A 51-year-old man from Praia a Mare, who suddenly fell ill while on the beach, was saved thanks to the timely intervention of a local doctor who happened to be on site.
The man was in the company of some acquaintances inside a bathhouse when he lost consciousness and collapsed to the ground. The excited phases of first aid provided by those present attracted the attention of Pino De Lio, radiologist of the oncological screening of the ASP of Cosenza, who was walking on the seafront at the time.
Cardiac massage and defibrillator
Having understood the gravity of the situation, the doctor immediately intervened by performing cardiac massage on the man and alternating with one of those present waiting for the 118 emergency services. Once the ambulance arrived on site, he supported the on-board nurse in using the defibrillator supplied with the vehicle, managing to restore the cardiac rhythm and spontaneous circulation of the unfortunate victim.
In an ambulance without a doctor on board
Given the absence of the doctor on the emergency vehicle, De Lio boarded the ambulance to monitor the patient’s condition during the journey to the Praia a Mare hospital.
Four hours waiting, then the transfer to Catanzaro
The 52-year-old remained in the health center for around four hours due to the unavailability of beds in local facilities and the lack of specialist doctors. Finally, the man was transferred by ambulance to the «Mater Domini» hospital in Catanzaro, where he was admitted to intensive care before being declared out of danger.