R-06-11-09-11B1 - 11/9/2006RESOLUTION NO. R -06-11-09-11B1
WHEREAS, the City of Round Rock wishes to obtain a First
Responder Organization License for Round Rock Fire Department; and
WHEREAS, one of the requirements for a First Responder
Organization License as set forth in the Texas Administrative Code,
Title 25, § 157.14 is that a First Responder Organization must enter
into a written affiliation agreement with the primary licensed EMS
provider in the service area; and
WHEREAS, Williamson County Emergency Medical Services is the
primary licensed EMS provider in the City of Round Rock service area;
and
WHEREAS, an affiliation agreement has been negotiated between the
City of Round Rock and Williamson County Emergency Medical Services;
which the City Council wishes to approve, Now Therefore
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROUND ROCK, TEXAS,
That the Mayor is hereby authorized and directed to execute on
behalf of the City an affiliation agreement between Williamson County
Emergency Medical Services and the City of Round Rock, a copy of same
being attached hereto as Exhibit "A" and incorporated herein for all
purposes.
The City Council hereby finds and declares that written notice of
the date, hour, place and subject of the meeting at which this Resolution
was adopted was posted and that such meeting was open to the public as
required by law at all times during which this Resolution and the subject
matter hereof were discussed, considered and formally acted upon, all as
required by the Open Meetings Act, Chapter 551, Texas Government Code, as
amended.
0:\wdox\RESOLUTI\R61109B1.WPD/rmc
RESOLVED this 9th day of November 2006.
EST:
.antzkvk
L, Mayor
City of Round Rock, Texas
CHRISTINE R. MARTINEZ, City Secret
2
Williamson County Emergency Medical Services
To Respect, Care and Serve
This Agreement is entered into between Williamson County EMS ("EMS"), an EMS provider
currently licensed by the Department of State Health Services (DSHS), the medical director for
EMS, Dr. Stephen Benold, M.D. ("EMS Medical Director") and the Round Rock Fire
Department ("FRO"), a first responder organization registered by the DSHS. The parties agree
that this Agreement is intended to be pursuant to the provisions set forth in 25 Texas
Administrative Code §157.14(c). This Agreement shall become effective upon the final signature
of the parties and shall remain in effect until January 31, 2008.
EMS ambulances will, when resources are available, respond to all calls and transport patients
from within the Williamson County geographical area served by the FRO. FRO will, when
resources are available, respond to all life threatening EMS medical assist calls within the
geographical area served by the FRO. Patient treatment, protocols and medical equipment used
by either the FRO or EMS will be done according to the standards defined in the EMS Scope of
Care and approved by the EMS Medical Director, a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit
A and incorporated herein for all purposes ("EMS Scope of Care").
Response Code Policy
The FRO shall follow the response code policy established by the Round Rock Fire Department,
a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit B and incorporated herein for all purposes ("FRO
Response Policy").
Assessment of Care
1. FRO First to Arrive
Upon arriving at a call, the FRO shall proceed to assess the patient's medical condition and
begin on -scene patient care until EMS arrives in accordance with the standards set forth in the
EMS Scope of Care.
2. EMS First to Arrive
EMS shall proceed to assess the patient's medical condition and begin on -scene patient care in
accordance with the standards set forth in the EMS Scope of Care. FRO shall provide
assistance when needed and requested.
Chain of Command
On -scene chain of command will follow the National Incident Management System (NIMS) with,
generally, the FRO providing the Incident Commander and EMS providing the EMS Sector
Commander. Should the FRO provide the EMS Sector Commander, EMS shall provide
assistance when needed and requested. Law Enforcement personnel may assume the Incident
Commander role in the case of a crime scene.
EXHIBIT
P.O. Box 873
303 Martin Luther King Street
Georgetown, Texas 78627
Main: (512) 943-1264
Fax: (512) 943-1269
www.wilco.org
Ambulance Cancellation
1. The FRO will not cancel a responding EMS ambulance prior to its arrival on -scene. The
FRO may advise EMS through its dispatch that there is no obvious injury or illness and
the patient expresses he or she does not want EMS (e.g. did not call EMS and does not
want them) or that the situation found does not require an emergency response by EMS.
