Difficulty: Moderately Challenging
Step1
Collect as much data as possible from the initial phone call to the dispatcher. It is important to know the extent of the problem.
Step2
Prepare yourself mentally and emotionally for what you are about to encounter. Just when you think you have seen it all you will be called to assess a new situation you could never have imagined.
Step3
Create an environment of organized knowledge to onlookers. Control the situation immediately. It is important that assessment begin with general questions and then work into the more specific.
Step4
Assess the scene or environment as soon as you arrive. Part of the patient care will be comfort and stabilization. Determine what you will need to provide comfort to the patient and secure the scene.
Step5
Decide if other Emergency Services need to be called. Make an assessment of downed electric lines, hazardous waste materials, fire, broken glass and jagged metal. Call for help if needed.
Step6
Isolate your work area so that any criminal evidence from the accident scene is preserved. Never enter a scene where you feel unsafe.
Step7
Determine the number of patients who need treatment. Tag each patient so the urgency of care is visible and evacuate patients as soon as possible.