EHAAT boosts pre-hospital head injury care with pupillometer technology

As part of its strategy to advance care for individuals experiencing sudden and unexpected injuries, Essex & Herts Air Ambulance (EHAAT) has introduced six new NPi-300 Pupillometers. Critical care doctors and paramedics routinely assess pupil size and reactivity as part of a complex evaluation to determine injury severity. This examination also helps guide the initiation of lifesaving treatments at the scene and during transport to the hospital.

Serious head injuries are common in the incidents attended by EHAAT, and early intervention is key to improving patient outcomes. Traditionally, pupil assessments have relied on subjective observation using a pen torch. The pupillometer, however, provides an objective, specific measurement, supporting clinicians in making informed treatment decisions at the roadside.

The pupillometer will be used as part of the initial patient assessment and throughout their journey to the hospital. By identifying subtle neurological changes, it will assist EHAAT’s clinicians in determining the best course of treatment and the most appropriate hospital destination for each patient.

This development results from the work of EHAAT’s Head Injury Special Interest Group at its Centre for Excellence. The operational team has undergone specific training and developed specialist guidance for using pupillometers in the early stages of patient care.

The pupillometer is a non-invasive device, meaning it does not cause any pain or discomfort to the patient. It works by capturing a close-up image of the pupil and using advanced calculations to generate precise numerical data. EHAAT’s team interprets this information within the context of their overall patient assessment.

Laurie Phillipson, EHAAT Critical Care Paramedic, emphasized the significance of this technology: “This device removes the subjectivity from pupillary assessments. It provides reliable, numerical data, taking the guesswork out of the process, which is beneficial for our teams, who often work in extraordinary conditions with extremely ill or injured patients. It is a straightforward piece of equipment to use, but the benefits it provides in helping assess and monitor the patient’s condition could be significant.”

The acquisition of the six pupillometers has been made possible through the generosity of EHAAT’s supporters.

Last year EHAAT announced Jonathan Ager as its new Deputy CEO.