Surviving Against the Odds: Ayse Bidmead's Journey with Wales Air Ambulance
Ayse Bidmead was involved in a serious car accident while listening to music on her way to work. The incident left her with severe injuries, including a head wound, chest and stomach abrasions, and an open fracture in her leg. Recognizing the critical condition of Ayse, paramedics called in the Wales Air Ambulance for pre-hospital critical care on August 2, 2023.
The air ambulance dispatched critical care practitioners Ben Seabourne and Steffan Simpson to the scene in Mold, where they found Ayse in significant pain with high heart rate and low blood pressure. Despite initial treatment, she required further medical attention. The medics administered a blood transfusion on-site due to potential internal bleeding and provided strong pain relief to Ayse.
Following the initial treatment, Ayse's leg was stabilized with a splint, and she was airlifted to Liverpool's Aintree Hospital within 15 minutes. The trauma unit at the hospital took over her care, addressing her multiple injuries, including spinal fractures, rib fractures, and internal trauma. Ayse expressed gratitude for the swift response and care she received from the air ambulance team and hospital staff.
During her recovery, Ayse faced various challenges, including blood clots in her lungs and a prolonged hospital stay of 13 weeks. She underwent multiple surgeries and treatments, including a HALO brace for her neck fracture and a skin graft on her thigh. Despite the difficulties, Ayse remained thankful for the lifesaving efforts and support she received throughout her journey to recovery.
Wales Air Ambulance's commitment to patient care extends beyond the initial rescue, with the introduction of patient liaison nurses providing ongoing support. Ayse benefited from this aftercare service, receiving clear explanations of her treatment, access to counseling services, and consistent communication throughout her recovery process. The support from the air ambulance team and patient liaison nurse, Hayley Whitehead-Wright, played a crucial role in Ayse's healing journey.
The partnership between Wales Air Ambulance and the Emergency Medical Retrieval and Transfer Service (EMRTS) ensures that patients like Ayse receive prompt and specialized care, potentially saving crucial time in critical situations. The consultant-led approach and collaboration between the Third Sector and Public Sector contribute to improved outcomes for patients requiring emergency medical assistance. Ayse's experience highlights the vital role of air ambulance services in delivering lifesaving care and support to individuals in need.