What do EMTs and Paramedics do?
- There are many shows out there that depict what EMS professionals do on a regular basis. Most calls do not have the dramatic and jaw-dropping rescues with multiple lives saved. Many times we never know exactly what to expect until we arrive on scene. What seems and sounds like a routine call, can actually be a life-threatening situation, so we must be ready with the skills and equipment necessary to treat all types of injuries and illnesses.
What is the difference between an EMT and Paramedic?
- EMTs or Emergency Medical Technicians provide Basic Life Support (BLS) to patients in need. This includes CPR, assistance with breathing, removing airway obstructions, treating injuries and other wide range of basic emergency issues.
- Paramedics provide Advanced Life Support (ALS) in patients in need. Along with BLS skills, they are trained in starting IVs, give medications, obtain ECGs to detect cardiac problems, intubate patients and treat a wide range of advanced emergency issues. In order to be a paramedic, they must first be an EMT with experience. They will then enroll in a paramedic program which takes about 18-24 months to complete.
When I need an ambulance, can I call Le Roy Ambulance directly to save time?
- Call 911 for all medical emergencies. This is the fastest way to request an ambulance. The 911 Dispatchers will not only dispatch an ambulance, they will offer emergency medical instructions while help is en route to your location.
What information should I have ready for the ambulance crew? What should I bring to the hospital?
- After you have called 911, there are several things you can do until Emergency Responders arrive. These simple procedures will greatly assist the Emergency Responders and the patient.
- Do not endanger your own life as the citizen responder or worsen the patient’s condition by providing care beyond your limitations.
- Do not move the patient unless it is absolutely necessary, i.e., fire, explosion, or gas leaks.
- If you determine the patient is pulse less and non-breathing, begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), but only if you have been trained in this life saving technique.
- Stay calm and try not to get overly excited. Always consider the patient’s emotional, as well as physical needs. Reassure the patient that help is on the way.
- Gather all medications that the patient may be taking along with emergency medical cards. This will help emergency responders better determine the medical history of the patient.
- If possible, send someone to meet emergency responders to show him or her the location of the patient.
- Move all furniture or obstacles out of the way so emergency responders have easy access to the patient.
- Keep track of times, such as when was the last time you talked to the patient, how long has this medical condition existed, and how long has the person been unconscious.
- Give emergency responders a good description of the accident scene or medical condition of the patient at your time of arrival.
- Never leave the scene after the incident without identifying yourself to the emergency responders.
- To assist our crews, have a list of the patient’s medical problems, medications, and allergies available.
- Make sure animals are secure to not distract the ambulance crew. In times of emergency, the animal may be distressed and act differently or attack when noticing a family member whom is in distress.
- If a family member is present, or if you are safely able to do so, gather your house keys, shoes, phone, and in cold weather, a jacket to bring with you.
