** New Brunswick paramedic pair handed prohibition after botched call
CANADA NEWS
** A pair of New Brunswick paramedics from St. Martins have been prevented from practicing for three years, after apparently abusing a male patient in their care. CBC (May 22) said Victor and Debbie Lavigne were handed the ban by the Paramedics Association of New Brunswick following a disciplinary hearing. According to the news site, the Lavignes allegedly kicked and yelled at Greg Garnett on April 28, 2017 after being hailed to his home for excruciating back and chest pain. Garnett’s wife said the medics told her he was suffering from sciatica, while the ailment was later diagnosed as an aortic dissection. Garnett died five weeks later while still in hospital. Both Lavignes were suspended in October 2018. The hearing’s findings indicated the practitioners failed to meet minimum standards of EMS practice and knowledge. The tribunal also noted the duo did not follow documentation/communication protocols and did not do a proper assessment on Garnett. Along with losing their licences, the two were tasked with paying $7,500 in costs.
