When we call to summon an ambulance, we want the EMT's and Paramedics to respond quickly. Each and every minute counts when medical emergencies exist, and every one seems to last for an hour. Time is of the essence, and a minute or two may determine life or death.
The emergency medical personnel who respond on the ambulance have a time goal that they try to meet, called the "Golden Hour". This means that ideally, no more than one hour should pass between the time of a medical emergency and the time that the patient is at the hospital and cleared for surgery or other definitive treatment. The ambulance crew strives to respond and assess, treat and transport.
If you need to call for an ambulance, there are some things that you can do to help the crew meet that ten minute goal, which helps to improve the patient's chances of survival:
Clear away furniture' or other items that may cause obstruction or delay of the ambulance crew when they enter with the stretcher. It might surprise you to know how much valuable time can be lost maneuvering the stretcher through the room while trying not to cause damage to walls and baseboards, etc.
If your house is not easily found and accessed, stand at the door and wave the ambulance down when you see it. If it is dark, turn on 'your outside lights to make it easier to view. Time can be lost looking for your address.
Keep a written record of the medical history and the prescriptions for everyone who lives with you. This saves Paramedics critical time if you can hand it to them. Otherwise, they are forced to question you or the patient. This pertinent information may make a difference in the treatment that they render on the scene or en-route to the ER.
It is natural for people to be frightened and excited during an emergency, and often the situation tends to be noisy and hectic. When possible, allow one person to inform the squad crew about the events, and try to keep everyone else calm. The noise and activity can be distracting to the EMT and Paramedic. In serious emergencies, Paramedics may need to concentrate on doses and types.
In the event that small children are present, it is best to try to keep them away from the scene of the emergency. They tend to be frightened, and they are not always easily calmed. In addition, they generally will cry and scream, which adds to the confusion and the distraction.
Hopefully, you will nol ever have to call for that ambulance. But if you do take steps to help the crew to help you and your loved ones.
Send mail to fredstilt@kco.com with questions or
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Copyright © 2002 The Kenton County Observer
Last modified: March 07, 2002