ARLINGTON — As world health leaders work to address the global spread of the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19), Armstrong Ambulance is responding by providing its caregivers with the knowledge and skills they need to both support patients in need and protect themselves.
On Monday, Feb. 3, Armstrong hosted an Infectious Diseases Seminar at its Center of Education in Woburn. The program, developed in response to the global spread of Coronavirus that began in Wuhan, China, was led by Armstrong EMT Lauren Malsick.
Armstrong staff, including EMTs and paramedics, as well as partner public safety personnel from the Medford Fire Department and Tufts University Police Department took part in the seminar.
While viruses like COVID-19 cause fear, Malsick stressed that the flu kills thousands every year and poses a more dangerous threat to the population, overall. She also reminded providers of the importance of vaccination, especially against diseases like the measles, which are far more infectious and dangerous than the coronavirus.
The training also emphasized the importance of disinfecting by washing hands and thoroughly cleaning EMS work spaces, including ambulance patient compartments and vehicle cabs.
In addition to her role with Armstrong, Malsick holds a bachelor’s degree in molecular biology and biochemistry and a master’s degree in biotechnology from Boston University, and has worked in a high containment facility focused on Ebola and other hemorrhagic fever viruses.
“Our providers encounter a broad array of patients, so it’s important that they have all the information they need to provide the best possible care while also keeping themselves safe,” CEO Rich Raymond said. “Lauren is an expert on this topic and she gave everyone who took part some valuable insight that they can draw upon if the need arises while treating their patients.”
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