EMS Disaster Response Level

Section 1 - ADMINISTRATIVE POLICIES

1.15 EMS SATURATION DISASTER RESPONSE LEVELS

There will be times when the demand for Emergency Medical Services (EMS) taxes or exceeds the capacity of the EMS system thereby, creating a disaster. The Maitland Fire Rescue EMS system (MFRD) is determined to have reserves available to handle the next emergency and has developed this plan and it’s concepts to define different levels of disaster status.

The following is a simplified view of EMS disaster status and also some specific concepts and actions to take when certain levels of disaster are reached within the MFRD system.

This plan is intended to be an outline of conditions that define EMS disaster response levels and help provide a template for actions to be taken by SCEMS to expedite units back into service. These are subject to change at any given time. The overall most important concept is that this is not a license to "drop off" a patient at a hospital. With each patient we must identify when the patient requires active monitoring by a medical professional.

Non-Transport Criteria

• Minor extremity injuries with no deformities or loss of neurological/vascular function. Educate patient that “delayed treatment” is an acceptable practice, even if a fracture exists.
• Minor lacerations or abrasions with bleeding stopped with good distal function – educate patient on “delayed closure” is an accepted medical practice. NOTE: If the patient has a deep wound, inquire when they had their last tetanus shot and advise them to follow-up with a physician once adverse weather conditions have ended.
• Earache
• Typical headache for patient not in severe pain
• Back pain – typical patient not in severe pain
• Sore throat (that can swallow), have patient drink/swallow water
• Baker-acted patients without any injuries

Treat and Release

In the event we have patients requiring a breathing treatment or treatment for hypoglycemia and the patient feels better, and does not want to go to the hospital; it is appropriate to leave the patient with family or another caregiver. It is imperative that you perform a thorough evaluation and use good judgment before leaving any patient. In the event that you do transport a patient to the hospital and the ED is busy, please be patient and cordial with the ED staff. If we are in “Emergency Condition”, notify the charge nurse, and follow our standing procedures. Remember, teamwork, common sense, and good judgment goes a long way!