Two Cardiac Arrest Patients Saved By the CVAS, Gates Paramedics and Chili Fire Crews

Every once and a while, good things do happen... On Friday morning June 10th, the CVAS was dispatched to Weidner Park (Chili Disk Golf) for a 57 year old male in cardiac arrest. When CVAS ambulance 4319 and Gates Medic 40 arrived, CPR had already been started by a town employee who was working in the park. Working together, EMS crews were able to sucsessfully defibrillate the patient as well as get a pulse and the patient breathing on his own before leaving for the hospital. This is yet another fine example of what both the American Heart Association and the Red Cross refer to as the "Chain of Survival." With trained citizen first responders in the community, those suffering sudden cardiac arrest have by far the best chance for survival.

Approximately 1 week later on Sunday June 19th (Fathers Day), the CVAS and Gates Medic 40 were dispatched for a 48 year old male having a heart attack. When CVAS ambulance 4329 arrived, the patient was found to be in cardiac arrest. The CVAS crew immediatly started CPR and requested the Chili Fire Department for assistance. Before the fire department and Medic 40 could arrive, the CVAS crew was able to deliver 2 shocks from their defibrillator. After a short on scene time, the patient was moved to the ambulance where a third shock was delivered. Gates Medic 40 assumed patient care and as a result of the patient going back into cardiac arrest, the patient was defibrillated a forth time. By the time the ambulance reached Strong, the patient had a weak pulse and was attempting to breath on his own. The patient was eventually transferred to the Intensive Care Unit where additional post cardiac arrest treatments continued. Once again, another excellant example of how a quick response and great teamwork can make a differnce in someones life.

The emergency responders all wish the patients the best and hope for a full recovery. For those interested in learning CPR or how to obtain an AED for your work place, please contact the Chili Volunteer Ambulance at (585) 889-8614 or the American Red Cross at (585) 241-4453.