Emergency Medical Technician Overview

Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)

• EMTs are healthcare professionals trained to provide basic life support (BLS) and some advanced life support (ALS) to critically ill or injured patients.
• Their role is crucial in the pre-hospital setting, often serving as the first responders at the scene of an emergency.
• EMTs typically work in ambulances, responding to a variety of calls, from minor injuries to serious trauma cases.
• Training programs vary by location and scope of practice, but generally involve coursework and practical skills training.

Human Body - Key Systems Relevant to EMTs

• Cardiovascular System:

  • Comprised of the heart, blood vessels, and blood.
  • EMTs need to understand the heart's function, blood flow, and how to recognize signs of cardiac distress (e.g., chest pain, shortness of breath, irregular heart rate).
  • Critical knowledge includes the different types of shock and how they affect the body.
  • Assessing pulse, blood pressure, and breathing are fundamental skills.

• Respiratory System:

  • Includes the lungs and airways, responsible for oxygenation and carbon dioxide exchange.
  • Vital signs, such as respiratory rate and depth, are paramount in assessing patient conditions.
  • EMTs must recognize signs of breathing difficulties, such as labored breathing, wheezing, and cyanosis.
  • Knowledge of airway management and ventilation techniques is important, including assisting with oxygen administration (e.g., non-rebreather mask).

• Nervous System:

  • EMTs need to be aware of neurological function and how injuries or illnesses can affect it.
  • Neurological assessments are essential to determine level of consciousness, responsiveness, and potential for neurological damage.
  • Understanding and recognizing signs of a stroke or head injuries is crucial.

• Musculoskeletal System:

  • EMTs must recognize the symptoms and signs of musculoskeletal injuries, such as fractures and dislocations.
  • EMTs should be aware of the risk of spinal injuries.
  • Performing immobilization techniques is often necessary, depending on the nature of the injury.

• Integumentary System:

  • Skin and associated tissues.
  • Skin appearance can provide valuable clues about the patient's condition (e.g., trauma, shock, infection).

• Gastrointestinal System:

  • The processes of digestion.
  • Awareness of potential gastrointestinal issues that can be life-threatening is important in certain cases.

EMT Assessment Techniques & Procedures

• Primary Assessment: A rapid, initial assessment of a patient's condition, focusing on the presence or absence of life-threatening emergencies, including airway, breathing, and circulation.
• Secondary Assessment: A more thorough assessment performed after the initial primary assessment that involves the examination of vital signs, detailed history, and additional physical findings.
• Patient history: The information gathered from the patient (or a witness) about the incident or condition.
• Vital signs: Measurements of the patient's condition (e.g., pulse, blood pressure, respiratory rate, temperature).
• Patient care: This varies, depending on the call and patient. Some examples include managing and stabilizing the patient (e.g., splinting a broken limb), providing basic life support, or transporting to the appropriate hospital facility.
• Documentation: Thorough and accurate documentation of the entire incident is critical, including patient information, assessment findings, interventions, and vital signs. Maintaining detailed records allows for follow-up and further care.

Common Scenarios and Interventions

• Cardiac Arrest: Prompt recognition and initiation of CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) is important.
• Stroke: Rapid recognition and treatment can improve patient outcomes.
• Trauma Incidents: Scene safety is essential. Stabilization and transportation of injured patients to appropriate healthcare facilities are crucial steps.
• Respiratory Emergencies: Assessment and management of breathing problems.

Advanced Life Support (ALS)

• Some EMTs are trained to administer advanced life support medications and techniques. Advanced training differs from basic EMT training.
• This may involve the use of advanced airway management devices (e.g., supraglottic airway).
• Appropriate use of medications (e.g., IVs, medication administration) is crucial, depending on the specific training.

Ethical Considerations

• EMTs must recognize and comply with their legal and ethical responsibilities, which include confidentiality, informed consent, and refusal of care in certain circumstances if the patient chooses not to receive care.
• Maintaining professionalism and respect during all interactions with patients is essential.

Safety for EMTs

• Scene safety is paramount. Knowledge of scene safety procedures and appropriate equipment is essential. Awareness of potential hazards and appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) usage.