1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Chapter 14: Communications Introduction Knowledge of plays an important role in your paramedic training. All aspects of prehospital care require effective, efficient communications. Communication is the key link in the chain that results in the best possible patient outcome. Communication The process of information between individuals Basic Communication Model Sender has an idea, or Sender message. Sender sends message. Receiver message. Receiver message. Receiver gives to sender. Communications in EMS Good communications skills is essential We must be able to communicate with: Bystanders, family members Other EMS and rescue personnel Medical Facility and other healthcare personnel In person Via Factors Affecting Verbal Communications : relating to the meaning of words : related to communication hardware Radios Frequencies A radio system is a critical component of an EMS system Radio Terminology Radio Band a range of radio Radio Frequencies the number of times per minute a radio wave Very High Frequency (VHF) radio frequency band from to megahertz (MHz) Ultrahigh Frequency (UHF) radio frequency band from to megahertz (MHz) Digital analog signal is digitized and using formats such as mp2 Bands and Frequencies (ultra high frequency): penetrate concrete and steel and are less susceptible to interference 1
10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 (very high frequency): will not penetrate steel and concrete and is prone for skips Low Band frequency: waves travel farther and better over varied terrain Repeater Systems Repeaters receive the transmission on one frequency and then boosts the power and retransmits (repeats) the transmission on a second frequency Greatly the range of radio equipment Example of an EMS System Using Repeaters Your communication must consist of reliable equipment designed to afford clear communication among all agencies within the system. Written Communication An important aspect of EMS communications. A prehospital care report ( ) is a written record of an EMS response. PCR is a legal document, admissible in The EMS Response (1 of 2) Detection and access Call-taking & emergency response instructions Call coordination and incident The EMS Response (2 of 2) Discussion with medical direction communications Back in service, ready for next call Detection & Citizen Response Call-taking & Emergency Response Pre-arrival Instructions Call Coordination & Incident Recording Discussion with Medical Direction Physician Communication Technology EMS systems use all of today s various communication technologies. These include forms of radio communication as well as innovations in radio technology and other media. Radio Technology Duplex Trunking Digital Communications Simplex System 2
25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 Allows only way communications Transmits and receives on same Duplex System Able to transmit and simultaneously frequencies for each channel Multiplex Systems Able to transmit voice and at the same time Trunking Trunked systems pool all frequencies routes transmission to 1 st available frequency Common in MHz range Digital Communications voice sounds to digital codes for transmission Must faster and more accurate Messages are thus eases overcrowding of frequencies Mobil Data Terminals are vehicle mounted Alternative Technologies Phone Facsimile New Technologies New technology is being developed everyday of patient information from one machine to another reports are now common Transmission of EKGs Automatic Collision Notification (ACN) New technologies should be embraced and Reporting Procedures One of your most important skills will be essential patient information, organizing it, and relaying it to the medical direction physician. Standard Reporting Format (1 of 2) Identification of and provider Description of Patient s, sex, and approximate weight Patient s chief Brief history (OPQRST) Standard Reporting Format (2 of 2) Pertinent medical history (SAMPLE) Pertinent exam findings given so far/request for orders Estimated time of arrival to the hospital 3
34 35 36 37 38 39 40 Other pertinent information Being concise, descriptive, and thorough are hallmarks of a General Radio Procedures (1 of 3) Listen to channel transmitting Press transmit button for second before speaking Speak to microphone Speak slowly and clearly Be Avoid General Radio Procedures (2 of 3) Avoid information Protect patient s privacy Use correct names and titles (not patient s name) Do not use or profanity Use standard for transmission Be concise General Radio Procedures (3 of 3) Use procedure when receiving directions/orders Always down important information Obtain when completing a transmission Elements of Medical Patient Report identification Patient identification data (what pt says) data (what you know) S/S Findings Plan Elements of Trauma Patient Report Paramedic identification identification Mechanism of Assessment findings Vitals Plan Federal Communications Commission (FCC) The agency that controls all nongovernmental in the United States Have monitoring equipment for ALL frequencies Have and will assess and penalties for inappropriate radio conduct 4
41 The FCC: Licenses and allocates frequencies. Establishes technical frequencies to assure appropriate usage. Spot checks base stations and dispatch centers for appropriate licenses and records. 5