Module 1 - Chapter 1 EMS System Flashcards
What is the primary function of an Emergency Medical Services (EMS) system?
The primary function of an EMS system is to provide emergency medical care and transport to individuals experiencing medical emergencies.
What are the components of an EMS system?
The key components of an EMS system include:
1. Dispatch – Receiving emergency calls and sending responders.
2. First Responders – Initial medical care at the scene.
3. Ambulance Service – Transporting patients to medical facilities.
4. Hospital Emergency Departments – Providing advanced care.
5. Medical Oversight – Ensuring quality and appropriate care.
What is the role of the dispatcher in the EMS system?
The dispatcher receives emergency calls, gathers information, prioritizes calls, and sends the appropriate EMS resources (ambulances, paramedics) to the scene.
What are the different levels of EMS providers?
The primary levels of EMS providers are:
1. EMT-Basic (EMT-B) – Provides basic life support (BLS).
2. EMT-Intermediate (EMT-I) – Provides limited advanced life support (ALS).
3. Paramedic (EMT-P) – Provides advanced life support, including medication and advanced airway management.
What does “BLS” and “ALS” stand for?
- BLS – Basic Life Support, which includes CPR, AED use, and basic airway management.
- ALS – Advanced Life Support, which includes advanced airway management, intravenous therapy, medication administration, and more complex procedures.
What are the common types of EMS vehicles?
A: Common EMS vehicles include:
Common EMS vehicles include:
1. Ambulances – For patient transport and emergency care.
2. Rapid Response Vehicles (RRVs) – For quick response, usually staffed with paramedics.
3. Air Ambulances (Helicopters or Fixed-Wing) – For rapid transport over long distances or difficult terrain.
What is the “Golden Hour” in EMS?
The “Golden Hour” refers to the critical first hour after a traumatic injury or medical emergency, during which prompt medical treatment greatly improves the chances of survival and reduces the risk of complications.
What does “triage” mean in EMS?
Triage is the process of prioritizing patients based on the severity of their condition. It ensures that the most critical patients receive immediate attention.
What is the role of the Emergency Department (ED) in the EMS system?
The Emergency Department provides immediate medical treatment to patients transported by EMS. It has specialized medical staff and equipment to treat a wide range of emergency conditions.
What is medical oversight in the EMS system?
Medical oversight ensures that EMS personnel provide appropriate care according to established protocols. It includes supervision by physicians and continuous training for EMS providers.
What is the “Chain of Survival”?
The Chain of Survival is a series of actions that can improve the chances of survival for someone experiencing a cardiac arrest or other medical emergency:
1. Early recognition and activation of EMS.
2. Early CPR.
3. Early defibrillation.
4. Early advanced care.
What is an “Incident Command System” (ICS) in EMS?
The ICS is a standardized approach to managing emergency incidents, ensuring coordination between various agencies and responders during large-scale emergencies or disasters.
What are some challenges faced by EMS systems?
Challenges include:
1. High call volume.
2. Response time delays.
3. Limited resources (e.g., ambulances, staff).
4. Coordination between multiple agencies.
5. Providing care in difficult or hazardous conditions.
What is “EMS data reporting” used for?
EMS data reporting helps track patient outcomes, response times, treatment effectiveness, and resource allocation to improve the overall efficiency and quality of EMS care.
What is the role of EMS in disaster response?
EMS plays a crucial role in disaster response by providing immediate medical care to victims, coordinating with other emergency services, and ensuring safe transport to medical facilities.
