Paramedics train in Sisters

Many Sisters-area residents noticed the bright blue Life Flight helicopter hovering over downtown Sisters last Wednesday morning before finally settling down in the parking lot of the Sisters-Camp Sherman fire station.

The helicopter and Life Flight paramedics were all part of the recertification training for EMTs and paramedics with the Sisters-Camp Sherman and Cloverdale Fire Districts. Fire district physician advisor Dr. Peter Vraniak also provided instruction during the three-hour training session.

Paramedics practiced low-frequency, high-risk procedures including creating an emergency tracheotomy and decompressing collapsed lungs by placing long needles through a simulated chest.

Fire Chief Roger Johnson said, "Most paramedics will work their entire career without having to perform these procedures, but it is important to be prepared and well-trained in case they do." Paramedics also practiced inserting IVs into bones using an interosseous needle and drill and practiced placing advanced airways using a video laryngescope.

Paramedics are required to complete at least 48 hours of continuing education every two years to maintain state licensure.

The Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District provides ambulance service to more than 2,000 square miles of area using a combination of career and volunteer paramedics and EMTs. The district has three ambulances and responded to 753 medical calls in 2014.