by DougMSNRN
EMS is our partner in crime so to speak. They bring us the good, bad and the ugly. The care that EMS starts is the care that we continue. What they do on the street directly affects what we do. I’ve been an IL-licensed pre-hospital RN for almost 10 years now on a rural EMS squad. I’m also an advanced practice nurse in a community ER. Along the way, I’ve worked in a level one truama center for 10 years too. I give you these qualifications only to reinforce this as firsthand knowledge. We (in the field) need to:
1. Provide the ER with as much info as possible BEFORE we roll thru the door. Some things that we might not always think about: is the pt >500 lbs? Is the scene a suspected crime scene? Is the pt on dialysis? Allergies? Is the pt compliant if they are chronically ill?
2. Give a very concise and to the point report, emphasizing the main complaint (the reason 911 was activated) and then add info as it is pertinent. A list of current meds and allergies is important.
3. Be polite yet assertive. It is important for the ER RN to be aware of things such as violence at the scene, reason for prolonged on-scene time, and inability to get an IV or airway.
And, we as the receiving facility need to help continue this care:
1. Listen to the EMS report. Keep the trauma bay and/or room as quiet as possible when the EMT is giving report. Wait until they are finished and then ask questions.
2. Ensure that you have received all the written info that the EMTs have including a list of meds and/or allergies. Also, if it is an accident scene, take a look at the photos if the EMTs have them – this will give you valuable info about the mechanism.
3. Be especially vigilant if the EMTs report that there was violence at the scene as it often follows the patient to the hospital.