COLUMBIA — Emergency medical services students from Columbia State Community College dominated the fourth annual Battle of the Smokies competition in Sevierville this spring, earning first-place finishes in both the Student Advanced Life Support and Student Basic Life Support divisions. More than 25 teams from Tennessee community colleges, county EMS agencies, and mine rescue crews competed at the March 4 event, according to Columbia State.
In the Advanced Life Support division, Columbia State's paramedic students took first and fourth place, with Roane State Community College placing second and third. In the Basic Life Support division, Columbia State's Advanced EMT students swept first and second place. The competition scenario involved treating multiple patients after a simulated side-by-side utility vehicle crash, with smoke and other hazards testing students' clinical skills and situational awareness. Teams were scored on patient assessment speed, quality of medical interventions, and readiness for transport.
EMS Program Director Gregory S. Johnson said he was incredibly proud of the students' dedication to clinical excellence, adding that their paramedic and AEMT students performed at an incredible level and showcased their ability to think critically in a complex situation. Students also earned eight hours of continuing education credit through the competition and accompanying conference. Columbia State President Dr. Janet F. Smith was on hand to celebrate the achievement with the winning teams.