Maine East students get look at trauma care

More than 160 sophomores from Maine East High School took part this month in Advocate Lutheran General Hospital’s “Trauma Day.”

The event gave students a chance to tour many areas of the Park Ridge hospital, meet with caregivers, and learn procedures and services associated with Lutheran General’s Level I Trauma Center, the state’s highest designation for trauma care.

The goals of Trauma Day include encouraging students to avoid serious trauma injuries by wearing seat belts, driving safely and avoiding drug and alcohol impaired drivers.

In addition to visiting the hospital and participating in activities, students heard from a panel of former local trauma patients who told their stories of near-death experiences and struggles to overcome the effects of trauma. All of the panelists’ injuries were severe and they required immediate lifesaving treatment and extensive follow-up care at Lutheran General.

Activities included a helipad demonstration, rehabilitation experience and a safety station featuring the hazards of drinking and driving.

The students were selected to attend Trauma Day through a fundraising drive to benefit Maine East High School’s Health Center, a partnership between Maine East High and Advocate Medical Group.