HCA Florida Blake Hospital hosts EMS Field Day, providing life-saving training

Bradenton, FL — HCA Florida Blake Hospital hosted EMS Field Day, an event dedicated to enhancing the life-saving skills of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) professionals from across the region. Held on Saturday, April 6, the event served as a platform for training, collaboration and skill development in critical emergency situations.

“Collaboration between Blake’s trauma center and our EMS partners is vital,” said Megan Hawkins, trauma injury prevention coordinator and educator at HCA Florida Blake Hospital. “Making sure EMS has the most recent education and resources as they meet patients in the field before bringing them to the hospital improves patient outcomes.”

Highlighting the day's activities was an impressive extrication demonstration, where local firefighters showcased techniques for safely removing a patient trapped in a vehicle. This demonstration captivated the audience and underscored the importance of quick and efficient response in emergency scenarios.

“When you get to the scene of a traumatic incident, it’s important that the skills you have can kick into place immediately,” said Carol Bissinger, director of trauma services at HCA Florida Blake Hospital. “This training gives paramedics and EMTs an opportunity to practice in a non-stressful situation to build and hone their skills so it’s second nature when they intervene in a real-life emergency situation.”

The event featured a comprehensive array of training opportunities, including interactive skills stations covering topics such as burn and wound care, blood administration, pediatric patient care, managing difficult airways, stroke care and handling HAZMAT situations. Another notable component of the training was a mass casualty simulation, providing participants with invaluable experience in managing high-stress scenarios.

Over 20 agencies and organizations participated in EMS Field Day including:

• Airtrek
• Ambitrans
• Americare
• AMR
• First Response Training Group
• FRTG
• Longboat Key Fire Rescue
• Manatee County EMS
• North Port Fire Rescue
• Pedi-Ed-Trics Emergency Medical Solutions
• Sarasota County Fire Department
• Sunstar Paramedics
• West Manatee Fire Rescue
• Charlotte County Fire Rescue
• Apollo Beach Fire Department
• Sarasota Technical Institute
• Southern Manatee Fire Rescue
• Hillsborough County EMS
• Pinellas County EMS