Release

UAlbany's Five Quad Volunteer Ambulance Service Equipped to Provide Asthma Medication Treatments

Contact: Catherine Herman (518) 437-4980

ALBANY, N.Y. (April 20, 2006) -- The University at Albany's Five Quad Volunteer Ambulance Service has been approved to carry nebulized albuterol sulfate, a medication usually reserved for paramedic or higher-level provider use for asthmatics. The new service will allow Five Quad personnel to better assist students and staff in the UAlbany community by dispensing nebulizer treatments to someone suffer an asthma attack.

The initiative came about through the teamwork of Dr. Peter Vellis, Medical Director at the University at Albany's Health Center, Howard Huth, EMS Advisor to Five Quad, and Five Quad's student volunteers who serve as NYS Certified Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs). It involved each of the EMTs attending training sessions that specifically addressed the pharmacology and effects of albuterol. The students then were directed to demonstrate proficiency in the use of the medication, within the regional and NYS protocols. Albuterol is a bronchodilator that is inhaled via a nebulized oxygenated mist which allows a patients' constricted airways to relax and open, allowing them to breathe.

"The 100-percent volunteer team of students that make up the Five Quad Ambulance Service are some of the most dedicated young adults attending the University at Albany," said Kermit L. Hall, President of UAlbany. "I commend Dr. Peter Vellis, Howard Huth and most importantly the student EMTs who have devoted their time and effort to providing these life-saving services, and congratulate them for providing this important tool."

"Five Quad had always done a wonderful job of responding to asthma calls in the past, but we were limited in terms of what treatment they could provide," said Huth. "This step allows us to respond faster with essential care for patients suffering from breathing difficulties."

Founded in 1973, Five Quad is a NYS certified Basic Life Support (BLS) ambulance service with a service district of students, staff, and friends of the UAlbany community for a 5-mile radius from the uptown campus. Five Quad operates 2 BLS ambulances 24 hours a day, seven days a week while the dorms are open and provide campus event coverage for the N.Y. Giants NFL training camp, sporting events, concerts, and the Special Olympics. For more information visit the Five Quad website >>