The Dispatch phase

Question 1

What is the primary function of dispatch in emergency services?

Answer 1

To be easy to access and in service 24 hours a day

Dispatch ensures that emergency services are always available to respond to calls.

Question 2

Who may operate the dispatch center?

Answer 2

Local EMS or a shared service covering law enforcement and the fire department

This allows for coordinated emergency response among different agencies.

Question 3

What are the possible jurisdictions served by a dispatch center?

Answer 3

• A single city or town
• An area or regional center serving several communities
• An entire county

The jurisdiction can vary based on the size and needs of the area.

Question 4

What is essential for dispatch personnel to be familiar with?

Answer 4

• The agencies they are dispatching
• The geography of the service area

Familiarity with these aspects is crucial for effective emergency response.

Question 5

What minimum information should a dispatcher gather for every emergency request?

Answer 5

• The nature of the call
• The name, current location, and call-back telephone number of the caller
• The location of the patient or patients
• The number of patients and severity of their conditions
• Any other special problems or pertinent information

This information helps in assessing the emergency and coordinating an appropriate response.

Question 6

What does emergency medical dispatching provide to callers?

Answer 6

Prearrival instructions for patient care before the ambulance arrives

This can be critical in stabilizing patients prior to professional care.

Question 7

What do emergency medical dispatchers use to determine the information given to callers?

Answer 7

A set of guidelines

These guidelines help ensure that the information provided is appropriate and effective.

Question 8

What basic care might dispatchers guide callers through?

Answer 8

• Bleeding control
• Initiating CPR

These instructions can save lives while waiting for emergency services.