A Routine Task Turns Dangerous
It was a typical day at work for Chad Wood at the Farmers Co-Op in Shell Rock—until a maintenance task took a terrifying turn. While working with anhydrous ammonia, a hazardous chemical commonly used in farming, Chad was suddenly exposed to a leak. Before he could react, he had already inhaled the gas—and some of the liquid splashed onto his skin. Almost immediately, Chad’s voice grew hoarse, he began coughing, and his face turned red. Within moments, he was struggling to breathe.
Emergency Response at WHC
Chad was rushed to the Emergency Room at Waverly Health Center, where the situation became critical. The hazmat team was activated to protect staff and patients, while the emergency team prepared to act fast. Dr. Jens Olson and the ER staff responded with urgency and compassion. As Chad’s airway continued to swell and his breathing worsened, the team made the critical decision to intubate him.
Stabilizing Chad’s Condition
To help his lungs and throat recover, Chad was placed in a medically induced coma for 36 hours. During that time, the WHC team worked tirelessly to stabilize him. But the care didn’t stop there. Nurses also looked after Chad’s wife, Julie, who waited by his side. “They brought me chocolate, sat with me, and made sure I never felt alone,” she said. “They didn’t just treat Chad like a patient; they treated both of us like family.”
A Warning for the Farming Community
Anhydrous ammonia accidents are a very real danger in Iowa’s farming communities, especially during planting and fertilizing seasons. Without immediate treatment, exposure can be life-threatening. Chad’s story is a powerful reminder of the risks farmers face every day and the importance of quick, informed emergency care.
Grateful for a Full Recovery
Thanks to the expert care at WHC, Chad made a full recovery. He and Julie remain deeply thankful for the support they received during such a frightening time. At Waverly Health Center, we’re proud to care for our community when it matters most. In a town like ours, neighbors look out for each other and that’s exactly what we do.
