Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service Recently Launched Innovative Whole Blood Program for Critical Patient Care

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service (MCFRS) is proud to announce the implementation of a groundbreaking initiative aimed at enhancing emergency medical care for our community's most critically ill patients. Starting August 6, EMS Supervisors began administering Low Titer O+ Whole Blood to patients experiencing severe trauma or other life-threatening medical emergencies. On the very first day of the program initiation, paramedics responded to a hypotensive patient with a stab wound to the neck. Dr. Dany Westerband, MD, Medical Director of Trauma Services & Chief, Section of Trauma and Emergency Surgery at Suburban Hospital – Johns Hopkins Medicine said, “Montgomery County EMS perfectly initiated, executed and followed the protocol and the transfusion was completed upon arrival to the trauma bay.” 

Whole blood transfusions have been shown to significantly improve outcomes for patients suffering from severe hemorrhage. This initiative marks a pivotal advancement in the ability to provide advanced medical care in the prehospital setting, further solidifying Montgomery County as a leader in emergency medical services.  "The introduction of Low Titer O+ Whole Blood represents a major step forward in our mission to deliver the highest standard of care to the residents and visitors of Montgomery County," said Fire Chief Corey Smedley. "This program underscores our commitment to adopting cutting-edge medical advancements that directly benefit patients during their most vulnerable moments." 
Whole blood transfusions offer several advantages over traditional therapy, including improved clotting function and oxygen delivery, which are crucial for patients experiencing significant blood loss. The administration of Low Titer O+ Whole Blood by highly trained EMS personnel can stabilize patients more effectively before they reach the hospital, thereby increasing their chances of survival and recovery.

The program's launch follows extensive preparation, training, and collaboration with our healthcare partners to ensure seamless integration into our existing protocols. EMS Supervisors have undergone rigorous training to safely administer and monitor whole blood transfusions in accordance with established medical guidelines and best practices.

MCFRS sincerely appreciates the collaboration and support of all stakeholders who made this initiative possible, including Suburban Hospital, Inova Blood Bank, MIEMSS, and Howard County Fire and Rescue.

For more information about the Low Titer O+ Whole Blood program and other initiatives by MCFRS, please contact Assistant Chief Ben Kaufman  at benjamin.kaufman@montgomerycountymd.gov

Contact: Pete Piringer, Public Information Officer, 240-672-4871
 
Note to Editors: Photos and interviews are available upon request.