Friday, April 29, 2011

** Western Australia’s ambulance service set to get major staffing boost

** Wisconsin man charged for threatening medics with knife

AUSTRALIA NEWS

** Western Australia’s ambulance service is getting a staffing boost, with some 309 paramedics and officers being recruited. That is the word from Big Pond News (April 28) which said Health Minister Kim Hames made the announcement of the increase Wednesday. According to the newspaper, the $149.5 million injection will see new responders put in place between now and 2015. The announcement follows 2009 public revelations which found the St. John Ambulance Service’s inadequate resources and skills base may have contributed to several avoidable deaths. Along with the additional front line workers, EMS will also see new vehicles, depots, and an IT system put into place;additionally, quality control programs will help ensure patient care is optimized.

UNITED STATES NEWS

** Wisconsin police in Jackson County have charged a man with pulling a knife on EMTs and police. The Jackson County Chronicle (Matthew Perenchio/April 27) said Carl E. Hansen, 42, has been tagged with second-degree reckless endangerment in relation to the April 4 incident. According to the newspaper, Hansen hailed EMS to his residence for breathing problems. Once on site, both he and his son, John C. Becktel, 21, threatened providers. At first unresponsive while laying on a stairway, Hansen regained consciousness, becoming disoriented and abusive. When medics tried to help him outside, he brandished his knife. Deputies removed him shortly afterwards in handcuffs. His next court appearance is May 16. Becktel, meanwhile, was charged with disorderly conduct, obstructing an officer and resisting an officer. He is expected in court May 3.