Air Idaho Rescue 2 and 5 now carry whole blood

The Air Idaho Rescue rotary-wing and fixed-wing bases in Idaho Falls are proud to announce they now carry and can administer whole blood onboard every air medical transport. Their bases in Driggs and Salmon already carry whole blood, so now the entire Air Idaho Rescue fleet can utilize this improved resource. Having whole blood aboard their helicopter and fixed-wing plane allows their trauma clinicians to provide additional lifesaving care when every minute counts.

“Whole blood contains red blood cells, plasma and platelets. When doing blood resuscitation, you need all three components to help replace what was lost and with coagulation (blood clotting),” said Teather Campbell, Clinical Director with Air Methods, parent company of Air Idaho Rescue. “So instead of just giving packed red blood cells, we are giving everything needed to replace blood loss and clotting factors to help stop bleeding.”

The crews previously carried packed red blood cells and plasma, and are excited to now carry whole blood, which offers superior outcomes for patients suffering from trauma or hemorrhagic shock. It is particularly valuable in rural areas where there may be limited access to donated blood. Since Air Idaho Rescue carries its own blood supply, its clinicians can administer it in-flight while preserving hospital stock.

A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons found that whole blood transfusions improve the 30-day survival rate of patients suffering from hemorrhagic shock by 60%. The earlier that patients receive whole blood, the better their outcomes, showing the significance of pre-hospital transfusion. Moderately to severely injured patients, including those with head injuries, particularly benefit from whole blood transfusions.

“The people of Idaho enjoy the beautiful landscape and backcountry activities this state has to offer, but it means they need access to critical lifesaving interventions when they face medical emergencies,” said Jill Egan, Account Executive with Air Methods. “Between the many outdoor activities and the rural terrain in the state, whole blood is ideal for the type of injuries we see.”

Air Methods subsidiary Wyoming Life Flight also recently announced that it had taken the move to carry whole blood on its aircraft.