1- Back to basics. We often forget the basics of patient care, especially when you have been doing this job for any length of time. Anyone can just put someone on a stretcher and take them to the hospital. But as a true EMS professional, you must remember that basic patient care is the key to your overall treatment and patient outcome.

Taking proper vital signs. Blood pressure – systolic and diastolic is important. I see too many “experienced” EMS professionals palpating a blood pressure on an elderly patient just out of shear laziness. Palpating a systolic pressure only is good for trauma or in an effort to get a baseline on a critical patient. Even then, a complete set of vitals is needed to determine your patient care and whether your treatment is working or not.

The same goes for a pulse and respiratory rate. Obtaining a good pulse rate and noting its quality is a very important aspect of patient care. Listening to lung sounds and noting the rate and quality of your patients’ respiratory rate is also a key element in your patient care decision making.

The point I am trying to make is to step back and take a proper set of vitals before, during and after your treatment. A simple thing like a blood pressure may direct you towards what is truly ailing your patient, rather than an EKG or IV access.

2- Back ups – Yes calling for assistance for the critical, overweight or otherwise problematic patient is an easy request to make. But when your back up arrives, treat them as that. A back up. They did not come to do all the dirty work. Explain to them the situation, why they are needed and what you need them to help you with. Don’t just point to the patient or your equipment and grunt a command. Remember, they are EMS professionals just like you and may even have more experience and a better way of handling the situation.

Listen to their input and make a joint decision. As long as patient care isn’t delayed, a few moments of putting your heads together may just be what the doctor ordered for you, your back up and your patient.

3 – Your back – Yes the real thing, usually your lumbar area that can take a beating with any number of twisting, turning or bending acts throughout your day. Even though your back is relied upon each day to perform any number of tasks, we rarely take the time to ensure its safety and utilize proper lifting techniques.

You know the usual lift with your legs, not your back, bend at the hips etc. How about a short warm up each day prior to the start of your tour. Simple bending exercises and stretching techniques can also aid you in keeping your back strong and ready for the day. Even overhead stretches while sitting in the ambulance can keep you somewhat limber and help avoid injury.

The key is to know your limitations and lift only what you know you can. Otherwise see part 2 above and get the help you need.

Keep these simple basics in the front of your mind on each call. You will help your patient and keep yourself safe for another not so basic day.