A gripping new BBC Scotland documentary, “Paramedics on Scene,” offers viewers an intimate look into the demanding work of local ambulance crews. The latest episode, filmed in Perth, follows paramedic Keara Bacon and technician Ashleigh Smith as they respond to a life-threatening drug overdose in a Fair City car park.
The episode showcases the complex and often heartbreaking reality faced by paramedics dealing with the prevalent issue of drug overdoses, particularly concerning street Valium. When Keara and Ashleigh arrive at the scene, they find an unconscious man, suspected of overdosing on this dangerous substance. The documentary captures the urgency of the situation as the paramedics quickly assess the man’s condition and administer medication to counteract the effects of the overdose. Fighting Against the Tide: Perth and Dundee’s Overdose Crisis
The documentary doesn’t shy away from the difficult truth about the prevalence of drug overdoses in Perth and Dundee. Keara highlights the complexities of these calls, explaining how multiple factors contribute to each individual case. She emphasizes that it’s not just about treating the immediate medical emergency, but understanding the underlying circumstances that lead to these incidents.
Keara acknowledges the staggering drug death rates in Scotland, referencing local and national news reports and highlighting initiatives like the Naloxone distribution training program being implemented within the Scottish Ambulance Service. Naloxone is a fast-acting medication that can temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, giving individuals a chance to receive further medical care. The program underscores the critical role paramedics play in tackling this public health crisis. Inside the Ambulance: A Perthshire Perspective
The documentary provides a unique perspective on the day-to-day pressures and triumphs of our local paramedics. While the episode focuses on the harrowing moments of the overdose response, it also captures lighter moments, revealing the human side of these dedicated professionals. The episode also shows Keara and Ashleigh responding to a separate incident involving two men in the River Tay, emphasizing the range of challenges they face in their line of duty.
The uncertainty surrounding the overdose victim’s fate after he’s transported to A&E underscores the ongoing fight against Scotland’s drug problem. The episode emphasizes that every second counts in these emergencies and showcases the quick thinking and decisive action required by paramedics in the field. It also demonstrates the teamwork and communication vital to ensuring patient safety.
Keara and Ashleigh reflected on their experience of being part of the documentary, saying, ‘Being filmed was incredibly exciting and memorable. It’s not often that people get to see what we do beyond the flashing lights and sirens… we’re just ordinary people doing our best to help others – often showing up in someone’s darkest hour, trying to bring calm, care, and sometimes a bit of humour.’ Their words highlight the vital, yet often unseen, service paramedics provide to the Perth and Kinross community.
The episode featuring Keara and Ashleigh offers a window into the world of emergency medical response and sheds light on the urgent need for continued efforts to address the underlying issues contributing to drug overdoses in our community and across Scotland. The courage and dedication of these front-line workers serve as an inspiration and a reminder of the importance of compassion and support for those struggling with addiction.
The episode showcases the complex and often heartbreaking reality faced by paramedics dealing with the prevalent issue of drug overdoses, particularly concerning street Valium. When Keara and Ashleigh arrive at the scene, they find an unconscious man, suspected of overdosing on this dangerous substance. The documentary captures the urgency of the situation as the paramedics quickly assess the man’s condition and administer medication to counteract the effects of the overdose. Fighting Against the Tide: Perth and Dundee’s Overdose Crisis
The documentary doesn’t shy away from the difficult truth about the prevalence of drug overdoses in Perth and Dundee. Keara highlights the complexities of these calls, explaining how multiple factors contribute to each individual case. She emphasizes that it’s not just about treating the immediate medical emergency, but understanding the underlying circumstances that lead to these incidents.
Keara acknowledges the staggering drug death rates in Scotland, referencing local and national news reports and highlighting initiatives like the Naloxone distribution training program being implemented within the Scottish Ambulance Service. Naloxone is a fast-acting medication that can temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, giving individuals a chance to receive further medical care. The program underscores the critical role paramedics play in tackling this public health crisis. Inside the Ambulance: A Perthshire Perspective
The documentary provides a unique perspective on the day-to-day pressures and triumphs of our local paramedics. While the episode focuses on the harrowing moments of the overdose response, it also captures lighter moments, revealing the human side of these dedicated professionals. The episode also shows Keara and Ashleigh responding to a separate incident involving two men in the River Tay, emphasizing the range of challenges they face in their line of duty.
The uncertainty surrounding the overdose victim’s fate after he’s transported to A&E underscores the ongoing fight against Scotland’s drug problem. The episode emphasizes that every second counts in these emergencies and showcases the quick thinking and decisive action required by paramedics in the field. It also demonstrates the teamwork and communication vital to ensuring patient safety.
Keara and Ashleigh reflected on their experience of being part of the documentary, saying, ‘Being filmed was incredibly exciting and memorable. It’s not often that people get to see what we do beyond the flashing lights and sirens… we’re just ordinary people doing our best to help others – often showing up in someone’s darkest hour, trying to bring calm, care, and sometimes a bit of humour.’ Their words highlight the vital, yet often unseen, service paramedics provide to the Perth and Kinross community.
The episode featuring Keara and Ashleigh offers a window into the world of emergency medical response and sheds light on the urgent need for continued efforts to address the underlying issues contributing to drug overdoses in our community and across Scotland. The courage and dedication of these front-line workers serve as an inspiration and a reminder of the importance of compassion and support for those struggling with addiction.