Chapter 1 Introduction to Emergency Medical Care

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

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

1: Introduction to Emergency Medical Care 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.

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1: Introduction to Emergency Medical Care 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 5

1: Introduction to Emergency Medical Care Components of the EMS System • Access • Easy access in an emergency is essential.

• Equipment • Properly maintained equipment is essential.

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

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

1: Introduction to Emergency Medical Care 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 9

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

1: Introduction to Emergency Medical Care 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 11

1: Introduction to Emergency Medical Care Continuing Education • Maintain knowledge and skills • CPR recertifies every year.

• First Aid recertifies every 3 years.

• You should practice and review your skills.

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