“He was eating his bodily fluids”: SCDF paramedics recall their best moments on the job

Behind the Sirens: Life as a Paramedic in Singapore

When you think of paramedics, what comes to mind? Fast-paced rescues? Heart-stopping emergencies? For the brave men and women of the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), every day is a mix of life-saving missions and emotional encounters. Recently, paramedics Nurhidayah Yan and Benjamin Yeo shared their experiences in a candid video interview with You Got Watch Sg. Let’s dive into their world.

Real-Life Challenges

Imagine arriving at a scene where someone is unconscious and in dire need of help. Hidayah recounted a particularly harrowing case where she found a man lying on the ground, covered in his own bodily fluids after being unable to move for eleven days. He had suffered severe injuries and, shockingly, survived by consuming his own fluids.

But that wasn’t the end of it. Upon flipping him over, Hidayah discovered a serious necrotic wound on his cheek, a condition caused by the lack of blood flow. “Unfortunately, the most memorable cases tend to be the more horrific ones,” she shared, highlighting the emotional toll such incidents take on paramedics.

Heartfelt Moments

In another gripping story, Benjamin described a moment when they were trying to revive a man in cardiac arrest. Initially unresponsive, the man suddenly began to cry for help, showing a flicker of life amidst the chaos. “At that point, he became calm and stopped resisting our efforts,” Benjamin recalled. It’s these moments of connection that remind paramedics why they do what they do.

However, the job isn’t without its challenges. Paramedics often face distressed family members who may shout or plead for assistance during emergencies. Hidayah shared a personal experience where she was slapped by a drunken patient, illustrating the unpredictable nature of their work.

Dealing with Non-Emergency Situations

Not every call is a life-and-death situation. Hidayah pointed out that many people mistakenly call for non-emergency issues, such as toothaches or headaches. In these cases, she advises, “I would recommend visiting a clinic instead.”

Calling an ambulance for emergencies is free, but there’s a charge of $274 for non-emergency calls. “If the situation worsens, you can always call 995 again,” she added, reminding us of the importance of understanding when to seek help.

Building Trust in the Community

Despite their expertise, paramedics sometimes face skepticism from the public. Hidayah mentioned that some individuals prefer to go straight to a hospital rather than trust the paramedics on the scene. “We’re here to help, but sometimes people just don’t see it that way,” she noted.

In the hustle and bustle of Singapore, it’s crucial to remember the vital role paramedics play in our community. They’re not just first responders; they’re compassionate individuals who face the toughest situations daily.

For more insights into the life of paramedics in Singapore, check out the full interview on You Got Watch Sg.

In conclusion, the world of paramedics is filled with both challenges and triumphs. Their stories remind us of the importance of empathy and understanding in times of crisis. Next time you hear the sirens, remember the dedicated individuals behind them, working tirelessly to keep our community safe.