Outdoor Medical Emergency Buttons Installed
Rigney standing by outdoor medical emergency button installed near Building 402
Author Ken Poirot once said to be proactive not reactive, for an apparently insignificant issue ignored today can spawn tomorrow's catastrophe.
Twana Rigney, a certified physician assistant at the Tomah VAMC, put those words into action.
After responding to numerous medical emergencies over the years, Rigney noticed many of the issues occurred outside the medical center such as in the 402 and 400 parking lots. Unless other parties witness the incident as it happens, the first responder would have to secure the scene, ensure person or persons were as safe as possible, and leave to go get help from inside the main building. As many of us know, time is of the essence especially during a medical emergency, so having to leave an injured individual increases the risks for further injuries and possibly a less favorable outcome.
To address this possibility, Rigney noted that throughout the hospital there were red telephones that one could call for immediate assistance as needed and the same should be in high traffic areas outdoors.
“I presented my idea initially with last year’s request for employees to submit ideas that could improve day-to-day functions of the facility, said Rigney.”
The concept of placing the medical emergency buttons and flashing lights we introduced to the Emergency Services Committee.
“It got carried out because it was a good idea,” said Dr. Pica, Associate Chief of Staff for Medicine Service.
Dr. Pica and the Emergency Service Committee agreed sooner an emergency could be reported, the sooner help could be administered, with hopefully a greater positive outcome.
Tammy L. Troutt, Tomah VA’s Emergency Preparedness Coordinator, heard the proposal of the system during an Emergency Management Committee meeting and saw the value in it.
“We worked with IT and Facilities to install the buttons and signs,” said Troutt.
The first medical emergency call button was installed in January.
“I am proud to say that I was an intricate part in helping those in need get the help necessary,” said Rigney.
