Resolving to Work Together
As I write this editorial message, the most well-read article on our website details an incident on May 24 where a scuffle ensued between an Oklahoma state trooper and a paramedic after the officer pulled over the ambulance for failure to yield. The ambulance crew was transporting a patient to the hospital when it was pulled over. The story is also making headlines on mainstream news sites, where the photo of one of the troopers with his hands around the paramedic's neck has been prominently featured. The incident has generated numerous comments from our website visitors, with an overwhelming number outraged at the trooper's heavy-handed behavior at the scene. While the minutiae of the incident are being handled by the legal guys, there's no denying that the videocam of the event demonstrates how easily communication can break down when tempers are running high.
Conflict between police and prehospital personnel is not unusual. Whether dealing with accident scene management or field DUI blood draws, the missions of the cops can clash with those of the medics. In an online exclusive, paramedic Dominick Swinhart describes the types of scenarios in which conflict can escalate and offers a top 10 list of ways in which EMS providers can assist in conflict resolution.
Probably the most important thing when trying to resolve a conflict is holding your temper. Swinhart suggests that "reframing resistance" may be the way to a positive discussion. If someone calls you an idiot, asking them what can be done to work things out can help to defuse the situation. Ultimately keeping your emotions in check is key, because anger, however justified, will always stop the communication process. To read the entire article, visit EMSResponder.com/onlineexclusives.
What would you have done? How would you have handled this situation? Do you have any tips for resolving interagency conflicts on the scene? E-mail your thoughts to nancy.perry@cygnusb2b.com.
Please Note: The October issue of EMS Magazine is our Reader's Choice Issue! For the first time, we offer you the opportunity to customize EMS Magazine by selecting the content you would like us to feature in the issue. Complete our Reader's Choice Survey by July 27 to let us know which articles you would like to read.
