Ambulance Operations Flashcards
Advantages of using an air ambulance (4)
- specialized skills or equipment is needed
- rapid transport is possible
- can provide access to remote areas
- helipads available at hospital for helicopters
Disadvantages of using an air ambulance (8)
- weather/environment
- availability of safe landing site
- altitude limitations
- airspeed limitations
- aircraft cabin size
- terrain
- cost
- patient’s safety
How big should the landing zone be for a helicopter?
30 x 30m
What are the requirements of a safe landing zone?
- 30 x 30m
- firm and level ground
- no loose objects or debris (including clothing, IV poles)
- remove all unnecessary vehicles and people from the landing site
- one visible light at each corner of the landing site
- turn off headlights
How should you approach a helicopter?
always approach a helicopter from the front or side, allowing the pilot to keep you in view at all times.
Where should you park your ambulance at a highway incident if you are the first to arrive?
Park at least 30m from the accident, upwind and uphill.
If there are no liquids or fire, park 15m from the accident and park between the scene and the approaching traffic.
Where should you park your ambulance at a highway incident if you are NOT the first to arrive?
Park beyond the accident to prevent your ambulance from being exposed to traffic.
How should you approach a helicopter that has landed?
- wait for approval from the pilot.
- make sure all loose objects are secured, such as pillows and linens on your stretcher.
- allow the flight crew to direct the loading of the patient.
- approach in a crouched down position.
- if the helicopter is parked on a slight incline, approach it from the downhill side.
- keep all traffic and vehicles 30m or more away from the helicopter.
- do not allow anyone to smoke within 100m of the aircraft.
If you are responding to a potentially hazardous materials incident, where should you park your ambulance?
approach and position yourself uphill and upwind from the scene.
