Chapter 6: Prehospital Care
Overview
John just graduated high school and is currently exploring career options. He has always been drawn to medical trauma television series and thinks being a paramedic would be an interesting career. As you read through this chapter, consider whether you would like to assist people during moments of trauma, such as car accidents or medical emergencies. If medical trauma is something you are passionate about, this career could be the right fit for you.
Prehospital emergency medicine involves care provided before patients arrive at a hospital or clinic. Emergency medical technicians (EMTs), advanced emergency medical technicianss (AEMTs), and paramedics are three key careers in prehospital medicine. These roles are interrelated and professionals in each often collaborate to deliver emergency care. However, their training, qualifications, and responsibilities differ slightly. These professionals may work in various settings, which are discussed in this chapter. Students can pursue a certificate, associate degree, or a bachelor’s degree in emergency medicine to become a paramedic.
Objectives
Upon completion of this chapter, the learner will be able to:
- Identify the components of the prehospital medical system
- Explain the training required for different levels of prehospital care
- Identify the scope of practice for various prehospital care providers
- Recognize the legal and legislative foundations of prehospital care
- Identify different modes of transportation for the sick or injured, including ambulances, helicopters, fixed-wing aircraft, and boats
- Describe the role of medical direction in prehospital EMS systems
Key Terms
- Advanced emergency medical technician (AEMT)
- Air medical service
- Ambulance
- Automated external defibrillator (AED)
- Emergency medical dispatcher (EMD)
- Emergency medical system (EMS)
- Emergency medical technician (EMT)
- EMS medical director
- Medical first responder
- Mobile integrated healthcare network
- Narcan (Naloxone)
- Paramedic
- Public service access point
- Trauma center
- Trauma system
Attributions
- Chapter opening image: Alaska Coast Guard Medical Evacuation by US Coast Guard in the Public Domain
Abbreviated as AEMT. A healthcare professional who provides basic and limited advanced emergency medical care and transportation for critical and emergent patients.
