In addition to the readings, please read Chapter One of the EMD textbook from the IAED (found on the class materials page). Starting on Page 1.11, the text discusses several misconceptions of EMD. Reflect upon one and discuss how management of that misconception might change in the future with new technology that is available now or is likely to be available within the next five to ten years. Don’t forget to reference your other sources.
Contents
The International Standard . . . . . 1.2
Impact on Quality Patient
Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.3
Impact on the EMD . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.3
Impact on Prehospital
Providers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.6
Impact on Equipment. . . . . . . . . . 1.8
Impact on the Community
at Large . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.8
Profile of EMD Duties . . . . . . . . . . 1.9
Misconceptions and the
Facts about EMD. . . . . . . . . . . 1.10
Medical Control and the EMD . . 1.20
The Spock Principle . . . . . . . . . . 1.21
Traditional Roadblocks
to Change . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.21
The EMD as a Medical
Professional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.22
Summary: A New Era in EMS . . 1.25
CHAPTER
The First, First Responder
Chapter Overview
This chapter lays the groundwork for understanding the complex role of the
Emergency Medical Dispatcher (EMD) as the “first, first responder.” EMDs have
the potential to make the difference, literally, between life and death, through
proper application of the principles described in this book. The EMD’s specialized
skills and equipment can minimize the risks faced by field personnel and enhance
the quality of patient care.
This chapter describes the many purposes of Emergency Medical Dispatch. It
includes the broader historical and anecdotal perspective and research collected
since this book’s first edition. It also summarizes the reasons the EMD system has
become the national standard for Emergency Medical Dispatchers.
Emergency Medical Dispatch is the jewel upon which the
watch movement of public safety turns.