Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Paramedic of the Year Award - Lt. Steve Palmieri

Lt. Palmieri has been with the department for eight years, serving as a Rescue Officer for the past three.

In early February, Rescue and Engine 32 were dispatched to a cardiac arrest at Seminole Casino. Upon arrival CPR was in progress. Shortly after arrival and interventions, the patient regained a pulse and became agitated. Steve quickly and efficiently made the decision to Rapid Sequence Induction (RSI) the patient and initiated central cooling. That patient walked out of the hospital, alive and well, due in substantial part to Steve’s critical thinking, quick action and leadership abilities.

Steve is also very involved with the department’s new paramedics. Teaching and mentoring comes naturally to him. It is not unusual for him to receive phone calls at all hours of the day and night from rookie paramedics throughout the county seeking his guidance or advice.

Additionally, during the implementation of the Electronic Patient Care Reporting System (ePCRS), Steve helps crews learn and troubleshoot issues to make sure reports are completed and uploaded. Often when staff is busy or cannot help a crew with an issue, Steve will assist whether he is on duty or not.

Lt. Steve Palmieri is the consummate patient advocate. His actions and decisions consistently place the best interests of his patients above all else.

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