Ky. Paramedic Students, Instructor Help Crash Victim

Feb. 29--It was an incredibly proud moment this weekend for one Eastern Kentucky University instructor as he saw four of his students excel in a real-life situation.

On their way back from a conference in Maryland, EKU instructor David Fifer and four EKU Paramedic Program students were put to the test Saturday night when they drove upon a single-vehicle wreck in West Virginia.

"It was gratifying as an instructor to see how well they worked," Fifer said Monday. "My primary concern was everyone's safety, but they really had every thing under control. It was impressive to me, and it was also an affirmation that we have good students, who work hard at their studies and are able to help people when needed."

The group said when they were driving past the scene they asked bystanders if any help was needed, and the answer was "yes!" The group then checked to make sure their help was needed, and "it looked like the guy needed help," Fifer said.

Decked out in "flip-flops and sneakers," group members wasted little time jumping into action, despite having very few tools at their disposal. They said all they had were some trauma shears, a pen light and lots of pens -- all courtesy of the conference.

"It was a different type of situation," said Leah Gaddis, a senior from Richmond and paramedic in Madison County. "You don't have any of your tools that you usually use. It was just you."

Jon Gaddis, a senior from Corbin and paramedic in Laurel County, said they were able to get a good amount of medical history from the man, including medications he was on and any allergies he might have.

Brad Harp added, it was very similar to accidents he's responded to as a paramedic. However, it was frustrating to try and help someone with limited resources.

"It was just like work where you never know what's going to happen," said Harp, a senior from Lexington and paramedic in Laurel and Estill counties.

The group said it was learning experience and showed them their long nights of studying were worth it. It also showed them how well they could work together.

"It's a great feeling because with all the training and knowledge you've acquired, you can be of great use to somebody when they least expect it," Leah said. "I think it was that guy's lucky day that we just happened to be driving by."

Jon added, "It was a different experience being on the bystander side of it. It gave us a perspective that we can really work with when we arrive on scene. That's not an opportunity that presents itself often."

While three of the group members are currently paramedics, senior Ashley Brosmer said it reassured her she's going into the right field.

"This is where I want to be," the Plainfield, Ind., native said. "The way I reacted in that type situation, I felt like this was where I should be. It was a good feeling."

Fifer said he was proud of all of his students with the way they acted and how they wanted to help. They didn't have to and we could have kept driving, he added.

"It does reaffirm they are in this career for the right reasons," Fifer said.

Jonathan Greene is the editor of The Richmond Register; follow him on Twitter @jgreeneRR.

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