Off-duty doctor and nurse save head-on crash victim
After a long shift at the Emergency Department where they both worked, Niall and Emily Tuohy were on their way to Bremer Bay for a well-deserved getaway when they came across the scene of a devastating head-on collision.
It was a rainy Friday evening in March 2023, and the crash had occurred on Albany Highway in Arthur River, a small town between Williams and Kojonup. One of the drivers, Kelly, had been seriously injured.
Despite it being dark and rainy, Niall and Emily immediately recognised how serious the crash was and leapt into action.
“We were one of the first on the scene,” recalls Emily. “Immediately my training kicked in and I knew I had to make quick decisions. Everything else left my mind – I didn’t hesitate and knew that Kelly was in desperate need of help if she was going to survive.”
Emily, an Emergency Nurse, took charge of a 000 call and delivered vital updates on Kelly’s condition while Niall, an Emergency Department doctor, assessed her and found severe head injuries and critically low blood pressure.
With extraordinary composure and skill, they kept Kelly breathing, and once an ambulance arrived 30 minutes later, they administered essential medications and stabilised her until the rescue helicopter was on the scene.
Their efforts and skill on the scene were nothing short of lifesaving, ensuring Kelly received the urgent care she desperately needed and ultimately saved her life. Niall and Emily each received a Gold Medallion Bravery Award for their actions that day, but remain humble about the award.
“As a medical professional, I feel a huge duty of care and responsibility to do what I can,” said Niall. “I could never have not given my all to ensure the people involved were safe, or at least not in critical danger.
“I feel immensely grateful that not only was it us who arrived at the scene when we did, but that we really were able to make a big difference and make her survival possible. We are so happy for Kelly and her family.”
Niall admitted that dealing with such a chaotic and devastating scene without the resources and equipment they’re accustomed to was a confronting experience.
“This accident was one of many that local and country volunteer officers show up to in emergency calls daily. It was very eye-opening for me to see how daunting and intense a scene like this can be.”
Niall sums it up well when he says that all of us, even without a medical background, have the ability to make a difference in a situation where someone needs help.
“Emergencies can happen when we least expect it…it is so vital that we maintain an ability to reach out and help others in a time of need. Regardless of your background you may be able to help just a little – be it dialling 000, running to call for help or following instruction from someone who knows more. ”
“A little help at the right moment can make a huge difference, especially in emergencies; you never know when your help might be needed.”
We absolutely agree, and we believe that basic first aid training is something everyone should have to improve our ability to help when it’s really needed. Consider enrolling in a course if you haven’t already, by following the link below!
