When we received the 120 dispatch call, the caller was unreachable and the exact location was unknown, recalled Nurse Luo Yuan from the Emergency Department of Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University. 39 Health learned that on December 26, Nurse Luo experienced a "highly challenging" emergency dispatch where the caller's precise address was unattainable, and the suspected location yielded no matching records.Through the combined efforts of Dr. Wang Pengfei from the emergency department, Nurse Luo Yuan, and the neighborhood committee, the patient was eventually located after considerable difficulty.
Emergency call abruptly disconnected; team conducts door-to-door search
Dispatch order form
The dispatch order retained by Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital's Emergency Department listed the patient's name as "Unknown." Further investigation revealed that when the 120 dispatch center received the call, the caller hung up abruptly before fully explaining the situation. Subsequent attempts to call back reached a disconnected line. Due to the caller's unclear pronunciation, the operator could only record a suspected address.Upon receiving the dispatch, the emergency department immediately dispatched a rescue team to the suspected address.
Dr. Wang Pengfei recalled that upon arriving at the street indicated on the order form, the team learned from nearby residents that the house number at the suspected address "didn't exist at all."After coordination, the 120 command center pinpointed several locations between Panxi Restaurant and Liwan Lake in Yuexiu District via phone. Suspecting the caller had likely lost consciousness and was in critical condition, the team decided to search door-to-door within the residential complex.
Knocking on doors while loudly asking if anyone had called 120, the team searched extensively but found no leads, leaving the rescue operation at an impasse.
Community Committee Steps In to Pinpoint Target, Team Completes Rescue with Ingenuity
As time ticked away, the rescue team grew increasingly concerned for the caller. To broaden their search, they contacted the local community committee. After understanding the situation, the committee immediately led the emergency team to the residences of two elderly individuals living alone within the neighborhood. Still, they failed to locate the patient.
Just as the rescue effort reached another dead end, the team suddenly thought to search for the WeChat account via the phone. They discovered a WeChat ID named "Shao." After recontacting the 120 command center, the team learned the caller was likely an elderly person surnamed Chen. Through concerted efforts, the neighborhood committee and the team finally located a suspected elderly resident living nearby. The rescue team immediately drove to the address.
Upon arrival, the emergency team found the door locked. Peering through the crack, they spotted an elderly man lying motionless on the floor. Dr. Wang Pengfei acted swiftly, reaching through the gap to unlock the iron gate latch. Only then could the team reach the distressed individual.
Patient Diagnosed with Acute Cerebral Infarction; Green Channel Saves Life
According to Dr. Wang Pengfei, the patient presented with complete right-sided hemiplegia and slurred speech. Initial examination indicated acute cerebral infarction. The team swiftly transported him to the ambulance, where emergency interventions were administered. The patient gradually regained consciousness.
Upon arrival at the hospital emergency department, the team immediately activated the stroke green channel. The patient underwent a timely CT scan while neurology and neurosurgery teams rushed to the scene for consultation. Through multidisciplinary collaboration, the optimal treatment plan was formulated. Currently, the patient has passed the critical phase and remains under observation in the emergency department.
How to Call for Help in Emergencies? Clearly Describe Symptoms and Location
In an emergency, how can you correctly dial 120 to ensure the emergency team locates the patient promptly?
Dr. Wang Pengfei advises that symptoms such as dizziness, weakness in one side of the body, reduced mobility, numbness on one side, slurred speech, or difficulty swallowing may indicate a cerebral infarction/stroke. Immediate 120 assistance should be sought.
Simultaneously, ensure a healthy, alert family member or friend remains nearby to handle potential emergencies. During the emergency call, the patient or assisting relative must clearly state the address—down to the district, street, and house number—and keep the line open to maintain direct communication with responders, enhancing rescue efficiency.
While awaiting emergency services, both the patient and their companion should remain as calm as possible. If the patient vomits, position them face-down or on their side to allow vomit to drain freely and prevent airway obstruction. Avoid repeatedly changing the patient's position to prevent falls. For external bleeding, apply pressure using tissues or a dry towel to stop the bleeding.