Enforcing standards, enhancing standards
By A1C D. Blake Browning, 380th Air Expeditionary Wing
/ Published January 19, 2018
AL DHAFRA AIR BASE, United Arab Emirates -- Airmen deployed across the world are expected to do their jobs in an austere environment while performing in a fast-paced operations tempo. One Airman stationed in the United Arab Emirates is doing more than expected.
On her first deployment, Senior Airman Kyleigh Hensley, 380th Expeditionary Medical Group aerospace medical technician, has made an impact within her unit on Al Dhafra Air Base that will have a positive impact for future rotations
By organizing over $78,000 in supplies, Hensley standardized the crash cart to comply with the most current Air Force Medical Service guidelines, expediting patient care in life threatening emergencies.
"When we first arrived at ADAB the previous crash cart wasn’t set up to be as efficient as it could have been," said Hensley.
A crash cart that is used in emergency situations contains items such as a defibrillator, intubation supplies, IV supplies, and supplies used for artificial respiration. However, in the expeditionary environment, access to supplies and standards are at times limited to on-hand provisions in support of the war fighter.
According to Master Sgt. Michael Paulsen, 380th Expeditionary Medical Group medical operations flight chief, Hensley modernized the crash cart under the Air Force Medical Service guidelines by customizing it to fit the unit’s area of responsibility
Each cart is now labeled and organized, allowing those assisting a medical emergency, the ability to look at the drawer and know what to grab. “Even if you weren’t 100% knowledgeable you would still be able to help,” said Hensley.
In addition to standardizing the crash cart, Hensley has also represented the Air Force as an outstanding ambassador while in the Middle East by facilitating three host nation medical appointments, six emergency transfers, and three aeromedical evacuations.
Through hard-work and dedication, Hensley has exceeded expectations and will continue to aim higher.
“Pride and a team-oriented mindset are what set Hensley apart,” said Paulsen. “She works at a level well above her paygrade and is truly an extraordinary medic.”