UMDNJ Newark EMS New Rescue

[trauma74 111]

I just looked at the pics of the new UMDNJ Rescue truck. I must say that it is pretty awesome. I like UMDNJ's view on how rescue is part of overall patient care.

I would never want to take rescue services away from the FD in my area, but I think that if more EMS personnel had knowledge of rescue operation it could make for a better patient outcome.

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Newark's new Rescue (the photos can be seen on EMTBravo.com) is certainly one of the hottest deliveries of the year. I know a few members on this forum are assigned to the rescue, and hopefully they can fill us in more on how they like it.

Newark is also a great EMS system. It is hospital based, technically a state agency since it is run by a state hospital, University Of Medicine And Dentistry New Jersey (UMDNJ) I did most of my medic school ride time at UMDNJ*EMS Newark/East Orange. Newark itself is an interesting city, very inner urban with very heavily industrialized areas, including a major airport and seaport, and numerous highways, railroads, and other commercial routes interesecting the city. Crime and violence is high, as is poverty both of which bring numerous problems into the city. Gang violence is a major problem, and it causes a lot of runs for the EMS, as well as a lot of safety issues. It's a VERY busy system, seeing lots of diverse and serious medical and trauma incidents. They operate both ALS and BLS ambulances. It's not uncommon for a single unit to run anywhere between 12-20 calls in a 12 hour shift. A rather unique part of the system is that they operate their own, very talented heavy rescue. It is staffed by two senior EMT's who have done their time on the bus in Newark, who must go through rigurous steps, internship, and training to work the rescue (It's considered a promotion). They specialize (and are primary response in Newark) for automotive extrication, bariatric rescue, and technical rescue. They work very closely with the FD Rescue and PD ESU units, but they are often the lead agency on rescue incidents and are often requested into neighboring muncipalties due to their expertise, experience, and top notch equipment. You can cleary see how a rescue company fits into patient care by observing them in action on a daily basis. UMDNJ*EMS Newark also runs a very efficient communications center, as well as the Northstar Helicopter. They have a lot of special units, including dignitary protection and bioterrorism response. They also have a BLS division that's seperate that covers the City Of Camden in South Jersey. There's a ton more to the system then this short synopsis.

Also, there's a great book on the UMDNJ EMS. It was written by an author who spent 1 year riding along. It's entitled "Into The Breach", and available from Barnes and Noble, BN.com

http://search.barnesandnoble.com/booksearc...312306172&itm=1

I HIGHLY reccomend the book, it's a great glimpse into Newark EMS, and a very hardcore city to work in.........

BTW, very special thanks to BCBill for the photos!