Have you ever thought about what your child would do in an emergency situation where you or the adult they were with became unconscious or unresponsive? Would they know how to call 9-1-1? Would they know what to tell the 9-1-1 operator? Would they be able to tell emergency responders the medical information that is needed to save your life? Teaching your child how to do these things is highly encouraged; however, there are some circumstances that just won’t allow for it. Your child may be too young or they may not be able to remember everything. Let’s face it, can you even pronounce some of the medications you take? Can you, as an adult, list the prescriptions and dosage your parents are on from memory? Most likely not; however, there is a simple solution, a Vial of L.I.F.E. Form.
Vial of L.I.F.E. is a document that provides a person’s basic medical information to medical personnel in the event that you were unable to provide it yourself.
- L
- Lifesaving
- I
- Information
- F
- For
- E
- Emergencies
It Could Save Your Life
In the event that you fall victim to a medical emergency that leaves you unconscious, unresponsive, or unable to speak, a Vial of Life Form will inform firefighters, paramedics, or any other first responders of your medical condition and personal information. A current and complete form will allow for medical responders to properly treat you without having to rely on information being dictated from a child or other individual who may not be familiar with your health. When you are unable to speak for yourself, or are confused, in pain, scared, or so overwhelmed that you cannot remember pertinent information, the Vial of Life can speak for you.
Making Your Vial of Life
1. Print out a Vial of L.I.F.E. form for each person in your family.
2. Fill out the Vial of L.I.F.E. form by answering any questions pertinent to you.
3. Place the completed Vial of L.I.F.E. form in a clear, plastic bag such as a sheet protector or Ziploc bag. Make sure the refrigerator is not cluttered and the Vial of Life Form is easily visible to emergency responders. Fire Departments who use Vial of Life will know to check the refrigerator for forms.
4. Use the Vial of L.I.F.E. decal to secure the form to the front of your refrigerator.
Important Parts of a Vial of Life Form
Patient Information
Name
Gender
Address
Phone Number
Date of Birth
Social Security Number
Primary Language
Height
Weight
Hair Color
Eye Color
Blood Type
Religion
Hearing or Vision Impairments
Identifying Marks
Health Information
Current Medical Conditions
Past Medical Conditions
Last Hospitalization
Current Medications (include dosage and frequency)
Allergies to Medications
Doctor’s Name and Phone Number
Hospital Preference
Insurance Information
Emergency Contacts
Name
Address
Phone Number
Relationship to You
Additional Information
Date form was completed
Any wishes or special instructions
A current photograph (for proper identification)
Living Will
Do Not Resuscitate Order
A recent copy of your last EKG (if applicable)
Everyone Will Benefit
Children
If you have a child who takes prescription medications or has a medical condition, complete a Vial of Life form for them. You may not always be with your child and instead of trying to explain your child’s health to a different adult every time you are not with them, just advise the adult or guardian that your child has a Vial of Life form and it can be found in a place such as their backpack or pocket in the event of a medical emergency.
Adults
Even the healthiest of people with no history of medical issues may experience a medical emergency that affects their ability to provide lifesaving information to medical providers. A Vial of Life form can also be kept in a wallet, purse, or the glove box of your vehicle.
Seniors
Seniors experience many changes in their health. Doctors frequently alter medications and dosage for elderly adults. It is important to keep the Vial of Life form updated as any medical changes occur.
This post is meant for educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace medical advice from your physician, doctor, or health care professional. Please read our terms of use for more information.
Sources: Vial of Life Project
Photo Credits: Sasha Staton, Pixabay
