Quick Action, Strong Partnerships Save Redwood Patient's Life

Four CentraCare - Redwood EMS team members and two Redwood Falls police officers were recognized for their role in saving the life of a patient who experienced cardiac arrest last March.

Marc McDougall of Redwood Falls began experiencing symptoms of cardiac arrest at home on March 20, prompting his spouse to call 911.

Sergeant Brady Stough and Officer Lucas Hodges of the Redwood Falls Police Department were the first to arrive on scene, finding McDougall unresponsive and not breathing. The officers began chest compressions and applied a defibrillator, which delivered two shocks.

Redwood EMS Manager Lewis Louwagie credited their quick response and actions as key factors in McDougall's survival.

"It was the actions of the two police officers that really made a difference in this case," he said. "The team's early notification to the hospital and the helicopter was also key to the positive outcome."

When CentraCare EMS team members arrived, they worked alongside the officers, continuing care and eventually restoring McDougall's pulse. He was then transported to the CentraCare – Redwood emergency department and later airlifted to CentraCare - St. Cloud Hospital, where he made a full recovery.

"We've been working locally with the police department on cardiac arrest situations, AEDs and more for years," said Louwagie. "The expertise of everyone involved was evident, from the pre-hospital response and emergency care to air transport and the exceptional care provided at St. Cloud Hospital."

The recognition reflects the coordinated response among local police, EMS, hospital staff and air transport teams, all of which contributed to the patient's recovery.

Those recognized include paramedic Lynne Elston, EMT Sydney Bladon, paramedic Paige Ramler and EMT Jarvis Thompson, who received Life Saver Hero pins. Officer Hodges and Sergeant Stough of the Redwood Falls Police Department received Life Saver Hero pins and the Chief's Commendation Award.