Two children were airlifted this morning by the ER24 Medicopter in Wellington after they sustained serious neck injuries during a school rugby game.
In the first incident paramedics on duty at the rugby game along with spectators witnessed a 14 year old boy falling hard to the ground during a tackle. While paramedics kept an eye on the boy they noticed that he did not get up from the ground.
During their medical examination the paramedics found that the boy was complaining of extreme pain in his neck and chest. The young rugby player was immobilised on the field and taken to the first aid station. The boy’s condition deteriorated on the scene when he started to complain of difficulty in breathing.
The ER24 Medicopter was called to the scene to airlift the boy to the Cape Gate Medi-Clinic where he will be treated for his injuries.
In another incident on the field a 16 year old boy also sustained injuries during a tackle. When paramedics arrived on the field and started their medical examination, they found that the boy had a possible spine injury. The young rugby player could not move his legs at the time.
After the boy was immobilised and taken to the first aid station, paramedics consulted with the ER24 Chief Medical Officer on duty. It was determined that the boy needed urgent specialised medical attention.
The ER24 Medicopter was called back to the scene to airlift the boy to the Cape Gate Medi-Clinic where a medical team was waiting for his arrival.
Fortunately the ER24 Medicopter was able to land on an open rugby field on both occasions.
Werner Vermaak, ER24
