EMS Systems
What is the role of a Medical Director in an EMS system?
Provide medical oversight and establish protocols
What is the most important rule when lifting a patient?
Lift with your legs, not your back
What is implied consent?
Consent assumed when patient is unresponsive or unable to provide it but needs emergency care
What is the function of red blood cells?
Carry oxygen to body tissues
What is the action of aspirin?
Anti-inflammatory, reduces blood clotting
List three levels of EMS training.
Emergency Medical Responder (EMR), Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), Paramedic
Define proper use of body mechanics.
Feet shoulder-width apart, bend knees, straight back, use core muscles
When can a patient legally refuse care?
When the patient is alert, oriented, understands risks, and has capacity to make decisions
Describe the difference between arteries and veins.
Arteries carry blood away from the heart (oxygenated), veins return blood (deoxygenated)
What does the “Five Rights” of medication refer to?
Right patient, medication, dose, route, time
Describe how the public accesses EMS services.
911 systems, public safety access points, cellphones, enhanced 911 (E-911)
Name two ways to prevent injury when lifting.
Use team lifts, pre-plan moves, communicate clearly
What should you do if a competent adult refuses care?
Inform of risks, confirm capacity, document refusal, have them sign refusal form
Define "perfusion."
Adequate circulation of blood and oxygen to tissues
When should naloxone be used?
Suspected opioid overdose with respiratory depression
Diagram or explain the EMS "chain of human resources."
Bystander → Dispatcher → First Responder → EMT → ER Nurse/Physician
What are two examples of improper lifting technique?
Twisting while lifting, bending at the waist
Describe how POLST or DNR orders affect treatment.
Follow POLST/DNR as long as valid, confirm identity, contact medical control if unsure
What happens during poor ventilation in the lungs?
Poor gas exchange → low oxygen, high CO2 → hypoxia, respiratory failure
Name the generic and trade name of one EMS-carried medication.
Aspirin = generic | Bayer = trade
Oral glucose = generic | Glutose = trade
Name and describe one major component of an EMS communication system.
911 dispatch, radio communication, telemetry, GPS tracking
Given a scenario, identify the safest way to move the patient.
Depends on situation: stair chair for stairs, long spine board for trauma, draw sheet for beds
Name three types of patient consent and explain them.
Expressed: spoken or written
Implied: unresponsive but would likely consent
Informed: after being told risks/benefits
Involuntary: police or court-mandated care
Name and locate three major organs in the abdominal cavity.
Stomach (LUQ), Liver (RUQ), Spleen (LUQ), Kidneys (flank), Intestines (across all)
What is the difference between side effect and untoward effect?
Side effect = expected but not desired
Untoward effect = unexpected and harmful