blackelkmedicine

I feel that Terry's parents are being selfish, trying to save themselves from the heartache of losing a loved one. Although I dont agree with the method (starvation), Legislaters have NO place in a families personal, private, medical tragedy. Families make these decisions everyday. Why is this case so special? Because its for political gain. Dont be fooled. Where has the legislature been all these past years and past cases? If I was able to talk to the Schiavo family, I would tell them to end the miserable, hopeless, existance that thier daughter is in, and let her finally go to god and find peace. She, like any of us, would not want to be kept alive like this, and then paraded all over the media! Caution America! Lets keep Pandoras box tightly locked, and keep the govt. OUT of our private affairs. :twisted:

The ALS service I work for covers both urban and rural. We still depend on volunteers for mostly transport. Its not unusual at all to be on scene 1 hr. or more awaiting transport. The closet town to a hospital we cover is approx. 10 min. transport. The furthest town from the hospital we cover is at least 1/2 ride. Even balls to the wall. Scene time is extended more in the wee hours, obviously, so stable or critical, its an 1 1/2-2hr call. But, on the positive side, dont you agree it makes for a better paramedic? Extended pt. care, extended tx's. down the algorrythyms. Less support staff? We still split crews in this area, I've been alone on scene many times awaiting help. I usually deputize a family member to be my "assistant". lol. What else can you do? The look on the E.R. staff's face is funny, when u report a total of 10 epi's. (3-5 min. protocol.) Until they understand the distance. Long distance sucks! But it does keep you sharp.