RESCUE MINUTE COLUMN

By Bob Townsend, EMT-En, GCRS
Published: April 3, 2008

If you’ve called 911 and asked for the Rescue Squad, you’re probably not having a good day.  When we get to your house, there is a flurry of activity.  Some squad members will be talking to the patient and some asking the family questions.  Others are getting the cot into the house.  What appears to be chaos is actually well coordinated.
One of the questions someone will ask is what medications is the patient taking.  Sometimes we get what is referred to as the “bag-o’-meds”, usually a plastic bag with pill bottles filled to overflowing.  Some of the bottles are empty, some are expired, and some are not even the patient’s own medications.  We have to spend precious time sorting through the pile.  Other times we are told the family does not know, and the patient, for whatever reason, is unable to communicate the information.
So, what to do?  The ideal thing is to make a list.  This list should contain:
-Current medications with dosages, and when they are to be taken
-Allergies
-Medical history
-Patient name, Date of Birth, Physician, and Hospital choice.
The list should be legible, preferably typed, or printed on a computer.  After you make the list, go over it with your physician, to be sure you are both on the same page as to what you are taking.  Old medications should be discarded, not saved.  Expired meds loose potency over time.  The list should be on the refrigerator, or in an obvious location by the bedside.  Family who help with patient care should all be aware of the list’s existence and it’s location.
Even if you are not bedridden, but take medications, this list is a good idea.  It could save your life one day. Update it every time you are prescribed a new medication, or are taken off one.  There are blank lists available at most pharmacies, from local civic organizations, or at http://www.vialofilfe.com where you can print your own form.  Help us help you, and be safe.