Dromana grandmother gives thanks to Paramedic and Call Taker
July 5, 2024in News
Paramedic Rebecca Mobbs and Triple Zero Victoria Call Taker Stu Atkins paid a visit to a former stroke patient this week, reuniting after she made a full recovery.
Dromana grandmother Laura Edgerton was spending time with family in April this year when she took a turn and her family jumped into action.
The 76-year-old was enjoying a cup of coffee when her daughters noticed her face began to droop and she wasn’t as responsive as she was just moments before.
Her 21-year-old grandson, Jarrod Musticone, made the quick call to 000 and it was noted by Stuart how calm and informative he was.
The fast identification of the signs of stroke by both Jarrod and Stuart meant help was on its way sooner.
(L to R) Triple Zero Victoria Call Taker Stu Atkins, Paramedic Rebecca Mobbs, patient Laura Edgerton and her grandson Jarrod Muscitone.
Thanks to quick intervention, Laura got the care she needed which led to a positive outcome and on Wednesday, 3 July, she had the chance to thank some of the people involved in her case.
Rebecca Mobbs said paramedics first found Laura showing significant symptoms.
“During the period of initial treatment, her symptoms appeared to resolve, and we transported her to Frankston Hospital.
“However, on the way, her symptoms reappeared significantly, and she deteriorated rapidly in the ambulance.
Laura had scans at Frankston Hospital which showed a significant clot and required further transport by MICA crews to Monash Hospital in Clayton for definitive care.
“The MICA crews performed vital treatment and did a fantastic job at the scene and in transporting Laura to Clayton,” Rebecca said.
“It’s lovely to see a patient in person once they’ve fully recovered.
“Time is of the essence when someone is having a stroke, so it’s important for everyone to know how to identify symptoms using F.A.S.T.”
Laura said the incident was a true team effort between paramedics, call takers and her family.
“It goes to show if you act straight away then there’s a better chance of a good outcome,” she said.
“Rebecca was so reassuring and made me feel really relaxed on the way to the hospital.
“I think we spoke about travel, and she didn’t make me feel as though something was seriously wrong, which was amazing.
“I’m so grateful for everyone involved in my case and it was wonderful to catch up with Rebecca and Stuart to thank them in person.”
The F.A.S.T signs of a stroke:
- Face: check their face – has it drooped?
- Arms: can they raise both arms?
- Speech: is their speech slurred and do they understand you?
- Time: if you notice any of these signs, call 000 immediately.
Learn more about the F.A.S.T signs and about stroke symptoms at the Stroke Foundation’s website.