JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
There's one military unit at the 2010 Joint Service Open House here that guests should avoid at all costs. The 779th Medical Group, working in concert with Navy, Army and Air Force medical assets, has set up a central first aid station that no one needs to visit, if they plan ahead and make JSOH 2010 a safe and fun event.
Noise, heat and poor planning are the biggest threats to a successful Open House, according to medical technicians manning the First Aid Station in Hangar 4 on Andrews. "Bring sunscreen, comfortable shoes, some spare cash for water and be safe," said Chief Master Sgt. Richard Brown, 779th Medical Group fuctional manager. "Everyone should be prepared to walk several miles."
By 3 p.m. on day one of the Open House, the first aid station on the Andrews flightline, was visited by four patients who exhibited the most common Open House injuries. One elderly patient who suffered sudden chest pains was transported to a local hospital. Another dehydrated herself and could have avoided the ordeal by taking advantage of the large supply of water and sports drinks available at every booth throughout the tarmac.
Medics from three military branches are out in force among the crowd, scouring spectators for signs of dehydration and heat exhaustion. "We want to be easily accessible to all guests" said Capt. John Ricciardi, an emergency room nurse and veteran of three Andrew's Open Houses.
"Victims of sunburn, dehydration and skinned knees can rest easy, knowing they are being cared for by the best medical technicians from three services," said Tech. Sgt. Ali Pruitt, lead medical technician for the First Aid Station.
Should the worst happen, medical personnel have coordinated with surrounding hospitals. Malcolm Grow Medical Center on Andrews, and Southern Maryland Hospital Center in Prince George's County, are standing by to triage casualties. Staff at both locations have been plussed-up for the Open House, ready to treat patients.