EMS Communication Systems

Course overview

Objectives. Describe various communication systems found in the field of EMS. Explain the process for radio communication and the regulatory agencies that oversee this. Define terms used to describe radio communication. Explain how radio communication is monitored and regulated. Describe the techniques that should be implemented to ensure effective communication in the field. Content. System Components. 1.1 Base station. 1.2 Mobile radios transmitter receivers. 1.2.1 Vehicular mounted device. 1.2.2 Mobile transmitters usually transmit at lower power than base stations typically 20 to 50 watts. 1.2.3 Typical transmission range is 10 to 15 miles over average terrain. 1.3 Portable radios transmitter receivers. 1.3.1 Handheld device. 1.3.2 Typically have power output of 1 to 5 watts limiting their range. 1.4 Repeater base station. 1.5 Digital radio equipment. 1.6 Cellular telephones. Radio Communications. 2.1 Radio frequencies. 2.2 Response to the scene. 2.2.1 The dispatcher needs to be notified that the call was received. 2.2.2 Dispatch needs to know that the unit is en route. 2.3 Arrival at the scene dispatcher must be notified. 2.4 Depart the scene. 2.4.1 Dispatcher must be notified. 2.4.2 Prolonged on scene times with absence of communications. 2.5 Arrival at the receiving facility or rendezvous point dispatcher must be notified. 2.6 Arrival for service after patient transfer dispatcher must be notified. Communicating with other health care professionals. 3.1 Communication with medical control. 3.1.1 Medical control is at the receiving facility or at a separate site. 3.1.2 Paramedics may need to contact medical control for consultation and to obtain medication orders. 3.1.3 Paramedics must be accurate. 3.1.4 After receiving an order for a medication or procedure repeat the order back word for word. 3.1.5 Orders that are unclear or appear inappropriate should be questioned or clarified. 3.2 Communication with receiving facilities. 3.2.1 Patient reporting concepts. 3.2.2 Arrival at the hospital. 3.2.3 Leaving the hospital for the station. System Maintenance. 4.1 Radio checks. 4.2 Planning for failures. Phone and Wireless Communications. Team communication and dynamics. 6.1 Source. 6.2 Medium. 6.3 Common symbols. 6.4 Clear format. 6.4.1 Written. 6.4.2 Verbal. 6.4.3 Other symbols. 6.5 Encoding. 6.6 Message. 6.7 Decoding. 6.8 Receiver. 6.9 Feedback.