exercise

Airmen 1st Class Hannah Naylor (left) and Lauren Blowers (right), 51st Medical Group members, provide oxygen and check the vital signs of a patient who had been exposed to a simulated chemical attack from opposing forces, Jan. 18, 2013 during Beverly Midnight 13-01.Throughout the week, Mustangs demonstrate the ability to operate during a heightened state of readiness. (U.S. Air Force photos/Senior Airman Kristina Overton)

exercise

Staff Sgt. Casey Grizzard, 51st Medical Group member, prepares to do a chest x-ray for a patient who had been exposed to a simulated chemical nerve agent during Beverly Midnight 13-01, Jan. 18, 2013. The exercise tests Osan Airmen’s abilities during a heightened state of readiness while providing combat ready forces for close air support, air strike control, counter air, interdiction, theater airlift, and communications in the defense of the Republic of Korea.(U.S. Air Force photos/Senior Airman Kristina Overton)

51st MDG treat patients during operational readiness exercise

Published Jan. 21, 2013
By Senior Airman Kristina Overton
51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs

Osan Air Base, REPUBLIC OF KOREA -- Members of the 51st Medical Group were instrumental in processing and treating patients who were injured after simulated attacks by opposing forces during operational readiness exercise Beverly Midnight 13-01. Though initial treatment is given out in the field, these professionals follow-up with patients to ensure their recovery or make sure they receive additional care.

The 51st MDG immediate team responded to an individual who was exposed to a simulated chemical nerve agent Jan. 18.

"When the patient arrived, she had already received three Antidote Treatment Nerve Agent Auto injections in the field," said Capt. Renatta Martine, 51st MDG immediate team nurse. "Here, the patient received an IV, oxygen, a chest x-ray because of her chemical exposure, her eyes were flushed, and we looked her over for other possible injuries."

The immediate team normally treats the most severe patients passing through the facility who need urgent care. Their mission is to decrease morbidity, and prevent the loss of life, limb or sight.

"People are our most valuable asset for the mission," said Capt. Melissa May, 51st MDG immediate team chief. "If they're not properly attended to, there is a possibility they could end up with a long term disability or lose their life."