During a session at the International Association of Women in Fire & Emergency Services, personnel were treated to a lively discussion about what can get them and their departments in hot water.
To demonstrate how uncomfortable it is for someone to be grilled on the witness stand, Attorney Melissa Elwell had four students read transcripts from one of her trials.
The case involved equipment malfunctions that occurred while a seriously injured crash victim was trapped. The man, a father, died of his injuries.
Clearly, the witnesses were not comfortable as Elwell asked questions about the suction unit that didn't work and the extrication tool that failed.
Elwell, who also is a paramedic in Vermont, said there are a number of things that fire and EMS personnel can do to keep them off the witness stand or signing a check.
One of the potential pitfalls involves complacency when the call comes in from a "frequent flyer" or a person who appears to be intoxicated. Not doing a complete exam can be costly.
"Get your head in the game," Elwell said. "Focus."
While it may be difficult, everything else in your life needs to be set aside while you're at work. "Forget the bills. Forget the issues with the kids or the spouse."
On the way to the call, discuss with your partner how things will be addressed.
Another issue that may be tough is eliminating the good old boys or girls club. "If something is wrong, you have to speak up. You can't cover it up," she said, adding that improper care or failing to follow protocols should not be tolerated.
Personnel also should be aware of what constitutes sexual harassment. It's essential that people address inappropriate behavior and not let it continue.
Being in a hostile work environment impacts decision making, and Elwell said people responsible for taking care of patients need to be at the top of their game at all times.
Susan Nicol | News Editor
Susan Nicol is the news editor for Firehouse.com. She is a life member and active with the Brunswick Volunteer Ambulance & Rescue Company, Oxford Fire Company and Brunswick Vol. Fire Co. Susie has been an EMT in Maryland since 1976. Susie is vice-president of the Frederick County Fire/Rescue Museum. She is on the executive committee of Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association. She also is part of the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS) Region II EMS Council. Susie is a board member of the American Trauma Society, Maryland Division. Prior to joining the Firehouse team, she was a staff writer for The Frederick News-Post, covering fire, law enforcement, court and legislative issues.
