Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) occasionally respond to calls involving poisoning. Here are some of the things EMTs may do to handle a poisoning call.
Initial Assessment
Scene safety is always priority number 1. They look for clues about the type of poison, the amount ingested, and the time of exposure.
Stabilization
Like every other patient, managing the airway is “king.” Everything else EMTs do is dependent on the patient having a patent airway.
Airway Management involves: Ensuring the patient’s airway is clear. If the patient is unconscious or having difficulty breathing, EMTs may use various airway adjuncts to provide ventilatory support.
Breathing and Circulation: Monitoring and supporting breathing and circulation. When appropriate, EMTs may administer oxygen as well.
Decontamination
Depending on the situation, decontamination may be needed . How this is done and who does it can vary. For instance, in a larger Hazmat situation, the Hazmat team will handle the decontamination process. For smaller incidents EMTs may participate in the process as well but there are many factors that have to be taken into consideration. Not all incidents will be safe enough for EMTs to be the ones doing the decontamination. For more common calls like ingested poisons EMTs may contact the hospital and receive instructions on how/what to do for the patient during transport to the hospital..
Medication Administration
EMTs are often trained to administer specific medications under very specific circumstances and this can vary from EMS system to EMS system. For example, in some areas EMTs may carry naloxone (Narcan) and depending on their local protocols, they may have authorization to administer it in cases of opioid overdose. Naloxone can reverse the effects of the opioid overdose in many cases.
Ongoing Monitoring
Continuous monitoring of the patient’s vital signs is essential. EMTs monitor the patient for changes in the patient’s condition and are prepared to provide additional interventions as needed.
Communication with Medical Control
EMTs stay in constant communication with medical control (usually a physician or hospital-based medical team). They relay vital information and receive instructions on specific treatments or interventions to perform en route to the hospital.
Transport to a Medical Facility
Poisoned patients are transported to the nearest appropriate medical facility for further evaluation and treatment. EMTs will provide a detailed report to the receiving medical team, ensuring a smooth transition of care.
Handling poisoned patients can be challenging. Sometimes it's hard to even know for sure a poisoning has taken place. By being alert for clues and following their training, EMTs can manage these situations effectively.
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