Lifting and moving a patient-loaded stretcher might feel routine for the crew, but it is a novel experience for the patient. Lifting the stretcher into the ambulance should be treated as a high-risk moment for the patient and the crew. Watch this stretcher drop video and then use the Reality Training discussion questions on EMS1 […]
Tag: Patient Care
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Uber and Ambulances
Two economists conclude that Uber availability has reduced EMS ambulance transport by 7 percent in major U.S. cities. Really? I have been writing about Uber and ambulances for a couple of years and I am always a proponent of patients receiving the right care (which includes transport as a treatment) at the right time. Read […]
In late April I will be co-presenting “Distraction is Deadly: driving, patient care, and education” At the 3rd Annual Minnesota Ambulance Association Teaching and Learning Conference. As you can see from this session announcement I will be realizing a career long dream of co-presenting with a gray squirrel. This squirrel, one of many that lurks […]
Last week I asked, “What do you use to write your patient assessment and care notes.” Predictably, several readers answered, “Gloves!” Here are reasons not to write on your gloves. 1. Gloves are BSI. Gloves should only be used for what they do best – protecting you from the patient and protecting the patient from […]
Margaret, 15 months old, stood up underneath the kitchen table. After smashing her head against the wood, she crumpled into a sobbing heap. Then she began her frantic search for mommy. In less than a minute Margaret’s mom had consoled her and she was resuming normal play. // Read the full Everyday EMS Tip at […]
Carrying a specific set of items has become part of my paramedic routine. Steve Whitehead had a great post sampling readers about what they carry in their pockets while on-duty. Everyday EMS Tips contributor, Chris Matthews, will be the first to admit he adds a lot of things to the on-board equipment that many of […]
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Look Your TV Best at Every Incident
NBC is scheduling an EMS drama for Fall 2009. I have often been told to assess and treat patients as if I was being filmed for the evening news. Watch this clip from NBC about the new show and then read Everyday EMS Tips for looking your “TV best” while on scene.
The National Stroke Awareness Month promotes the F.A.S.T. Stroke assessment for lay persons to determine if stroke signs are present. F = FACE Ask person to smile. Look for one-sided facial droop. A = ARMS Ask person to raise their arms. Look to see if one arm drifts downward. S = SPEECH Ask person to […]
On April 20, 2009 the CDC published Interim Guidance on Infection Control and Antiviral Recommendations for Patients with Confirmed or Suspected Swine Influenza A Virus Infection. The guidelines are written for public health and hospital personnel. There is no specific mention of EMT or Paramedic field contact with patients with suspected or known respiratory illness […]
Virginia has reported a recent cases of the measles. The measles is a severe viral illness with these signs and symptoms during its first stage: fever runny nose redness of the eye(s) cough During the second stage a red blotchy rash appears first on the face and then spreads throughout the body. If you suspect […]