Chapter 1 + 2 Flashcards
Medical Director
A physician who assumes ultimate responsibility for the patient-care aspects of the EMS system.
Medical Direction
Oversight of the patient-care aspects of the EMS system by a Medical Director.
Off-Line Medical Direction
Standing orders issued by the Medical Director that allow EMTs to perform certain procedures (or administer certain medications) without speaking to the MD (or another physician).
On-Line Medical Direction
Orders from the on-duty physician (i.e. the Medical Director) given directly to the EMT in the field by radio or telephone.
Protocols
Lists of steps (such as assessments or interventions) to be taken in different situations.
Standing Orders
A policy or protocol issued by a Medical Director that authorizes EMTs (and other providers) to perform particular skills/tasks in certain situations.
Patient Outcomes
The long-term survival of patients.
Pathogens
Organisms (such as viruses and bacteria) that cause infection.
Bloodborne Pathogens
Pathogens that can be contracted by exposure to the patient’s blood (and sometimes other bodily fluids).
Airborne Pathogens
Pathogens spread by tiny droplets that are sprayed during breathing, coughing, or sneezing.
Standard Precautions
A strict form of infection control that is based on the assumption that all blood and bodily fluids are infectious.
Power Grip
Gripping with as much hand surface as possible in contact with the object being lifted. (All fingers are bent at the same angle and the hands are at least 10 inches apart.)
Emergency Move
Situations in which the patient must be moved to a safe place before the EMT has time to complete (or even begin) an assessment/procedure.
Urgent Move
Situations in which the EMT has enough time to carry out an abbreviated assessment/procedure before moving the patient.
Non-Urgent Move
Situations in which the EMT has enough time to complete on-site assessment and care procedures before moving the patient.
