Question:
Is there a standard procedure for medics to check for them and where do they look?

I had read about getting a medical id bracelet after surgery and read what it should say, etc. But, do the medics even check for them and if so, where should it be worn? And, if we are buying these pretty ones to disquise that they are even a medical id bracelet at all how will they even know it's one? Just wondering if it's really worth it to get one and if it will ever be used if something should happen. I really have no idea and wondered if anyone knew the procedure medics follow to check for them and do they scan your entire body to see if you have an ankle bracelet, neck chain, bracelet, charm, etc., really seems like a lot to have to look for in case of an emergency. Maybe I just watch too much tv? Any input would be appreciated, thanks!    — Dee ,. (posted on December 30, 2002)

December 30, 2002
hiya. i'm an emt and wls patient. yes, we check your whole body (and wallet if you are unconcious) for any kind of medical id. as far as needing a med id tag, my surgeon didn't think it was necessary and for myself, neither do i. but if it gives you peace of mind, go for it! {{hugs}} kate open rny 6-14-01 pre op: 268lbs goal: 135lbs current: 124lbs
   — jkb

December 30, 2002
I just wanted to add that, bieng a Paramedic myself, Yes we are suppose to scan the whole body for Medical Alert tags and check patients wallets but during a True Emergency You will be asked your medical history and allergies if you are able to answer or your family will be asked. The likely situation would be that if you were in a car accident or something and you were not able to answer our questions and no one was with you that did know your medical problems then to be honest with you we would know you had some type of major surgery when we cut your clothes off and seen the scar. The only procedure that we would do that could be of danger to you is putting a tube into your throat to breath for you. If that tube were to not go where it is suppose to and go into your esophagus your stomach could be over expanded with air and cause a problem. In the hospital they need to know so that they avoid putting a Naso Gastric tube down your nose into your stomach. Air can build up and cause vomiting and so forth. Your most safe route is to make sure that your family knows your complete history and medications and that you keep a list of these problems with you in your purse at all times, Best kept with your ID because Police Officers or First Responders give us that information when we get there.
   — Rebecca B.

December 30, 2002
Thanks guys for your answers. Good to know how things work. Although I understand the need for a bracelet I also agree with my surgeon and that it's highly unlikely that I will ever need it for a reason. I would rather buy some more diamonds or a nice tennis bracelet instead! Thanks.
   — Dee ,.

December 31, 2002
My bracelet cost about $16.00, including engraving and shipping. Please let me know where I can purchase diamonds for that price!!!
   — Beth S.

December 31, 2002
I don't know what the "norm" is, but during a support group meeting, an EMT stated that unless your medic ID is on your wrist, they are not likely to see it!! They say in an emergency, that's the only place THEY look. (Maybe just in this area...), But I'd love to know where the poster who got it for $16 got theirs....would you email me, or post the info?
   — Kelly B.