What Should I Do?

Thrive · ‎08-03-2011

A couple of days ago I had to call an ambulance for my father. Upon the attendant arriving, I began to tell him the issues about my dad. He curtly stated that he wanted to speak to my dad. A few minutes after that he made a statement about us calling an ambulance only because he was shaking severely. After a few additional minutes, he decided to take him to the hospital. My dad ended up staying there for four days. My friend and I both thought he was arrogant. I asked if she thought I should write a letter in reference to this guy's arrogance. She said that she thought it might be risky in case the same guy should have to come back again on another call. I want to write the letter. However, I don't know how to avoid any issues with this guy if he should return on a future call. Do you think I could ask the supervisor to refrain from using our personal information or simply request that he never come back again. What do you think I should do?

TeezNu · ‎03-10-2010

My opinion, just let this go, that is, as long as the attendant gave your dad the proper medical attention and care which is the most important thing. I have been in the same situation with my parents, and you are very stressed and scared, and in their attempts to quickly assess the situation the responders can be very short and direct.

“There are two ways to be rich: One is by acquiring much, and the other is by desiring little.” —Jackie French Koller

Thrive · ‎08-03-2011

That is true. I guess I need to look at both sides.

Thank You!

Desi · ‎03-09-2010

I also think you should try to let it go. If the patient is coherent it's always better to talk to them than get it second-hand, even if you are the DD. Your dad must have been more than just shaken up for a 4 day stay. Be happy he is okay. Some people have lousy people skills but are good at their jobs - like helping your dad.

Thrive · ‎08-03-2011

Thank You!

Plaid Pants2 · ‎03-14-2015

In your haste to tell the EMT about your dad, you were getting in the way of him doing his job.

Try to see it from his side.

You go on an emergency call.

As you try to assess the patient, the frantic daughter keeps talking to you.

So, yes, he may have been "curt", but he might have only been that way, in order to for him to finish taking care of your father.

Thrive · ‎08-03-2011

Yes, I am looking at it from his side now.

NYwoman · ‎03-09-2010

I would also drop it. If you have a friend who is a medical professional, ask their opinion on the situation.

The ambulance EMT must make quick and professional calls. They must do so by working with the patient. They cannot allow interpersonal dynamics to play any part in their decisions. They don't know your family. You may have been emotional and they needed to see the patient first. If it is an emergency, seconds count.

What you read as arrogance may have been professional objectivity. He was there to assess, care for, and transport your father.

blackhole99 · ‎08-22-2013

As far as I know once you call an ambulance and an EMT is involved there is a list of protocols they must follow. I'm sure he was assessing your father and really was not interested in what you had to say at that point. He may have been short with you, but I have a feeling he was just doing his job. If your father got the care he needed that's what matters most, I would forget about it.

RedTop · ‎09-01-2010

Also in agreement with letting it go, as the EMT was only doing his job. While he heard everything you said to him, it was more important for him to see, and assess your father both mentally and physically. When the patient is alert and able to speak for themselves, it is important for them to describe their health issue to medical personnel.