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Last Friday, two paramedics from the Brussels fire department were victims of verbal and physical attacks by their patients while they were on the job.
The firefighters were called shortly after 8 a.m. to rescue a sick person at his home on rue de Bosnia in Saint-Gilles. The person was transferred by paramedics to Saint-Pierre Hospital. “Upon his arrival at the hospital, the patient suddenly changed his behavior and, without warning, punched one of the paramedics in the face,” explains the spokesperson for the Brussels Siamu Walter Derieuw. The police were immediately dispatched to the scene. “Our colleague was treated on the spot. Despite the emotional shock and the fact that the attack took place during the first intervention of the day, the rescuer showed a great sense of duty and continued his guard until the next morning,” adds Walter Derieuw.
Around 4:15 p.m., another team intervened on avenue de la Chasse in Etterbeek for a sick person on the public highway. Once arrived at the Saint-Michel hospital, one of the paramedics continued the questioning to arrive at a complete anamnesis. “When a ‘sensitive’ subject was brought up, the patient lost his temper, shouted insults and finally spat in the face of our colleague. The stretcher placed judiciously between the madman and the rescuers, avoided a physical attack” according to Walter Derieuw. The police also intervened. “The crew of this ambulance also showed a dedication to be highlighted and even continued their service. »
Siamu does not intend to let it go. “The internal ad hoc reports have been drawn up and we encourage those involved to file a complaint with the police. It will then be supported by the general management which, if necessary, will also be a civil party. Emotional and psychological support is also offered. »
Last Friday, two paramedics from the Brussels fire department were victims of verbal and physical attacks by their patients while they were on the job.
The firefighters were called shortly after 8 a.m. to rescue a sick person at his home on rue de Bosnia in Saint-Gilles. The person was transferred by paramedics to Saint-Pierre Hospital. “Upon his arrival at the hospital, the patient suddenly changed his behavior and, without warning, punched one of the paramedics in the face,” explains the spokesperson for the Brussels Siamu Walter Derieuw. The police were immediately dispatched to the scene. “Our colleague was treated on the spot. Despite the emotional shock and the fact that the attack took place during the first intervention of the day, the rescuer showed a great sense of duty and continued his guard until the next morning,” adds Walter Derieuw.
Around 4:15 p.m., another team intervened on avenue de la Chasse in Etterbeek for a sick person on the public highway. Once arrived at the Saint-Michel hospital, one of the paramedics continued the questioning to arrive at a complete anamnesis. “When a ‘sensitive’ subject was brought up, the patient lost his temper, shouted insults and finally spat in the face of our colleague. The stretcher placed judiciously between the madman and the rescuers, avoided a physical attack” according to Walter Derieuw. The police also intervened. “The crew of this ambulance also showed a dedication to be highlighted and even continued their service. »
Siamu does not intend to let it go. “The internal ad hoc reports have been drawn up and we encourage those involved to file a complaint with the police. It will then be supported by the general management which, if necessary, will also be a civil party. Emotional and psychological support is also offered. »
These attacks on paramedics are a concerning trend that needs to be addressed. These first responders are risking their lives every day to save others, and they deserve nothing but respect and gratitude. It is unacceptable that they are subjected to verbal and physical abuse while carrying out their duties. The Brussels fire department’s response to these incidents should serve as an example to authorities everywhere. The perpetrators must be held accountable, and measures need to be taken to prevent such incidents from happening in the future. Let us all show our appreciation for the brave men and women who dedicate their lives to saving others.