Emergency Dispatch Terminology Flashcards

Study Notes

D - Dispatch

Combines location of the dispatcher and destination (e.g., Atlanta Fire Station 1 dispatched to 400 N Appleton).
Captures demographics of the patient, specifically age and gender (e.g., 47-year-old female with abdominal pain).
Records unit number, response code, and personnel involved (e.g., Medic 1 responding code 1 with NRP Jackson, AEMT Smith, NREMT White).
Notes additional information received en route (e.g., patient found outside the residence).
Details directions upon arrival (e.g., EMS directed to curb).
Describes patient’s condition on arrival (e.g., patient found bent at the waist, clutching stomach, in obvious distress).

C - Chief Complaint

Encompasses the patient’s own words regarding the reason for calling EMS.

H(x) - History

Utilizes OPQRST for pain assessment (e.g., awakened by intense pain).
Implements SAMPLE method for medical history.

A - Assessment

Evaluates mental status using AVPU scale.
Monitors ABCs (airway, breathing, circulation) stresses potential trouble in breathing.
Checks lung sounds.
Conducts physical exam, providing rapid or focused findings.
Records vital parameters including blood glucose and temperature.

R(x) - Treatment

Indicates that patient assessment is performed initially.
Vitals are taken and documented.
Identifies pertinent negatives in findings.
Accounts for treatment administered prior to EMS arrival and by EMT upon arrival.
Assesses the effect of care on patient’s condition (improvement or no change).
Ensures patient is positioned comfortably in the ambulance with seat belts applied.

T - Transport to Hospital

Specifies transport code (e.g., code 1 to OSF Saint Francis) and any upgrades or downgrades.
Mentions reassessment and monitoring of patient condition during transport (e.g., slight improvement).
Requires notification of hospital regarding patient status, treatment, and ETA (e.g., communication with OSF about condition).
Includes transfer of patient care to hospital staff and obtaining necessary signatures.
Covers the aftermath post-transfer for EMS, including cleaning and restocking of the medic unit.

E - Exceptions

Documents any significant weather or traffic conditions affecting the EMS response or transport.

Description

This quiz focuses on key terminology related to emergency dispatch, providing definitions and examples to enhance understanding. It covers crucial elements such as location, patient details, and unit information that are vital in emergency response scenarios.