PNWU Student Doctors turn training into action during a real-world emergency following pediatrics conference in Tacoma.
On a sunny September Tuesday in Yakima, eleven members of PNWU’s Pediatrics Club left campus for Tacoma, where they were set to represent the University at “The Sick and Injured Child” Pediatric Emergency Medical Conference, hosted by the MultiCare Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital.
Covering a host of critical childhood health-related topics, the students couldn’t pass up the invaluable chance to learn from inspiring speakers, connect with healthcare professionals, and share the experience with fellow PNWU students.
“I left feeling even more motivated to pursue pediatrics and grateful for opportunities like this to grow and connect,” explained Student Doctor Rica Perona.
As she and her classmates, Student Doctors Golda Ferraz and Jesus Castro, left the inspiring conference, they headed for dinner nearby.
Pulling into a rain-slicked parking spot beside the restaurant, Rica saw something – a man, collapsed in a parking lot across the street. There was a woman leaning over him, giving him chest compressions.
“Look,” she said to Golda and Jesus, pointing out her window.
Together, they all stepped out of the car and ran over to help.
Rica called 911, informing responding EMTs as she surveyed the area around her, transmitting names from street signs and parking lot placard details. When she looked back down, her classmate Golda had taken over chest compressions.
Assessing for a pulse and breath sounds, Student Dr. Ferraz continued, letting her weight drive her downward again and again, rising only to return in the same rhythmic and lifesaving beat. Then he had a seizure.
Student Dr. Perona spoke with the woman who was with the man, providing information through her for the EMTs. She learned the man had overdosed. He had received one dose of Narcan.
Listening carefully, Student Dr. Jesus Castro turned and addressed the crowd that had gathered.
Quickly, someone offered up their Narcan.
Jesus tracked the timing of the second administration, knowing he’d report every detail to EMTs when they arrived. Golda continued chest compressions until a pulse came back. Then, breath sounds.
“It truly felt like we were in the right place at the right time,” reflected Student Dr. Perona. “I couldn’t be prouder of Golda and Jesus for their quick, decisive actions that quite literally saved a life. They are true heroes, and I feel grateful to have witnessed and been part of their response.”
“Without Rica’s vigilance, I would not have noticed the incident at all,” said Student Dr. Ferraz. “Her quick decision to call 911 may very well have saved the man’s life, because in those moments, truly every second counts.”
“Jesus’ ability to remain calm and organized was equally critical,” she continued. “He allowed us to communicate efficiently and ensure the man received the best possible care.”
For Student Drs. Ferraz, Perona and Castro, it didn’t matter who the man was or how he ended up in that situation. What mattered was doing everything possible to bring him back.
“I truly believe we were in the right place at the right time,” said Student Dr. Ferraz, mirroring the words of her classmate, though neither heard the other say them. “Sometimes, it’s the smallest choices that guide us to the moments that matter most.”
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Conference attendees included: Rica Perona, Josh Herrero, Lily Thompson, Golda Ferraz, Jesus Castro, Sein Pyo, Nathaniel Giaque, Francisco Robles, Brandon Reid, Laura Litauszki, and Taylor Leistiko.