TF EMT receives state award

 

Courtesy Photo

EMT Victoria Russell, far left, with Thompson Falls Ambulance received the Children Pediatric EMS Award for her role in demonstrating excellence in providing pediatric EMS care.

The Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) honored Montana Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel from several cities around the state, including Victoria Russell of Thompson Falls, during an awards ceremony May 19 at the Capitol Building in Helena. The event was part of National Emergency Medical Services Week held May 16-20 and EMS for Children Day on May 19.

Gov. Greg Gianforte served as the keynote speaker and presented awards to each recipient. He addressed attending personnel at the ceremony, thanking them for their life-saving services.

"You took over 130,000 calls this past year alone," Gianforte stated. "When people were in distress, they called out for help, and you were there." The governor also stated that 7,000 of the calls received this year involved children who were experiencing illness or injury.

Victoria Russell with Thompson Falls Ambulance received the Children Pediatric EMS Award. This award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated excellence in providing pediatric EMS care and education. The awardee serves as an outstanding role model for colleagues while consistently demonstrating commitment to high-quality, professional EMS care to the pediatric patient.

Russell began her career in service as a firefighter in 2010, working for Noxon Rural Fire Department.

"In 2012, I became licensed as an Emergency Medical Responder and moved up to an EMT the following year," she said. Russell said it was an incredible feeling when she found out she was nominated. "I felt very blessed and honored to receive the award," she stated.

Russell serves as the secretary for Thompson Falls Ambulance and is working toward becoming the Pediatric Emergency Care coordinator. When asked why she made the decision to move into this particular field, Russell said, "I just love kids, and I've had a few calls that have made me realize that children are a whole different subject in themselves."

Russell said that because of the different approach that children require in a medical emergency, she wants to be fully prepared to handle every situation that comes her way. "If I get that call, I want to be able to take care of the kids to the best of my ability and make sure everyone else around me can as well." Because of her dedication, Russell has made contacts in Helena who will help her receive more thorough training for her future career plans.

"I have observed many times during emergency calls her amazing ability to connect with children of all ages in a calming way," said Mark Bronner with Thompson Falls Ambulance, who has worked closely with Russell. "For any child to be involved in an emergency situation can be very stressful and emotional, but Victoria has a way of communicating to children and understanding their needs."

 

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