New system saves time, lives of young patients during emergencies

NORTH NAPLES, Fla.- First responders are eliminating mistakes in emergencies and they say it could mean the difference between life and death for your child.

When firefighters and paramedics get called to an emergency involving a child, seconds count and so does giving the right dosage of life-saving medicine.

Unfortunately, children aren’t one size fits all. That’s why the North Collier Fire District is implementing a new system called the Handtevy System. It gives the correct dosing information and equipment size based on a child’s age.

“We are prepared prior to actually landing on that call,” said Lt. Jodi VanSickle.

Paramedics say that saves time and lives. Right now, paramedics use a length-based system. When they get on a scene, they have to physically measure the child, then figure out the correct dosing.

The new system makes it drastically easier for North Collier Firefighter Paramedics to treat their youngest and most fragile patients. It’s the first department in Southwest Florida to use the new system.

“They’re very high stress calls,” said VanSickle.  “So, we need to be on our game.”

First responders in the Tampa, Miami and Orlando areas are also using the Handtevy System.