Training improves ability to respond to heart attacks

    PRESQUE ISLE – Having critical information as soon as possible in an emergency leads to better patient outcomes. If you are having a heart attack, a diagnostic test called 12-Lead Electrocardiogram (ECG) may save your life.  As a result of a recent training that was offered in Presque Isle, emergency medical technicians (EMTs) from Crown Ambulance and other ambulance services around the region can now diagnose certain conditions sooner and act on the information they receive prior to arrival at the hospital.
    The ECG test run by paramedic and intermediate EMTs is interpreted, assessed and used to make informed decisions on patient care.
    According to Perry Jackson, interim manager of The Aroostook Medical Center’s Crown Ambulance Services, “an ECG appears very simple; an emergency responder attaches what look like sticky pads to your chest and evaluates the information that appears on a monitor. The results help determine the best treatment options. The 12-Lead ECG cuts down on the time it takes to treat patients in certain emergency situations.”
    Bob Page, the creator of the program Multi-Lead Medics™, recently held a two-day workshop in Presque Isle to teach EMTs how to interpret a 12-lead ECG. The workshop, held at the Presque Isle Inn & Convention Center, was attended by 80 EMTs from as far away as Brunswick. The program was made possible through a collaboration of Crown Ambulance, TAMC Educational Services, County Health Education Resources, Healthy Maine Partnerships and Region 5 EMS.
    Due to the impact 12-Lead ECGs have on patient outcomes, the state of Maine has recently required that all paramedics and intermediate-level EMTs become certified in 12-Lead ECG interpretation.
    “Previously, individuals had to travel to Bangor or Portland to receive the 12-Lead training,” said Jim McKenney, vice president of Ancillary Services at The Aroostook Medical Center. “This is the type of training that can really make a difference because it can improve heart attack outcomes right here in Aroostook County.”
    The Aroostook Medical Center is a member of EMHS. Members of EMHS aggressively identify and invest in new resources, capital improvements and the latest technology to benefit the communities it serves.