Crime & Safety

Portsmouth EMT / Firefighters Train to Spot, Treat Heart Attacks

Members of the Portsmouth Fire Department spent a recent Saturday getting special training to better identify and treat victims of heart attacks.

What do firefighters do with a Saturday away from work?  Train…

On Saturday, June 28, 2014 Twenty–five EMT / Firefighters spent the day in class at Roger Williams Baypoint Inn and Conference Center.  The subject covered was 12-Lead EKG and acute coronary syndrome treatment & management.

Multiple fire departments were represented at the event; 19 from Portsmouth, 3 from Prudence Island, 2 from North Smithfield, 1 from Naval Station Newport, and 1 from West Warwick Fire Department.  Portsmouth Fire Department planned and coordinated the event, which received vital support from Roger Williams University and the instructor and Portsmouth Resident EMT- Paramedic Brenden Hayden.

Find out what's happening in Portsmouthwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Deputy Chief Michael O’Brien states, “I very proud to see the dedication of these responders; they gave up their time to learn a skill that can make all the difference for someone having a heart attack.  I am also extremely happy to see 60% of our department trained in a single day”.  Many members have already received this training; the goal of the department is to have all responders trained by September.

The ability to perform and interpret a 12 Lead EKG allows responders to identify patients having a heart attack, provide them with the proper treatment, and transport them to the proper facility.  Portsmouth Ambulances have the ability to transmit the 12 Lead EKG to the receiving hospital; allowing them early notification and the ability to prepare treatment for the incoming patient.

Find out what's happening in Portsmouthwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

O’Brien credits EMT – Paramedic Brenden Hayden with delivering complicated and technical information in a manner that is easy to understand and retain. Mr. Hayden has more than twenty years of EMS experience; he is a very knowledgeable and creditable instructor.

Brenden Hayden speaking of the host department provided this quote:

"Portsmouth Fire Department has truly demonstrated their dedication to the citizens of this community. Early recognition of heart attacks is essential and good decisions regarding what facility to transport to is imperative to help save lives and valuable heart muscle. Portsmouth EMT's continue to hone their skills and knowledge to provide the highest quality patient care"

The responders of Portsmouth Fire Department would like convey their gratitude to Brenden Hayden for sharing his knowledge and expertise with the EMT’s.  The Department would also like to commend Roger Williams University for supporting our efforts and contributing to the community. 


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

To request removal of your name from an arrest report, submit these required items to arrestreports@patch.com.