MedRoc uses a limited number of First Aiders and never on a frontline ambulance. The reason we use a limited number is because we, as a Company, have found that they do not offer value for money for the client. We feel that it is unfair to both the First Aider and indeed the patient for either to be placed in a situation with a patient presenting with a serious injury / illness with only 3-5 days training.
However, First Aiders do indeed have a place in the pre-hospital environment in particular at low risk events. First Aiders are suitable to be used at larger / high risk events but only under the supervision of a registered / certified medic.
All our First Aiders are over the age of 18 as we do not feel that it is appropriate for a minor to be treating and / or advising patients that may be presenting in an aggravated or aroused state, or indeed exposing the minor to alcohol and drug environments where they may feel that this would be normal behaviour. MedRoc’s thought behind this is that that we would not wish for our children to be groped, sworn at, exposed to illegal substances, alcohol, physiatric or perhaps traumatised by a serious patient; and we have also found that some adults are not comfortable being treated by a minor with no life experience.
