PHOTO: A cardiac monitor and electrocardiogram (EKG) defibrillator are displayed at Victoria Fire Department Station Two, 2708 Miori Lane. This equipment is used by firefighter/EMTs to provide first aid to patients with heart attack symptoms.
The City of Victoria’s Fire Department has earned the American Heart Association’s 2023 Mission: Lifeline EMS Gold recognition for its treatment of patients suffering from an ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), a serious type of heart attack.
To earn the recognition, the fire department must show at least 75% compliance with the following standards: providing an electrocardiogram (EKG) to patients at least 35 years old with heart attack symptoms; notifying hospitals of a STEMI patient within 10 minutes; and promptly transporting the patient for care within specific time thresholds depending on the situation.
The fire department also earned the American Heart Association’s Heart Attack Honor Roll recognition, which honors EMS providers that transport patients directly to facilities that can provide appropriate treatment for STEMI patients. Both Citizens Medical Center and DeTar Hospital Navarro are qualified to provide such care.
The Victoria Fire Department has consistently received the American Heart Association’s highest possible STEMI care recognition since it began applying in 2014.
“I am extremely proud of the men and women of the Victoria Fire Department for once again receiving this honor,” Fire Department Chief Tracy Fox said. “Meeting this high standard of care requires rigorous training as well as constant coordination and communication with our local hospitals and medical leaders, without whom this recognition would not be possible.”
To learn more about the Victoria Fire Department, visit www.victoriatx.gov/fire.