Prehospital emergency care : official journal of the National Association of EMS Physicians and the National Association of State EMS Directors
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The need for valid and reliable emergency medical services (EMS) data has long been recognized. EMS data are useful for monitoring resources and operations, documenting patient care and outcome, and evaluating injury prevention strategies. The goal of this project was to develop a computerized data set with the capability to generate a patient care record (PCR) to overcome some of the current EMS data limitations. ⋯ This computerized approach overcomes many limitations inherent with using paper-based systems for research. Linked with emergency department, hospital discharge, and mortality data, EMS data can be used in systems analyses related to patient outcome.
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One of the highest priorities for prehospital emergency personnel is airway management. Several rescuer positions for intubation on the ground have been published. ⋯ Using four case reports, situations in which inverse intubation may be an important tool for successful airway management are discussed. Other uses of the method are listed.
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To determine whether paramedics can safely use a spinal clearance algorithm to reduce unnecessary spinal immobilization (SI) in the out-of-hospital setting. ⋯ An out-of-hospital spinal clearance algorithm administered by paramedics can reduce SI by one-third. Any application of a spinal clearance algorithm should be accompanied by rigorous medical supervision.
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The authors have successfully implemented automated external defibrillation (AED) training in police departments that function as first responders. The initial elements are to think the project through, and to develop clear policies and procedures for the police as they relate to dispatching so there is timeliness of notification, because response time is such a critical element. ⋯ A system to evaluate training, compliance with protocol, and efficacy must be developed and closely monitored. While this is a tremendous amount of work and a large time investment, the result can be a dramatic increase in patient survival.