Emergency at the beach in Marotta: couple may drown, doctors are missing
The nurses and the driver had to rely on a doctor who was accidentally on the beach
An episode that has exposed the fragility of the territorial emergency system has upset the quiet Sunday of many Pesaro and tourists. A couple of men in their 50s, venturing past buoys into an unguarded area of the sea, went at risk of drowning. Fortunately, the prompt intervention of the lifeguards and a visiting doctor prevented the worst.
The absence of a doctor: a structural problem
One element that made the situation even more critical was the absence of the doctor on board the ambulance of 118 who had been treated on the spot. Despite the severity of the emergency, the nurses and the driver had to rely on the professionalism of a doctor who was accidentally on the beach. This shortage of medical personnel on board ambulances is not an isolated case, but seems to be a structural problem of the territorial emergency system, especially in coastal areas during the summer period when the call for help increases exponentially.
The consequences of a system under pressure
The absence of a doctor on board an ambulance has a number of negative consequences:
- Slow down of the rescue: The nurse, although highly qualified, does not have the skills to perform certain medical maneuvers, such as intubation or administration of specific drugs
- Increased risk to the patient: In emergency situations, every minute counts. Absence of doctor may result in delay in the delivery of necessary care, with serious consequences for patient’s health
- Increased workload for nursing staff: Nurses are faced with complex situations without the support of a doctor, increasing the risk of errors and stress.
The role of the regional council
Regional Councillor Marta Ruggeri stressed the importance of activating the automedic, or ambulances equipped with a doctor, to ensure a faster and more effective intervention in case of emergency. This solution, according to the councillor, is essential to improve the quality of health service and to avoid situations like that occurred in Marotta.
A national problem
The problem of shortage of medical personnel in ambulances is not only a problem in the province of Pesaro Urbino, but it is a phenomenon that affects the whole country. Marotta’s episode is a wake-up call that cannot be ignored. Urgent action is needed to ensure an efficient emergency service that meets the needs of citizens.