> Sorry if this is a daft question, but why do you need tetanus vials on a
> rapid response vehicle in the first place??
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Accident and Emergency Academic List
> [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Michael Bjarkoy
> Sent: 22 August 2003 19:23
> To: [log in to unmask]
> Subject: keeping tetanus cold on car units
>
> Hi all
> I am exploring a way to keep Tetanus vials between 2 and 8 degrees
> celcius
> in a Rapid Response Paramedic Unit (car).
> The unit must be VERY small and take into account fluctuations in
> outside
> ambient temperature and overstretched battery systems that occasionally
> fail.
>
> any ideas
>
> Mike Bjarkoy
>
>
I suspect he is planning to work as a community paramedic - treat and leave. It is now of course Diftavax, not just
tet tox. The little fridges are great - provided you are happy with the power consumption. They use Peltier effect
diodes usually, and these take several amps continuously. They are cheap and small, and both of these militate
against good thermal stability. I agree (having looked into this myself a few years ago) that the only option is a
separate battery (most response cars have dual batteries in any case) and a split charge relay.
I suggest that you consider not carrying any. There is a 48-72 hour window for treatment for tetanus toxoid, and
there is very little diphtheria about at present. Get the patient to go to the GP if necessary. I am trying to move
away from the idea that you should check and immunise everyone who presents with an injury - this is something
General Practice should be doing not the emergency services and departments. I'd rather you took everyone's
blood pressure.
Best wishes,
Rowley Cottingham
[log in to unmask]
http://www.emergencyunit.com
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