such as coffee or gravy.
  • Don’t forget to keep the kitchen tidy while cooking. Dangling cords and clutter can create tripping hazards and cause injury to guests.

Frying up a Thanksgiving Feast

Skipping the oven this year and deep frying your Thanksgiving turkey? Make sure to practice safe frying this Thanksgiving with these below tips.

  • Keep the deep fryer at least ten feet away from the house.
  • Fry on flat ground to keep the fryer level and steady to avoid spilling hot oil.
  • Thaw and dry your turkey. Extra water will cause the oil to bubble furiously and spill over. If oil spills from the fryer onto the burner, it can cause a fire.
  • Monitor the temperature closely to avoid overheating of the deep fryer and potentially causing severe burns.
  • Be prepared. Keeping a fire extinguisher nearby can help stop a fire in the off chance the oil ignites.

By following these tips, you and your Thanksgiving guests can enjoy the holiday happily and safely. As always, never hesitate to dial 911 for all emergency situations and take necessary lifesaving actions prior to the arrival of emergency medical services. 

October is Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month

Posted on by Rachel Harkin

Did you know sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is the leading cause of death in the United States? SCA is a life-threatening emergency and occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating, an individual collapses and does not respond or breathe normally. As October is Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month, Indianapolis EMS (IEMS) wants everyone to know the difference between SCA and a heart attack, the importance of dialing 911 and starting CPR right away in the event of SCA.

Image courtesy of stopcardiacarrest.org

 

The survival of a SCA victim is dependent on immediate life saving measures such as CPR or the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED) and calling 911 immediately. By doing CPR or using an AED prior to the arrival of emergency medical services, the chances of survival increase for SCA victims. For more information about SCA, please visit https://stopcardiacarrest.org/. As always, IEMS reminds everyone to dial 911 for all emergency situations and encourages bystanders to take necessary lifesaving actions prior to the arrival of emergency medical services. 

Helpful Tips for Preventing Falls this Month

Posted on by Rachel Harkin

Each year one in four Americans ages 65 and older fall resulting in both fatal and non-fatal injuries including fractured hips, broken bones and head injuries. Many times falls lead to depression or fear among older adults, making it difficult for them to stay active. This month for Falls Prevention Week beginning Sept. 20 through Sept. 24, Indianapolis EMS (IEMS) and the National Council on Aging (NCOA) reminds individuals to help reduce the risk of falls among their grandparents, parents and neighbors by following the below tips to keep those close to you healthy and active.

  • Enlist their support in taking simple steps to stay safe.
    • Ask your older loved ones if they are concerned or know the risks of falling. If they are concerned, have them speak with their health care provider about assessing their risk of falling to help prevent future injuries.
  • Discuss their current health conditions.
    • If your loved one is experiencing problems with their health or having difficulties managing their health, help them set up a wellness exam with their health care provider.
  • Ask about their last eye checkup.
    • Poor vision or difficulty seeing can cause older individuals to fall more easily. Have them visit their eye doctor for an updated vision screening more frequently as they age.
  • Notice if they’re holding onto walls, furniture, or someone else when walking or if they appear to have difficulty walking or arising from a chair.
    • These are all signs that it might be time to see a physical therapist. A trained physical therapist can help your older loved one improve their balance, strength, and gait through exercise.
  • Talk about their medications.
    • If your loved ones are having trouble keeping track of their medications or experiencing negative side effects, have them speak with their health care provider. Incorrect use of medications can create unforeseen fall risks for older individuals. Medication regimens should be assessed regularly by medical professionals.
  • Do a walk-through safety assessment of their home.
    • There are many simple and inexpensive ways to make a home safer. For professional assistance, consult an Occupational Therapist. To help reduce falls, you can help your loved ones adjust home lighting, stairs and bathrooms to help prevent falling.
      • Lighting- increase lighting in areas of the home that are poorly lit or create hard to see tripping hazards.
      • Stairs- Check to make sure railings are secure and are placed on both sides of the stairs.

