Success of UAE National Paramedic Program Showcased at EMS Conference

The 4th Emergency Medical Services Conference concluded today following a series of medical lectures and workshops by leading national and international speakers with the common aim of improving EMS (emergency medical services) across the region.
The highlight of the conference included a hands-on workshop by the Higher Colleges of Technology, Dubai Men’s College and Dubai Women’s College, Advanced Life Support Paramedic Program, which provided a practical update on CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) and AED (automated external defibrillator) usage, as recommended by the 2005 American Heart Association guidelines. The workshop was facilitated by 14 UAE national, 3rd year paramedic students from the colleges, who will graduate as the nation’s first American qualified paramedics in June 2007.
“This conference provided the paramedic students an opportunity to demonstrate the new CPR guidelines to other health care professionals,” commented Mashal Julfar, 3rd year paramedic student.  “Most people involved in Emergency Medical Services in the region were unaware that UAE nationals are studying advanced prehospital care according to international standards.”  “We are proud to assist our country in developing an advanced EMS service.”
Ronald Blough, Instructor, Higher Colleges of Technology Advanced Life Support Paramedic Program, Dubai, adds, “The workshop, presented in simulated cardiac arrest scenarios, allowed the participants to learn and practice the latest guidelines for cardiac arrest management. Prompt quality CPR and early use of the AED has demonstrated increased survival rates among victims of cardiac arrest. Health care professionals who participated in this workshop are better equipped to manage episodes of sudden cardiac death.”
Following the conclusion of the 4th Emergency Medical Services Conference, the Accident & Emergency Conference continues today and the 2nd Middle East Trauma Conference finishes tomorrow.
From September 17th-19th at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, the Patient Safety Congress, in association with the GCC Centre for Infection Control will address the regions multiple infection and safety concerns in conjunction with many of the world's leading associations and organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), Society of Hospital of Epidemiologists of America (SHEA), Association of Professionals in Infection Control (APIC), and the International Federation of Infection Control (IFIC).