6 Tips On Patient Care During Major Sporting Events

Providing EMS at mass gathering events is something I’ve done for around 15 years now. Although every event (like every patient) is individualistic in their scope, needs and call volume there are some things that I’ve found to be relatively universal when working them. Here are a few tips for when you’re working a sporting event:

Wrestler Mark Henry wheeled out from ring at Survivor Series 2011

• Make sure you meet with the team doctors/trainers before the actual event to discuss the “What ifs?” and explain your capabilities as opposed to what may be their assumptions. Being connected via radio is ideal
• Have all your equipment on the stretcher ready to go. I often refer to this “loading up for bear”, with both immobilization equipment and resuscitation equipment getting strapped in
• Be sure you have a clear view of the field/ring so you know what is going on
• Make sure your path to the field/ring is clear of obstacles. Security at these venues may make changes to barricades during the event, so make sure they understand what path you are taking in the event of an on field/in ring injury
• There will be many eyes on you so its important to remain focused on your role. I use a mental method similar to what Kevin Costner‘s character uses in For The Love Of The Game, making a conscious decision to shut the ambient noise and distractions down and focus at the task at hand
• Remember that while there will be many eyes on you, there will also be just as many cameras so whatever you do (or don’t do) will be preserved for the sake of both prosperity and criticism later on

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