Clive,
As an experienced Registered Nurse having worked in a trauma surgery unit, may I add my reassurance that everything you did was the right. Each assessment and action and re-evaluation was the best action to take. When receiving trauma patients in the Operating Room, our teams were always so grateful to hear and see the results of committed, active first-responders. Getting oxygen was brilliant! Considering the fire risk of enriched oxygen environments following large scale disasters (any spark could start something burning), setting the flow to half was effective and safe. It's incredible support like yours that allows the surgeons to potentially make repairs that will offer the person a fuller life after recovery. The first "golden hour" after trauma makes more difference than many services provided by the destination hospital. You can't heal the souls that don't arrive.
On a personal note, I too was sobbing as I read your report and empathized with your agony, fear and anger. I was afraid to keep reading. I am so relieved and grateful that this child survived, cradled in the protection of your hard work and caring.
Heroes are rarely sure they did everything right....the difference is that, at the time, they knew they had to keep trying...and were unstoppable.
May the love of family and friends surround and heal you.
Claudette
