Doctor Sean Keenan presents whole blood resuscitation initiative for Teller County EMS

During the recent City Council meeting in Woodland Park, Teller County, a significant presentation highlighted the introduction of whole blood resuscitation by local Emergency Medical Services (EMS). Dr. Sean Keenan, the Teller County EMS medical director from UCHealth, emphasized the life-saving potential of this initiative, which is still relatively rare in ambulance services across the United States.

Dr. Keenan shared insights from his extensive experience, including his time as a physician in the army, where whole blood transfusions were first utilized to treat severely wounded soldiers. He explained that administering whole blood quickly after injury can dramatically improve survival rates. This practice has recently transitioned to civilian EMS, with Colorado Springs being a notable example, where nearly 100 units of whole blood have been administered in the past year, resulting in a 75% survival rate for patients.

In Teller County, the longer transport times to hospitals pose unique challenges. Dr. Keenan noted that while the overall number of patients needing whole blood may be lower, those experiencing critical bleeding—such as trauma victims or patients with severe medical conditions—would greatly benefit from immediate access to whole blood. He estimated that approximately two patients per month in Teller County could be saved through this initiative.

The introduction of whole blood resuscitation represents a significant advancement in emergency medical care for the region, potentially enhancing outcomes for patients facing life-threatening situations. As the community continues to adapt to this innovative approach, the focus will be on training EMS personnel and ensuring the availability of whole blood in emergency situations.