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Nanaimo-based paramedic with Team Canada B.C. earns silver in international competition

Competition in Czech Republic featured 23 teams of paramedics, doctors and police officers
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Sarah Shaw, critical care paramedic Prince George, second from left; Alex Mattes, paramedic supervisor from the central Island; Ryan Casselman, paramedic practice educator from the central Island; and Tyrone Trotter, paramedic supervisor from the south Island represented Canada and brought home a silver medal from an international first responders competition in the Czech Republic last month. (Photo submitted)

A team of B.C. paramedics, with one member from Nanaimo, brought home a silver medal from an international first responders competition in the Czech Republic.

Team Canada B.C. competed against 23 teams from 15 countries in the 26th annual Rally Rejviz, May 24-27, when teams of doctors, paramedics and police put their skills to the test during a 24-hour shift. During each shift, the teams work 10 to 12 scenarios and are judged on their patient care, knowledge, medical skills and overall scene management.

Some of the scenarios this year simulated toxic substance exposure, radioactive material exposure and a hostage situation.

Team Canada B.C. was made up of Sarah Shaw, critical care paramedic from Prince George; Alex Mattes, a Nanaimo paramedic supervisor; Ryan Casselman, paramedic practice educator from the central Island; and Tyrone Trotter, paramedic supervisor for the south Island.

Mattes said his team completed 10 scenarios in total, ranging from simple medical calls to complex multiple-casualty events and all completed under a lot of pressure.

“Once you get on the podium … you’re like, ‘Oh, what a relief,’” Mattes said. “Just everything’s such a relief. Lots of prep, lots of everything to get to it and it’s just such a relief to know that you went through all that, did all that work and you did well.”

To view all the results and learn more about Rally Rejviz visit https://rallye-rejviz.com/.

READ ALSO: Nanaimo paramedics part of Team Canada


chris.bush@nanaimobulletin.com

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