Chapter 1 Introduction to Emergency Medical Care

1: Introduction to Emergency Medical Care 2 Levels of Training Lay Rescuer First Responder EMT-B EMT-Intermediate EMT-Paramedic

1: Introduction to Emergency Medical Care 3 LINKS IN THE CHAIN OF SURVIVAL Citizen Responder EMS Dispatcher First Responder Emergency Medical Technician Hospital Care Providers Rehabilitation Providers

1: Introduction to Emergency Medical Care 4 ROLE OF THE CITIZEN RESPONDER Recognize an emergency exists. Decide to act. Call or the local emergency number. Provide care until help arrives.

1: Introduction to Emergency Medical Care 5 BARRIERS TO ACTION Presence of bystanders Uncertainty about victim Nature of injury or illness Fear of disease transmission Fear of not knowing what to do Fear of doing something wrong

1: Introduction to Emergency Medical Care 6 Components of the EMS System Access Easy access in an emergency is essential. Equipment Properly maintained equipment is essential.

1: Introduction to Emergency Medical Care 7 Components of the EMS System Training Quality of care depends on your training and your dedication to that training.

1: Introduction to Emergency Medical Care 8 Providing a Coordinated Continuum of Care 1st Phase—out of hospital care 2nd Phase—emergency department care 3rd Phase—definitive care

1: Introduction to Emergency Medical Care 9 Roles and Responsibilities of the First Responder (1 of 2) Personal safety Safety of crew, patient, and bystanders Patient assessment Patient care based on assessment findings

1: Introduction to Emergency Medical Care 10 Roles and Responsibilities of the First Responder (2 of 2) Lifting and moving patients safely Record keeping/data collection Patient advocacy

1: Introduction to Emergency Medical Care 11 Professional Attributes of an Emergency Responder Puts patient’s needs as a priority without endangering self Maintains professional appearance and manner Performs under pressure Treats patients and families with understanding, respect and compassion Respects patient confidentiality

1: Introduction to Emergency Medical Care 12 Continuing Education Maintain knowledge and skills CPR recertifies every year. First Aid recertifies every 3 years. You should practice and review your skills.