Revolution in emergency services: New concept for ME/CFS emergencies in Neumünster

Revolution in emergency services: New concept for ME/CFS emergencies in Neumünster

Something very special is happening in the rescue service in Neumünster! Under the leadership of Christoph Trockel, the medical director and specialist in anesthesiology, an innovative emergency concept for patients with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is being developed. This concept aims to take into account the particular vulnerability of ME/CFS patients during emergency operations, as a false alarm can often lead to an acute deterioration of the condition. The number of people affected has increased significantly since the corona pandemic and is estimated at around 650,000. Before the pandemic there were around 250,000.

ME/CFS is a complex disease that often occurs post-infectively, for example after viral infections. The Epstein-Barr virus, the influenza virus or even SARS-CoV-2 are often triggers. The symptoms are diverse and can vary greatly in severity, making the situation extremely stressful for those affected. A common problem among those affected is the fear of the body overreacting, which is why many people shy away from calling emergency services. Pascal Hillgruber, known as a radio presenter on NDR and himself an ME/CFS patient, has already described the new concept as a “historical milestone” that will finally give those affected the attention they need.

The measures in the new concept

A central goal of the project is to anchor knowledge about ME/CFS in the training and further education of emergency services. Planned training formats include both face-to-face training and e-learning offerings. Patients are asked to communicate their diagnosis right from the start to ensure better communication for everyone involved.

• Bewegungsarmer Transport
• Nutzung von Trauma-Beleuchtung im Rettungswagen (reizarmes, blaues Licht)
• Anpassung von Überwachungsgeräten auf den Nachtmodus
• Verzicht auf das Martinshorn zur Geräuschreduktion

Particular attention is also paid to the dosage of sedatives. These can often cause the condition to worsen, making treating an attack of ME/CFS particularly challenging. Close cooperation with hospitals and doctors' practices will be essential in order to be able to act in the best possible way in an emergency.

Future developments and outlook

The implementation of this groundbreaking concept in the Neumünster rescue service is planned for the coming year. The impetus should not only remain local, but should ultimately also be expanded to the state level. The aim is to create sustained awareness of the needs of ME/CFS patients and to more effectively sensitize care providers across the country.

The commitment in Neumünster could not only significantly improve the lives of those affected, but is also a valuable step in the right direction to address the challenges that ME/CFS brings with it. The details and success of the project are eagerly awaited.

Further information about the disease and the challenges can be found at mecfs.de.

For more background and current developments on the topic of emergency cleanup and specific measures for ME/CFS, take a look at the article by kn-online.de.