2005-06-08 Fire Commission Minutes

Home

Chief Oliveira answered that they were. He agreed that there is a need to improve this policy. Commissioner Fergerstrom requested a follow up report on what policies were being contemplated and/or are being implemented to control this type of activity. He is concerned with the casualness of the individuals who observed these vials and disregarded them. Chief Oliveira said he would provide the commission a report. Commissioner Maedo moved to sustain HCFC complaint 05-01. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Okabe and unanimously carried. Commissioner Fergerstrom asked the Kailua Fire Station members if they had any input on this situation. Fire Rescue Specialist Gregory Cameron stated that many patients have multiple medication and the emergency room requests that the paramedics provide this to them. Fire Equipment Operator Richard Fong mentioned that the patients medication is treated like other personal items. Commissioner Fergerstrom asked if there was documentation on how this is turned over and how the property was accounted for. Fire Equipment Operator Fong stated that there is a logbook, but he is unsure whether the Captain records any particular item. These items are left in a package with the patients name. There is a need for public education. If people have a list of their medication it would eliminate the need of transporting them to the hospital. Commissioner Kudlo suggested a personal inventory list for patients belongings such as handbags, wallets, medication, and keys. She acknowledged that this would be difficult at an emergency scene. Fire Rescue Specialist Cameron stated that the personnel are aware of the liabilities involved and would prefer not to deal with personal items. Paramedics are open to being falsely accused. On the other hand, it is necessary to accommodate the patients needs. Commissioner Fergerstrom stated that there is a need for documentation due to the changes in society. 5