“Isn’t It Gratifying to Serve Humanity?” – A Paramedic’s Story of Saving a Life with EECC

It was a cold, rainy night in Nairobi when paramedic Dennis Nyangau received a distress call: a hit-and-run on a busy highway. No details, no names—just an unknown man lying somewhere in the dark, fighting for his life.

When Dennis and his team arrived, they found him unconscious, bleeding heavily from an open leg fracture, and dangerously unstable. Traffic sped by. Onlookers crowded. There was no time to lose.

The team acted fast, using the principles of Essential Emergency and Critical Care (EECC). A rigid collar was applied to protect his neck, bleeding was controlled with pressure and dressings, and the broken leg was immobilised. Oxygen was given through a portable cylinder, wet clothes were removed, and warm blankets placed over his shivering body. Large cannulas were inserted into his veins, fluids warmed before running in, and pain relief administered.

All the while, Dennis and his colleague worked systematically—checking circulation, breathing, consciousness, and vital signs. They logged every change, communicated with the hospital, and ensured the patient was safe for transfer.

By the time the ambulance reached the trauma bay, the man’s blood pressure had risen, his oxygen levels improved, and he was alive—ready for advanced surgical care. Two weeks later, Dennis visited him in hospital. The man was conscious, stable, and on his way to discharge.

For Dennis, it was a reminder of why this work matters:
"Understanding the needs of your patient, acting fast, and working as a team ensures patients get saved. EECC is safe, affordable, and life-saving. Isn’t it gratifying to serve humanity?"

This case shows that EECC is not only for hospitals—its principles guide lifesaving action in ambulances, emergency departments, and anywhere patients are critically ill. With simple tools, systematic care, and teamwork, even the most chaotic roadside emergency can end not in tragedy, but in life.

This is EECC: saving lives, from village clinics to city highways.