DB 17-09 Patient Transport-Best Practices

Question 1

Best practices for patient transport should be developed that AVOID placing the ATTENDANT ALONE with patients who may create accusations of inappropriate behavior during transport, whether actual or perceived.

Having a CREDIBLE witness accompany the patient in the back of the ambulance IMPROVES situational ACCOUNTABILITY during transport. At a minimum, they should display prudent behavior with a clear mindset.

Typically, this role is filled by:

Answer 1

• Relatives

• Recognized friend or coworker

• Anyone already vested in the patient’s well-being, i.e. caretaker, therapist, etc.

Question 2

If a witness deemed credible is not readily available or being allowed by the patient, members should consider involving:

Answer 2

• Law enforcement – preferably of the patient’s same gender

• Additional LAFD member

Question 3

HIPAA laws do not forbid a patient’s family member, friend, caregiver, or other involved party from accompanying a patient IF they are in the ______ (front or back?) seat of an ambulance.

Answer 3

-Front

(Permission for the witness to ride in the back should be obtained from the patient.)

Question 4

Transport of a mentally unstable patient:

_______ updates will time stamp transport durations. The ______ will capture the mileage.

Answer 4

-MDC

-ePCR for mileage

(Verbal updates to Metro Fire Communications will duplicate this documentation but are NOT required.)

Question 5

If any allegations of criminal or sexual misconduct should occur they must be immediately reported to?

Answer 5

The member’s Station and Battalion Commanders.

(Any BATTALION COMMANDER notified of such allegations SHALL REQUEST LAPD ASSISTANCE (consider City Attorney) for an immediate investigation.)

Question 6

Determining a person’s credibility as a potential witness will rely on __________.

Answer 6

personal judgment.