Touchdown at the MCG
When millions of fans around the world tune in to Friday's NFL game at the MCG, they can do so knowing that The Alfred will be ready to respond should a medical emergency arise.
Building on the The Alfred's reputation and experience providing emergency and trauma care for major events like the Melbourne F1 Grand Prix, a team of 12 specialist medical staff have been engaged to provide emergency medical support for the NFL's players and staff.
Director of The Alfred's Emergency and Trauma Centre Dr Carl Luckhoff, who will act as hospital liaison for the event, said it's an important professional development opportunity for staff.
"The team are excited to be providing emergency support at another large-scale event," Dr Luckhoff said.
"It's the first time we'll be working from the MCG which is a new location and scale for us.
"With that comes the chance to design, prepare and practice a new set of emergency scenarios.
"It's also an opportunity for staff to liaise and collaborate with their international counterparts and learn their systems."
NFL Director of International Games Medical Operations Dr Jim Ellis, who organises medical support for all NFL games played outside the US, said identifying and partnering with an exceptional healthcare provider is essential in guaranteeing player safety.
"Obviously we're a collision sport, and we have the potential for chest injuries, abdominal injuries, head injuries and neck injuries," Dr Ellis said.
"So we need a big trauma centre. We need a big hospital.
"The Alfred has a ton of experience providing emergency support for the Formula One and other big events.
"They're just absolutely perfect partners for what we need."
Senior Emergency Nurse Hayley Baker led the set-up of the pop-up emergency room at the MCG, complete with resuscitation, x-ray and ultrasound capability.
"We also have protocols for taking players to The Alfred if they need anything that can't be done on site," Hayley said.
The team will also support medical requirements unique to American football.
"Four of our critical care nurses will act as oxygen technicians," Hayley said.
"They'll be positioned on the field and can supply players with oxygen as needed throughout the game, which is something we don't typically see in Australian sport.
"At the end of the day, we're grateful for the opportunity and the challenge.
"We prepare for the worst-case scenario but hope for the best, which is that everyone enjoys the game and has a great day out."
