Life-Saving Care: Ayse's Journey with Wales Air Ambulance

Ayse Bidmead was involved in a serious car accident while listening to music on her way to work. The incident left her with severe injuries, including a head wound, chest and stomach abrasions, and an open fracture in her leg. Recognizing the critical condition of Ayse, paramedics called in the Wales Air Ambulance for pre-hospital critical care on August 2, 2023.
The air ambulance dispatched critical care practitioners Ben Seabourne and Steffan Simpson to the scene in Mold, where Ayse was found. Despite initial treatment, Ayse's heart rate remained high and her blood pressure low. The medics administered a blood transfusion on-site due to potential internal bleeding and provided strong pain relief to alleviate her suffering.
Following the dressing and splinting of Ayse's injured leg, she was swiftly airlifted to Liverpool's Aintree Hospital for further emergency treatment. Ayse, a kitchen assistant from Flint, expressed her gratitude for the swift response and care she received from the air ambulance team, acknowledging their crucial role in her rescue and transfer to the hospital.
Upon regaining consciousness in intensive care, Ayse discovered the extent of her injuries, which included spinal fractures, rib fractures, soft tissue damage, and internal injuries. Her recovery journey involved various medical procedures, including surgery, wound care, and rehabilitation. Throughout her ordeal, Ayse expressed immense gratitude towards the medical team and support staff who played a vital role in her treatment and recovery.
Wales Air Ambulance's commitment to patient care extended beyond the initial rescue, with the introduction of patient liaison nurses providing ongoing support to individuals like Ayse. The aftercare service offered by the charity ensured that Ayse received comprehensive information, support, and access to counseling services for both herself and her family during her recovery process.
The partnership between Wales Air Ambulance and the Emergency Medical Retrieval and Transfer Service (EMRTS) enables the delivery of consultant-led, hospital-standard care to patients in critical conditions. This collaboration ensures timely and efficient transfer of patients to the most suitable medical facilities, significantly improving their chances of survival and early recovery. Ayse's experience highlights the importance of swift and specialized medical intervention in life-threatening situations, emphasizing the critical role played by air ambulance services in saving lives and providing comprehensive care to patients in need.