JEMS : a journal of emergency medical services
-
No matter how well we plan and train, every MCI is an exercise in gaining control over chaos. Emotions can sometimes get in the way. An MCI with pediatric victims is an additional emotional challenge that must be met by using objective tools so we can avoid needless mistakes in medical judgment. JumpSTART, used in conjunction with an adult triage tool such as START, can help to ensure that we not only meet the needs of all our MCI victims, but also address our own needs to provide the very best care for the children we encounter.
-
A focused approach to the patient with abdominal pain includes a working knowledge of relevant anatomy, a basic understanding of physiology and the ability to take a careful history. Creating a differential diagnosis, resuscitating patients in shock and appropriately treating a patient's pain will allow EMS crews to greatly impact patient care.
-
With evidence that esophageal intubations happen frequently in EMS and of the possible resulting catastrophic effects, an EMS system should carefully consider the way it handles this problem. With the introduction of better ways to determine placement, a willingness to investigate thoroughly and the ET Rules of Engagement, UEI rates can be consistently low.