Bathrooms- Install grab bars in the tub/shower and near the toilet. Make sure they’re installed where your older loved one would actually use them. For even greater safety, consider using a shower chair and hand-held shower.

For more information about fall prevention, please visit the NCOA website at https://www.ncoa.org/professionals/health/center-for-healthy-aging/national-falls-prevention-resource-center/falls-prevention-awareness-week. IEMS wishes everyone a safe and healthy start to the fall season this year reminds anyone experiencing a medical emergency to dial 9-1-1 immediately.

Back to school

Posted on by Rachel Harkin

It’s that time of year again, back to school. With central Indiana schools going back to in-person learning, more children will be at bus stops getting on and off their school bus. Indianapolis EMS wants to ensure everyone makes it to their destination safely this school year and reminds individuals to follow these back to school safety tips.

Bus Stop Safety

At the Bus Stop

  • Arrive early
  • Stand at least six feet from the curb
  • Avoid running around or playing while you wait

When the Bus Arrives or Departs

  • Never walk behind the bus, always cross the street at least ten feet in front of the bus.
  • Make eye contact with the bus driver to make sure he or she sees you crossing the street.
  • If you drop something in front of the bus, let the bus driver know right away.

Drivers

  • When backing out of your driveway, double check for children walking on the sidewalk to the bus stop.
  • When driving in neighborhoods, slow down. Watch for children waiting at bus stops or walking to their stop.
  • Be alert. Children running late to the bus stop may dart into the street without looking.
  • Stop when the bus stops.
    • Yellow flashing lights- these indicate the bus is preparing to stop to load or unload children. Slow down and be prepared to stop.
    • Red flashing lights and extended stop arms- Indiana state law requires motorists to stop when a school bus is picking up or dropping off children.

IEMS wishes everyone a safe and healthy school year and encourages parents and drivers to read more about back to school safety online at https://www.in.gov/isp/2887.htm.

Stay Healthy this Summer

Posted on by Rachel Harkin

With temperatures on the rise this month, Indianapolis EMS (IEMS) wants Hoosiers to stay cool this summer and avoid heat related illnesses which occur when the body is unable to adequately cool itself. Typically the body will cool itself through sweating, but during extreme heat this may not be enough. Heat related illnesses cause the body’s temperature to rise faster with the inability to cool itself down in a normal amount of time. Heat related illnesses can cause damage to the brain and other vital organs. IEMS encourages outdoor goers to follow the below tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to avoid heat related illnesses.

Stay Cool

  • Wear appropriate clothing – lightweight, light-colored loose fitting clothing items are best.
  • Stay cool inside – hanging out indoors with air conditioning is ideal.
  • Schedule outdoor activities appropriately – exercising or playing outside in the morning is best to avoid extreme heat.
  • Wear sunscreen – sunburns contribute to dehydration. Wearing sunscreen can help prevent sunburns from occurring.
  • NEVER leave children or animals in vehicles – cars quickly heat up to dangerous temperatures in the summer, causing occupants to suffer from heat stroke or death.

Stay Hydrated

  • Drink plenty of fluids – drinking water while outside is best. It is recommended each person drink at least one gallon of water each day. Stay away from alcoholic and sugary drinks when outside as these may increase dehydration.
  • Replace salt and minerals – sports drinks can help replace needed salt and minerals you lose while sweating.

Be Summer Smart

  • Stay informed – check local news for updates on the heat index and outside temperatures.
  • Know the signs – learn the signs and symptoms of heat related illnesses.
  • Use the buddy system – if working outside or participating in outside activities, check in on those around you often, including elderly neighbors or anyone who might not have air conditioning at their home.

IEMS wants all Hoosiers to enjoy the summer safely. Learn more about heat related illnesses and how to prevent them at https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/heattips.html. Please remember to call 9-1-1 during emergency situations.

