SFD Paramedic Darin Neiwert and John Gilbert Receives Spokane County ALS Provider of the Year 2009

THE INCIDENT:  On August 27, 2008 SFD Engine 4 was dispatched to a reported an accident involving a dump truck.  On arrival the crew found that a dump truck had run over a 9-year old child playing near the back of the truck as it was in reverse, essentially backing over the child. The child was using a self-propelled scooter and was wearing helmet, knee/elbow pads.  The SFD’s Medical Director, Scott Edminster was also on-scene and assisted Engine 4 as they immediately recognized the; kinematics, early signs of shock in the pediatric patient and gut feeling of the paramedics which led them to immediately called Medical Control and request a trauma activation while loading the patient for rapid transport.  The crew continued care with AMR in the ambulance during transport while Dr. Edminster remained with the family explaining the situation and answering the father’s questions. The quick actions by Engine 4 and Dr. Edminster were directly responsible for this patient surviving.  She has sustained multiple follow-up surgeries and procedures, however is extremely thankful for Engine 4’s competence and compassion. 

(John Gilbert was not available at the County EMS Award's Ceremony for a photo)