The Royal Flying Doctor Service (Queensland Section) (RFDS) Mount Isa aeromedical team have the ability to deliver enhanced emergency care thanks to a generous donation from Glencore Mount Isa Mines.
The team has received cutting-edge medical devices, including a MEQU Fluid Warmer and i-STAT blood analyser, which will boost their emergency response capabilities.
The MEQU Fluid Warmer is a portable device used in emergency settings to warm blood products and fluids to a safe, optimal temperature before administering them to patients. These warming capabilities are crucial in preventing hypothermia, improving patient comfort, and enhancing the effectiveness of intravenous therapies.
The i-STAT blood analyser is a handheld device that measures patients’ blood values during emergencies. It acts as a mini pathology lab, providing results in just five minutes. This allows the team to make timely, well-informed decisions on a patient’s medical care.
RFDS Nurse Manager - Aeromedical Jamie-Lee McCall highlighted the importance of these new additions for the Mount Isa team.
“Both the MEQU Fluid Warmer and i-STAT machine will assist the RFDS in providing emergency care by preventing hypothermia and providing rapid actionable diagnostics from immediate blood results,” Jamie-Lee said.
“These devices are invaluable in settings where time is critical, and resources are limited.
“The portability means we can take them on every flight and use them in the pre-hospital setting when required.”
With the largest operational area of any RFDS base in Queensland, the Mount Isa team deliver services to an extensive region. With the addition of this new equipment, the team will be able to continue delivering the finest care to communities across Western Queensland.
Jonathan Eden, Manager of Health, Safety, Environment and Community for Glencore Mount Isa Mines said the operation was pleased to help the RFDS with the purchase of critical life-saving equipment for the Mount Isa crew to use during emergency retrievals.
“The RFDS plays a vital role in providing emergency medical services to those living in regional and remote areas of Queensland,” said Jonathan.
“We hope this contribution makes a meaningful difference for those living in the north-west, who find themselves in need of urgent care, thousands of kilometres from major hospitals.”
Glencore has been a long-standing supporter of the RFDS, and we look forward to strengthening and growing this vital community partnership.
