Asking EMTs, Medics, Nurses or MDs...Medic Alerts?

Question

I'm a long time diabetic. I'm also an EMT. As we all know, medic alerts are life savers. I wear minimal jewelry (an engagement ring, necklace, small earrings and a watch). I do not wear a medic alert bracelet. Some years ago when I lost my 4th bracelet, I stopped wearing one. I decided since the diabetes wasn't going to go away, I got a medic alert tattoo. It's a red caduceus with "IDDM" underneath it. It's on my abdomen at about waist level. My question is how many of you have seen medic alert tattoos? Do you think they are as effective as a bracelet or necklace? I still carry a medic alert card in my wallet (I am a member of Medic Alert). The tattoo is easily seen. I have asked others and the opinions seem to be fairly evenly divided. Would you look for a tattoo? If so, where would you look? I'd be interested to know what others think. Thanks.

Answer 1

I have been a CCEMTP for close to 10 years and I have seen a lot of people with Medic-Alert tattoos. Though I can say that I have never seen one on a diabetic - the majority or "Alert" tattoos that I have seen are DNR on the chest with the doctor's actual signature.

As an EMT yourself, you should think about this: How many non-traumatic calls do you go on? And of those calls, how many times have you cut/removed your patient's clothing? I know personally, I haven't done it very often. Even on a cardiac call, I hardly ever completely remove my patient's shirt (unless it is a full code). Also, how many non-medical people know what IDDM means?

I think that the tattoo is a great idea, but I would not completely rely on it. I saw in JEMS the other day an advertisement for a company that makes Medical Alert nylon watch bands - for health care professionals who can't wear a metal watch, etc. when they are working. I can't remember the exact name of the company, but I did find a couple other sites that offer similar products.

Basically, I wouldn't trust my life solely on a tattoo. I am severely allergic to PCN and as much of a pain it is, I always wear my bracelet - and I've been through quite a few myself.

I wish you the best of luck and hope this information helps!!

Answer 2

Interesting question. I have never heard of a Medic alert tattoo, I think it is a good idea, but as someone pointed out the EMT's etc will not be removing much clothing on a collapsed person, and if the did I would think that they would not be really looking at a any tattoo on a persons body, especially on the tummy.

However a visible tat on the wrist would be great idea, especially if you have collapsed a member of public is trying to help you, they maybe able to notify the emergency services of you medical status.

Maybe you could talk to the Medic alert people and raise this idea of a tat, as an option for some people.

I have to wear a Medic alert bracelet all the time, but my problem is the local hospital does NOT recognise my bracelet and card, or they question me at length. Very annoying when I can hardly breath (asthma) or think due to pain or near unconscious. Considering my Doctor has to fill in the form and then sign, it is I believe a legal document, so why is hospital not taking notice is beyond me. For this reason my husband who is insulin diabetic will not wear one.

I have spoken to Medic alert and they will help me to set up a talk with the local hospital, and make them more aware of Medic alerts and the need to take Medic alerts seriously.

Good luck and take care.

Answer 3

I believe that it is a great idea,although I think if the medical reason for being a medic alert member is severe enough,the tatoo should be placed in a more obvious place such as the wrist.I very seldom have to remove a patient's clothing on a medical call,such as diabetic emergencies.Cardiac calls are a different story as you know,and a tatoo on the chest alerting of a pacer,etc.would be helpful.

Answer 4

I'm NOT an EMT, Medic, Nurse, or MD but I am going to EMT school at the moment and I think that the tatoo is a great idea & because I read this I am going to always make sure that I am looking for tatoos also.

Answer 5

I was a medic in the military and you get a lot of the meat tags' that are replicas of dog tags. This helped out with knowing what kind of antibiotics to push after a marine was shoot and who not to use iodine on and that sort of stuff. I think its a good idea but I don't know if thats a standardized thing to be on the waist. I would not personally look there unless I was doing a trauma assessment. But hell who knows. I think that is better then nothing. Thanks for taking a step forward with your health.

Good luck.

Answer 6

how about wearing a medic alert necklace, just to be on the safe side. I do think the tatoo is a great idea, but am afraid that people who dont have a condition, may actually get your idea and make it into a trend... have you seen people with sku/barcodes tatooed on?

Answer 7

I have never seen one. I have a feeling that it might not be looked at until you were unconscious somewhere though! Personally, if there was a standard place for all to be placed, it wouldn't be a bad idea, but looking on the abdomen might not be the first place people looked!

Answer 8

I,ve been an EMT for alot of years. I agree with KB. On a medical emergency you don't usually expose. However, before everyone jump on me, yes,if you are unconscious and we had no clue as to what was wrong, then yes, it would be a good idea to expose for bites,punctures,rash etc. Thanks for making us more aware.

Answer 9

I think this is a really good idea. you can't loss a tatoo and it never goes away. I have yet to see one in my EMS career but I hope to see more.