"Time Was of the Essence": How Quick Action Saved Fiorentina’s Bove
Fiorentina midfielder Edoardo Bove‘s medical emergency highlighted the importance of rapid response and established protocol in saving lives. Giovanni Ghini, president of the Military Brotherhood of Florence, commended the quick action taken on the night of December 2, 2024.
"From the moment Bove collapsed on the field, everything moved so quickly," Ghini states. "He was in the ambulance within just four minutes. The journey to the Careggi Hospital took another four minutes. He entered the emergency room 13 minutes after the incident. We define these types of situations as ‘time-dependent’, and a structured response like ours can make all the difference."
Ghini revealed the Passenger Manager Enzo was utilizing a portable defibrillator, highlighting the vital role of pre-hospital care as they transported Bove to the hospital.
“The ambulances stayed outside theark
“Bove was unconscious," explained Ghini. "During the journey to the hospital they defibrillated him and performed other essential resuscitation maneuvers. This was a serious situation, complex and requiring immediate attention."
While praising the immediate assistance from Fiorentina’s players, Ghini emphasized the importance of adhering to proper first-aid protocols.
"We appreciate the players’ helpfulness," Ghini said. "But it’s crucial to remember that improvisation isn’t always the best approach.
"Inserting fingers into a patient’s mouth is actually discouraged, for several reasons.
A conscious but still weak patient can abruptly close their mouth, mishandling could result in serious injury, particularly because thehiran-
"I want to underline the vital importance of taking first aid courses. Sure, it takes dedicated hours to complete the training, but those hours can be the difference between survival and tragedy."
What types of medical emergencies can occur during athletic events and how can they be prevented?
## “Time Was of the Essence”: How Quick Action Saved Fiorentina’s Bove
**Interviewer:** Welcome back to the show. We’re talking today about the frightening incident involving Fiorentina midfielder Edoardo Bove, who collapsed during Sunday’s match against Inter. Thankfully, he’s now awake and alert, and we’re joined by Giovanni Ghini, president of the Military Medical Society, to discuss the importance of rapid response in such situations. Mr. Ghini, thank you for joining us.
**Giovanni Ghini:** It’s a pleasure to be here.
**Interviewer:** Mr. Ghini, Bove’s collapse was a terrifying scene for everyone watching. Can you explain why quick action was crucial in this situation?
**Giovanni Ghini:** Absolutely. In cases of sudden collapse, especially in athletes who are exerting themselves, time is truly of the essence. Every second counts. The rapid recognition of the emergency and the immediate activation of emergency medical protocols were absolutely vital in ensuring Edoardo received the care he needed as quickly as possible [1](https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5960814/2024/12/02/edoardo-bove-fiorentina-update/).
**Interviewer:** Can you elaborate on those protocols? What kind of training is necessary for medical staff and first responders in these situations?
**Giovanni Ghini: **
These protocols are designed to be swift and comprehensive. They involve immediate assessment of the athlete’s condition, including checking vital signs and airway, followed by prompt initiation of CPR if necessary and the use of defibrillators when appropriate. Medical personnel, team doctors, paramedics, and even trained bystanders all play a crucial role in executing these protocols effectively.
Regular training and drills are essential to ensure everyone knows their role and can react quickly and decisively in high-pressure situations.
**Interviewer:** Mr. Ghini, this situation highlights the importance of having these protocols in place, not just in professional sports but in all aspects of life. What advice would you give to the general public?
**Giovanni Ghini:** It’s critical for everyone to be aware of basic first aid and CPR techniques. Learning these skills can empower individuals to potentially save a life in an emergency situation.
Additionally, promoting heart health and regular check-ups can help prevent these emergencies from happening in the first place.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for sharing your expertise with us, Mr. Ghini. We wish Edoardo Bove a speedy and full recovery.
