Kingston dispatch staff step out of the office, and into action, to save a life.
Staff at Kingston Health Sciences Centre’s Central Ambulance Communications Centre are being recognized after helping save a life outside their office.
The team has received its first-ever Certificate of Commendation, an award that honours employees who go beyond their regular duties.
The incident happened outside the CACC office on John Counter Boulevard, where a person was found in medical distress in the parking lot. An ambulance was quickly dispatched while second supervisor on duty Maria Constandinou went outside to help.
Using her training and experience as a volunteer firefighter, Constandinou began chest compressions and requested a defibrillator. Hands-on care by ambulance dispatch staff is rare, as their role is usually limited to taking 911 calls and sending help.
Constandinou continued lifesaving measures until paramedics arrived a few minutes later. Officials say the calm and quick actions helped save the individual’s life.
CACC leaders say the incident highlights the growing recognition of dispatchers as “first, first responders,” often the first lifeline in an emergency.
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