How You Can Assist Emergency Medical Services

Welcome to this edition of the First Aid Show. Today, we’ll discuss how bystanders can effectively assist Emergency Medical Services (EMS) when they arrive at the scene of an incident.

Understanding Your Role in Assisting EMS

When EMS personnel arrive, they may need immediate assistance to enhance the efficiency of their response, especially if only one paramedic arrives initially. Understanding what you might be asked to do can save valuable time and aid in the patient’s treatment.

Gathering Crucial Information

• Medications and Prescriptions: Locate the patient’s medication or prescription notes. These are often found in bedroom drawers or kitchen cabinets. Having these ready helps paramedics quickly understand the patient’s medical history.
• Important Personal Details: Provide information like NHS numbers, dates of birth, and the patient’s GP details to expedite treatment.

Providing Physical Assistance

• Continuing Care: Be ready to continue chest compressions or assist with other first aid measures while paramedics set up equipment.
• Securing the Area: Make sure pets and emotional relatives are safely out of the way so they don’t interfere with EMS care.

Additional Support Tasks

• Emotional Support for Family Members: Comfort distressed relatives, allowing EMS to focus on the patient.
• Documenting the Incident: Take notes about the patient’s condition or incident timeline. Record or photograph the scene using a smartphone to provide critical evidence and information for medical providers.

Conclusion: Enhancing Emergency Response

By understanding how you might be asked to assist EMS, you can prepare to act swiftly and effectively, potentially improving outcomes for the patient. Remember, your actions, no matter how small they seem, can significantly impact emergencies.