Weekly First-aid Topic: Racing against time to protect health
From:Beijing Municipal Health Commission
Date:06/06/2025

On the afternoon of May 18, 2025, as the emergency team from the West Emergency Station of Beijing Emergency Medical Center, led by Dr. Song Ci, was having lunch, an urgent dispatch call was received: a family member reported that a patient had suddenly lost consciousness at home and required immediate medical assistance. The team promptly set down their meals and rushed to the scene. En route, Dr. Song contacted the family to assess the patient’s condition and provide emergency guidance.

Upon arriving at the patient’s home, Dr. Song Ci and nurse Li Yikang quickly and efficiently divided tasks: while conducting a physical examination, they inquired about the patient’s medical history. Learning that the patient had diabetes and was currently using insulin to manage blood sugar, Dr. Song immediately performed a blood glucose test — the result was alarming: only 1.7 mmol/L. The situation was critical. Dr. Song promptly gave the medical order: “Establish intravenous access and administer 20 ml of 50% glucose solution.” However, the patient was elderly, frail, and had poor vascular elasticity, making the venipuncture extremely difficult. Thanks to the emergency team’s exceptional medical skills and seamless cooperation, they successfully established venous access without causing unnecessary discomfort to the patient. As the glucose solution was slowly infused, the patient’s consciousness gradually returned.

Seeing their loved one brought back from danger, the familyexpressed deep gratitude. Prioritizing the patient’s ongoing safety, Dr. Song recommended hospital transfer for further observation and treatment. He also took the time to patiently advise the family: “The elderly must not be left alone. Insulin must be administered strictly according to medical instructions. It’s also advisable to keep candy or snacks at home in case of another hypoglycemic episode.”

From the urgency of the dispatch to the precision of the rescue, from professional medical care to compassionate follow-up advice, Dr. Song Ci’s emergency team fully embodied the physician’s oath to put life first. Through exemplary technical skill and genuine concern, they built a strong and reassuring line of defense for the patient’s health and safety.