 

Stay Cool, Stay Safe this Summer at the Pool

Posted on by Rachel Harkin

Whether you’re heading to the neighborhood pool or to your own backyard oasis, make sure you’re water competent this summer before diving in.

As drowning is the leading cause of death for children, it’s important to improve your family’s water competency to have an enjoyable, safe summer. The below tips from the American Red Cross can help prevent water dangers and help you respond quicker to water emergencies.

Water Smarts

  • Know your physical and medical limitations
  • Never swim alone
  • Swim sober
  • Wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved life vest
  • Know how to call for help

Learn Swimming Safety Skills

  • Enter water that is over your head, then return to the surface
  • Float or tread water for one minute
  • Swim a minimum of 25 yards
  • Exit the water

Helping Others

  • Watch children or weaker swimmers closely
  • Know the signs of drowning
  • Safely assist drowning persons- “reach or throw, don’t go”
  • Perform CPR and first-aid

IEMS wishes everyone a safe, fun summer and reminds Hoosiers to dial 9-1-1 in case of emergency. To learn more about water safety through the American Red Cross website.

 

 

 

Ladies and Gentlemen, Start Your Engines!

Posted on by Rachel Harkin

The greatest spectacle in racing is back and Indianapolis EMS (IEMS) reminds Hoosiers watching the Indy 500 in person to enjoy the race responsibly and safely this year. Before heading to the track, make sure you’re prepared for a day in the sun and follow all health and safety guidelines set forth by the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Beat the Heat

We understand you’re excited to be back at the track after a year off, but make sure you take the necessary precautions to reduce the risk heat exhaustion or too much sun exposure. Here are some helpful tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Preventions (CDC).

  • Stay hydrated– Water is the best beverage of choice to help reduce dehydration while outside for extended time periods. 
  •         Make your own shade– while you may not be able to watch the race under the shade, you can make your own through the use of an umbrella or wide brimmed hat.
  •        Choose the right clothing– Long-sleeved shirts, long pants and skirts can provide protection from UV rays. While wearing this type of clothing may not be practical for race day, try to wear a T-shirt or a beach cover-up. Clothes made from tightly woven fabric offer the best protection. 
  •          Hats– wearing a wide brimmed hat helps protect your face, ears and neck. If wearing a baseball cap, make sure you’re protecting your ears and next with sunscreen. Avoid straw hats with holes that let sunlight through. A darker hat may offer more UV protection.
  •          Sunglasses– Eyewear helps protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. They also protect the tender skin around your eyes from sun exposure. Sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays offer the best protection. 
  •      Sunscreen– Put on broad spectrum sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB rays and has an SPF of 15 or higher before you go outside. Don’t forget to put a thick layer on all exposed skin. Get help for hard-to-reach places like your back. And remember, sunscreen works best when combined with other options.

 Adhere to all Health and Safety Guidelines

We’re all #INThisTogether and it’s important to follow all health and safety guidelines set forth by the Indianapolis Motor Speedway to keep all spectators, employees and racers safe. This year, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway are requiring the following from all spectators:

  •          Mask Up– Visitors over the age of four will be required to wear a face covering at all times. Complimentary masks will be available for those entering the venue.
  •          Social Distance– Maintain a safe, social distance between you and other spectators; especially in historically crowded areas such as restrooms, concession stands, and gates. 

Interested in learning more about what to expect during race day? Visit the Indianapolis Motor Speedway website at https://www.indianapolismotorspeedway.com/planyourvisit/indy-500

Drink Responsibly

If enjoying an alcoholic beverage during the race it’s important to remember the sun can intensify the effects alcohol can have on your body. Remember to not over indulge in alcoholic beverages while out in the sun. Finally, buzzed driving is drunk driving. If you feel different, you’ll drive different. Make sure you have a sober, designated driver to drive home after the race if necessary.

IEMS is excited to be back at the track this year, but wants all spectators to enjoy the race safely this year. Make sure to follow the above safety tips to help ensure a fun and safe race weekend!