1. Chapter 1 Introduction to Emergency Medical Care

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

3. 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

4. 1: Introduction to Emergency Medical Care 4 ROLE OF THE CITIZEN RESPONDER Recognize an emergency exists. Decide to act. Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number. Provide care until help arrives.

5. 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

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. 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

9. 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

10. 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

11. 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

12. 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.