Emergency Medical Services Overview

Review of Emergency Medical Services

• Brake Fluid: Do not open brake fluid reservoir unless fluid level is low. Brake fluid absorbs moisture from the atmosphere.

• Emergency Vehicle Parking at Night: Safe parking practices at night include NOT leaving headlights on.

• Paramedic Vehicle Operation: Paramedics should not operate an emergency vehicle while taking cold remedies or analgesics.

• Air Ambulances: Advantages of air ambulances do NOT include more experience of flight paramedics.

• Helicopter Use: Helicopters are generally NOT used for patients in cardiopulmonary arrest who have not responded to defibrillation.

• Ambulance Equipment Calibration: Cardiac monitors do not require calibration. Motor oil levels should be checked prior to starting the engine.

• Ambulance Maintenance: If the odor of sewer gas is detected, close the hood and take the ambulance out of service. Brake fade should prompt immediate removal of the ambulance from service. High performance EMS systems usually adhere to a fractile response time standard. A third service EMS system operates independently from local fire departments.

• Emergency Driving: "Due regard" means operating an ambulance while using lights and sirens does not exempt the driver from operating with concern for the safety of other road users. Decisions regarding the use of lights and sirens are made by the paramedic. Excessive use of lights and sirens when transporting a patient should not occur. Use good judgement. Avoid starting a grass fire when parking. If you lose sight of your spotter, stop the vehicle. Do not let a spotlight shine on incoming aircraft at night. Remain behind a vehicle that does not yield to you. Anticipate that the driver may slam on the brakes.

• Transportation: Advise passengers to drive at normal speeds. If a small truck is tailgating, keep your current speed and advise the dispatcher to contact the police. If an ambulance and fire truck arrive at a red light- the fire truck has the right-of-way, the ambulance should stop and wait for all directions to be clear before proceeding. Use a pediatric transport securing device for young children. Stay behind another vehicle and anticipate that the driver may slam on the brakes if they do not yield.

• Emergency Equipment: Use your personal protective equipment when interacting with patients, especially chemical spills.