Ep 19. It's How You Play the Game

It's How You Play the Game is the nineteenth episode of the fourth season of Emergency!, a popular American TV series that aired from 1972 to 1979. Created by Jack Webb and Robert A. Cinader, the show chronicled the lives and adventures of the Los Angeles County Fire Department's Station 51 and Rampart Hospital's Emergency Room.

In this episode, the team at Station 51 responds to multiple emergencies, including a surfer who is injured after being hit with a surfboard, a young man injured by his horse while on a trail ride, and a traffic accident involving multiple vehicles. Meanwhile, in the Emergency Room, the doctors and nurses treat a variety of medical emergencies that range from a victim of child abuse to a patient suffering from severe burns.

As the episode unfolds, the characters are tested in various ways. The surfer, injured and in shock, challenges Johnny and Roy's medical skills as they work to stabilize his condition. The young man who was injured by his horse, a seasoned horse rider himself, shows a deep understanding and respect for his animal and manages to remain calm and level-headed even in the face of danger.

The traffic accident, which involves multiple vehicles and victims, places the team at Station 51 under immense pressure as they work tirelessly to extricate the victims and transport them to the hospital. The team's determination and quick thinking ultimately save the lives of several of the accident victims.

In the Emergency Room, the doctors and nurses are faced with challenging cases that push them to their limits. A patient suffering from severe burns requires immediate attention and specialized treatment. The team works tirelessly to save the patient's life, displaying their expertise and professionalism in the face of adversity. In another case, the doctors are faced with a victim of child abuse, prompting them to advocate for the child's welfare and take measures to ensure their safety.

Throughout the episode, the characters grapple with personal and professional challenges. Johnny struggles with his self-confidence in the aftermath of a patient's death and worries that he is not cut out for the job. Meanwhile, Dixie confronts a colleague who has a drinking problem, attempting to convince him to seek help before he endangers himself or others.

Overall, It's How You Play the Game is a compelling episode that showcases the skills, dedication, and compassion of the first responders and medical professionals who work to save lives every day. The episode's themes of courage, resilience, and teamwork serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of these individuals' work and the everyday heroes who perform it.