EMT Standing Orders

Routine Patient Care:

• Approach patient using the SAFER Model: -
  • Stabilize the situation by containing and lowering stimuli
  • Assess and acknowledge the crisis.
  • Facilitate the identification and activation of resources (family, friends or police).
  • Encourage patient to use resources and take actions in his/her best interest.
  • Recovery or referral - leave patient in care of responsible person or professional, or transport to appropriate facility.
• Observe and record the patient’s behavior.
• Determine if patient is under the care of mental health professionals and record contact information.
• Assess for risk to self and others. Ask patient directly if he/she is thinking about hurting self or others. See Restraint Procedure.
• Call for AEMT/Paramedic intercept & Assisst them in patient care.

AEMT/PARAMEDIC STANDING ORDERS:

• A patient who is a danger to self or others may not refuse care. If patient refuses care and requires medical care or is danger to self or others, contact police and, transport to the nearest appropriate health facilities.
• If the patient does not appear to be an immediate threat to self or others and refuses transport:
• Encourage patient to seek mental health evaluation.
• Avoid leaving the patient alone, if possible. Assist in contacting responsible family/friends.
• For patient with suspected Excited/Agitated Delirium:
• See Restraint Procedure.
• Treat hyperthermia.
• Monitor cardiac activity and oxygen levels.
• If physical restraint is required, make sure adequate personnel are present. This generally means four people, one for each of the patient’s extremities.
• Treat other injuries and illnesses.
• If the patient is at risk for suicide or violence towards others:
• Transport to a hospital for evaluation.
• If patient refuses transport, contact law enforcement and, transport to the nearest appropriate health facilities.
• Measure blood glucose and treat accordingly as per protocol.
• Should it appear that the patient will not be transported, contact Medical Direction.
• Administer appropriate medication if patient start to seize as per protocol.