By Bill Carey
EMS1
MILWAUKEE — Milwaukee County EMS crews can now administer whole blood transfusions directly at the scene for critically injured trauma patients.
The Milwaukee County Office of Emergency Management explained that this initiative aims to enhance prehospital care. Previously, patients had to wait until reaching the hospital for such lifesaving treatment, a delay that could mean the difference between life and death. A recent study found that patients who received a blood transfusion within six minutes of EMS contact had a 7% mortality rate, compared to 32% for those who waited 30 minutes, according to a statement from the agency.
“This initiative is a testament to our commitment to pioneering improvements in emergency care, empowering our first responders, and, most importantly, saving lives,” Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley told WISN. “I am grateful to Milwaukee County OEM for bringing this initiative to fruition and providing the resources, training, and logistics for the municipal EMS departments.”
The Wauwatosa Fire Department is one agency carrying whole blood thanks to the initiative, FOX 6 Now reported.
“We’re the first fire-based EMS system in the State of Wisconsin to be doing this, so we’re pretty excited,” Wauwatosa Fire Assistant Chief Barbara Kadrich said. “We’re carrying the blood, because we never know how long it will take us to get that patient with an injury to the hospital.”
Ambulance blood supplies are monitored, with unused blood returned to the Wisconsin Diagnostic Laboratory Blood Bank for hospital use before expiration.
Dr. Ben Weston, Milwaukee County chief health policy advisor, credited EMS teams and first responders for the collaborative effort.
“Best practices were evaluated and implemented based on the latest research and evidence, new guidelines and policies were created, paramedic education was developed, collaborations were fostered with the blood bank, and health system partners were engaged. This program will save lives,” Weston said.
