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From: Rob.Carr@f26.n129.z1.fidonet.org (Rob Carr)
Newsgroups: misc.handicap
Subject: Sign Word for Paramedic
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Date: 25 Jan 91 16:48:09 GMT
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Index Number: 13202

[This is from the Silent Talk Conference]

There are simple words for doctor, nurse, hospital, and such.  There is no
word in common usage for paramedic or EMT.  Since, for a lot of people,
we are the first representative for the medical system in an emergency, a
word for us folks would be useful.

Suggestion 1:  Since all paramedics are EMTs, fingerspell the initials
               EMT.

Suggestion 2:  3 line asterisk over heart.  Similar to policeman's badge, but
               a star of life (looks like an asterisk * only the bar's
               vertical).  A "p" in the same place would NOT work in
               Pittsburgh (too close to word for Pgh) and everyone would
               sign back "You aren't Karen Walkney!" (local joke)

Suggestion 3:  3 line asterisk over sleeve, like hospital and infirmary.

My preference is for Suggestion 2, but if anyone has any comments or knows
of a sign already in use, please let me know.

... Subscribe to The Journal of Disasters in Emergency Medicine: $8.00/yr

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