Cataldo Ambulance Service Announces 2010 Stars of Life

Cataldo Sends three to D.C. for Excellent Patient Care Stars Of Life April 1, 2010 - The Stars of Life Celebration is an annual Nationwide Celebration the publicly recognizes and celebrates the achievements of all those individuals working in the EMS industry. This program honors outstanding individuals as a thank you for their service to the sick and injured. The program features meetings with members of Congress on Capitol Hill, where the Stars of Life themselves will deliver important information to their U.S. Representatives and Senators on the value of quality ambulance services as a key component of an effective and efficient health care delivery system.

Shailagh Coffey has been an employee at Cataldo Ambulance Service since 2004. Shailagh began her tenure at Cataldo as an EMT-Basic and quickly moved into the Paramedic position. Shailagh's nomination was based on her positive attitude, compassionate patient care and strong work ethic. Ms. Coffey is an example for all. Shailagh maintains a positive attitude with co-workers, patients and facility staff regardless of a difficult situation.

On August 23, 2009, Paramedic Coffey encountered a young boy who was struck by a car. As she immediately began to treat the boy, she remained calm and professional and continued to effectively apply direct pressure to the arterial bleed. Shailagh's compassion and sympathetic nature became apparent as she continuously made efforts to communicate with the child to keep him in a state of consciousness. Shailagh's compassionate and efficient patient care was instrumental in the successful outcome and recovery of the young child. Shailagh's professional and personal attributes are recognized and commended by her peers and management alike at Cataldo Ambulance Service.

Sean O'Brien has been with Cataldo Ambulance Service since 2005. Sean is recognized as a Star of Life and selected based on his professionalism, commitment and exemplary skills as a first responder. Sean is described as a dedicated, competent and professional public safety official with an unyielding desire to excel and better his career as an EMT. Sean is commended as consistently going above and beyond in his attempts to provide the best care possible to his patients. Recognized as a great educator, Sean is always willing to educate others and work closely with new employees to help them develop their skills further.

EMT O'Brien's professional and exceptional clinical skills were highlighted during a recent incident in which he and his partner responded to a 911 call for a reported woman in labor. With the assistance of the local fire department, EMT O'Brien successfully aided in the delivery of a highly complicated breech birth. Throughout the rare delivery, O'Brien stayed calm and focused and was able to successfully deliver the healthy baby. Sean's leadership and commitment are recognized by his peers and management alike at Cataldo Ambulance Service.

Heather Ortins has been with Cataldo Ambulance Service since 2007. Heather is recognized as a 2010 Star of Life due to her exceptional pre-hospital care and competency as an EMT-Basic. Heather is described as a highly competent and compassionate practitioner who delivers exceptional patient care while always maintaining a positive and professional attitude. Heather is a professional EMT with an empathetic personality commended for being able to connect with a diverse group of patients, healthcare workers and fellow co-workers. Ortins is noted for adapting well to challenging, stressful situations throughout a busy emergency community.

On June 14, 2009, EMT Ortins administered exceptional patient care as she assisted in the complex delivery of a breech birth. Heather Ortins' proficient skills and empathetic nature were highlighted during these successful efforts from the Fire Department and partner Sean O'Brien. Due to the dedication and high skill level of these two EMTs, the rare delivery was a positive outcome for both mother and newborn. Heather Ortin's competency, compassion and delightful personality are recognized by her peers and management alike at Cataldo Ambulance Service.

Cataldo's three Star of Life recipients will represent the company in Washington D.C. during the National Celebration May 2nd - May 5th, 2010.