Principles of Patient Assessment in EMS

1. Principles of Patient Assessment in EMS By: Bob Elling, MPA, EMT-P & Kirsten Elling, BS, EMT-P

2. Chapter 22 – Putting it All Together © 2003 Delmar Learning, a Division of Thomson Learning, Inc.

3. Objectives • Provide examples of an EMS provider’s role in patient advocacy. • Demonstrate how the patient assessment algorithm is an essential tool for the EMS provider to use in the field. © 2003 Delmar Learning, a Division of Thomson Learning, Inc.

4. Introduction • Patient advocacy is an important component of care. • Review the process of assessment as a whole. © 2003 Delmar Learning, a Division of Thomson Learning, Inc.

5. Patient Advocacy • It is the EMS provider’s responsibility to advocate for the patient and the patient’s needs. • An example of patient advocacy is telling the the ED staff what the scene looked like. • Relate the MOI or provide a photo. © 2003 Delmar Learning, a Division of Thomson Learning, Inc.

6. Patient Advocacy • Prehospital interventions for the patient often provide dramatic improvements, which could rapidly deteriorate once in the ED if you do not impress upon the staff the patient’s initial condition. • Advocating for your patient means making sure the next caregiver understands what has been seen and learned about the patient so far. © 2003 Delmar Learning, a Division of Thomson Learning, Inc.

7. Putting it All Together • Apply the patient assessment algorithm. • Remember that assessment is a standarized, yet dynamic process, as a patient’s condition improves or deteriorates. © 2003 Delmar Learning, a Division of Thomson Learning, Inc.

8. Putting it All Together • A standarized approach helps to assure the patient receives an appropriate assessment based on the following key factors: • The environment • MOI or NOI • Severity of injury or illness • Level of care available © 2003 Delmar Learning, a Division of Thomson Learning, Inc.

9. Putting it All Together • Reassessment is an essential component of care. • Modify your plan of management as the patient’s condition warrants. © 2003 Delmar Learning, a Division of Thomson Learning, Inc.

10. Conclusion • Practice using the assessment tools provided here to gain proficiency and confidence. • Follow the patient assessment algorithm on a routine basis with all your patients. • Thanks for your dedication to helping ill and injured people! © 2003 Delmar Learning, a Division of Thomson Learning, Inc.