NHS Western Isles has donated a number of portable hand-held suction devices to Hebrides
Mountain Rescue Team (HebMRT), which in addition to its other uses, can help those
experiencing a cardiac arrest. Being able to clear and maintain an injured person's
airway is critical.
The Fazzini F-31 is a portable suction unit used for minor surgery, emergency and
professional use, and has already been implemented in training being offered to HebMRT
volunteers. In addition, the unit was made operationally available at the recent
Stornoway Half Marathon event.
Jacintha Kool, NHS Western Isles Locum Resident Doctor and HebMRT Medical Officer,
said: “We were delighted to receive the generous donation of four hand-held airway-suction
devices and, whilst they will not be carried on the hill, they will be useful for
event cover, and in the worst-case scenario: a cardiac arrest.
“Clearing the airway is part of our cardiac arrest protocol, and the device can therefore
potentially be lifesaving. Obviously, we hope to never have to use these devices,
however, by frequent scenario training our HebMRT volunteers will be at least prepared
for it."
HebMRT, which is made up of 16 volunteers who give up their time to train and help
those in need in urban, hill and moorland environments, are trained in basic mountain
skills with the addition of search techniques and management skills, communications,
advanced first aid, advanced rigging and off-road and ATV driving. Whilst based
in Stornoway, HebMRT operates throughout the whole of the Outer Hebrides and also
provides immediate access to the hills of Harris and Lewis.
Gordon Jamieson, NHS Western Isles Chief Executive, said: "I am always pleased to
be able to assist our partner organisations, who step up at a moment's notice to
render expert assistance for those incidents that can occur anywhere in our communities,
and the individuals affected and at risk."
Life saving equipment donation for rescue team
10 June 2025
HebMRT members with Gordon Jamieson of NHS Western Isles