Under fire E.M.S. workers get support from petitioners
POWELL COUNTY, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – First responders in Powell County came under scrutiny after a life-saving decision earlier this year.
In May, a Kentucky Reptile Zoo worker was bitten by a highly venomous Jameson’s mamba. Paramedics, including Powell County Judge Executive Eddie Barnes, administered anti-venom on the spot while consulting with hospital staff, since their EMS director could not be reached.
The worker survived, calling the team “heroes.” However, the Kentucky Board of EMS is now reviewing their actions because only wilderness paramedics are officially allowed to administer anti-venom. A Change.org petition supporting the team has already gathered thousands of signatures.
A hearing is scheduled for September 30 to determine whether the paramedics’ licenses will be affected.
