Chapter 1

1. Chapter 1 Introduction to Emergency Medical Care

2. Lay Rescuer First Responder EMT-B EMT-Intermediate EMT-Paramedic Levels of Training

3. LINKS IN THE CHAIN OF SURVIVAL • Citizen Responder • EMS Dispatcher • First Responder • Emergency Medical Technician • Hospital Care Providers • Rehabilitation Providers

4. ROLE OF THE CITIZEN RESPONDER • Recognize an emergency exists. • Decide to act. • Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number. • Provide care until help arrives.

5. BARRIERS TO ACTION • Presence of bystanders • Uncertainty about victim • Nature of injury or illness • Fear of disease transmission • Fear of not knowing what to do • Fear of doing something wrong

6. Components of the EMS System • Access • Easy access in an emergency is essential. • Equipment • Properly maintained equipment is essential.

7. Components of the EMS System • Training • Quality of care depends on your training and your dedication to that training.

8. Providing a Coordinated Continuum of Care • 1st Phase—out of hospital care • 2nd Phase—emergency department care • 3rd Phase—definitive care

9. Roles and Responsibilities of the First Responder (1 of 2) • Personal safety • Safety of crew, patient, and bystanders • Patient assessment • Patient care based on assessment findings

10. Roles and Responsibilities of the First Responder (2 of 2) • Lifting and moving patients safely • Record keeping/data collection • Patient advocacy

11. Professional Attributes of an Emergency Responder • Puts patient’s needs as a priority without endangering self • Maintains professional appearance and manner • Performs under pressure • Treats patients and families with understanding, respect and compassion • Respects patient confidentiality

12. Continuing Education • Maintain knowledge and skills • CPR recertifies every year. • First Aid recertifies every 3 years. • You should practice and review your skills.