Pinellas County EMS recognized for pediatric emergency readiness; reminds caregivers: Kids have strokes, too

Pinellas County Emergency Medical Services is asking parents and caregivers to stay stroke aware and know the warning signs of strokes in children.

“Kids have strokes, too,” said Pinellas County EMS Medical Director Dr. Angus Jameson. “Many people know to look out for strokes in adults but often miss the signs in children.  We want to be sure everyone is aware of the possibility of strokes in children.”

The reminder comes as Pinellas County EMS was recognized by the Florida Emergency Medical Services for Children State Partnership Program for excellence in pediatric emergency care. The Gold Tier recognition demonstrates Pinellas County’s commitment to the highest level of preparedness and response for medical emergencies involving children.

“Children are not small adults; they have unique emergency medical needs, and we all must be prepared to recognize and treat those needs,” Jameson said. “This recognition is an outstanding achievement, but we continue looking ahead at ways to remain focused on advancing pediatric emergency care through dedicated initiatives.”

These initiatives include mass casualty planning, specialized training for first responders, coordinated care procedures and pediatric stroke protocols.

Pinellas County EMS encourages parents and caregivers to learn the warning signs of pediatric stroke by remembering B.E.F.A.S.T.

B – Balance loss
E – Eye (vision changes)
F – Face drooping or twitching
A – Arm weakness
S – Speech difficulty
T –Time to call 911 immediately.

For more information about Emergency Medical Services in Pinellas County visit https://pinellas.gov/emergency-medical-services/.