It shall be EMS' sole decision whether to continue to respond and to determine the
appropriate level of response. Should EMS decide not to respond, EMS shall request the
FRO to obtain a written refusal of medical care on a form approved by EMS Medical
Director. Once an EMS unit arrives or medical care has been initiated by EMS, all
decisions concerning patient transport and/or patient refusal of transport will be done by
EMS only.
Transport Decisions
Transport and destination of transport decisions will be determined according to the standards
defined in the current EMS Scope of Care. Air medical transport resources may be requested
and cancelled as deemed appropriate by the responding FRO or EMS unit as outlined in the
EMS Scope of Care.
FRO will not accompany the patient to the transport destination unless requested by EMS or for
education purposes and approved by EMS. EMS shall be in charge of patient treatment during
transport. Should EMS request the FRO to accompany the patient, EMS shall ensure that the
FRO is returned to their station. Where the FRO has accompanied for education purposes, EMS
shall make every attempt to return the FRO to their station, although there may be delays.
Patient Care Reports
The FRO shall report all responses in accordance with procedures established by law or
policies and procedures adopted by their Department.
Patient Confidentiality
The FRO will develop and comply with a patient confidentiality policy designed to secure all
patient records and information at all times and that is in accordance with all laws. The FRO will
also ensure the Organization and its members comply with the requirements of the Health
Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). The FRO's patient confidentiality policy
must also address a patient record release procedure.
System Credentials and Quality Improvement
• The FRO system -credentialed responders must be authorized by the department to fully
participate in the Quality Improvement process as required by the Medical Director. This
process includes participation in in-person call reviews, documentation reviews and
continuing education. At a minimum, the FRO will meet all continuing education
requirements outlined in the Competency Based Training program. Responders must fully
participate to retain system credentialing. The FRO shall ensure all system -credentialed
responders maintain current certification or licensure at the appropriate level (at or above
the system credentialing level) and shall report to the Medical Director any disciplinary
actions imposed on a credentialed responder if the disciplinary action is associated with the
provision of medical care and negatively affects the credentialed responders' certification or
licensure.
The Williamson County EMS System Page 2 of 4 July 11, 2006
FRO Identification
The FRO and EMS shall agree on the following:
• response availability days of the week & times of the day
• FRO's identification tag must meet the following requirements:
o Must have responder's photo
o Must have a credentialing date that coincides with the FRO's registration
date
o Indicates the responder's name, agency and state certification level
o Indicates the responder's system credentialing level using the following
color code. The color code is prominently placed on the ID tag as a
border or background.
• Red Border — responder credentialing at Paramedic level
■ Blue/Red Border —responders credentialing at the Advanced
Provider level
■ Blue Border —responder credentialing at the EMT level
• Green Border —responder credentialing at ECA level
■ Black Border — responder credentialing at FR CPR/AED level
• No color Border — trained or untrained personnel who are not
credentialed to provide any patient care
• All responder's identification tags must be prominently displayed when interacting
with the patient and when patient care is being rendered, except when wearing
appropriate safety gear.
Other Requirements
In addition to the above, the FRO will also:
• ensure a copy of the current FRO registration is located on all apparatus/vehicles
responding to medical incidents. Copies of EMS Scope of Care and approved Medical
Equipment list shall be located at either the FRO's administrative offices or also provided on
the apparatus/vehicles responding to medical incidents.
Supplies and Equipment
EMS will not be responsible for supplying, maintaining, or retrieving FRO equipment or supplies,
except that EMS will replace supplies used by the FRO, on a one for one basis provided the
FRO does not bill the patient for these same items.
Responsibility and Liability
The FRO assumes any and all associated liability, if any, related to patient care rendered by
FRO personnel. EMS shall not be responsible for care rendered, training, accidents, injuries,
exposures or any liability involving FRO personnel, equipment, supplies or vehicles.
EMS assumes any and all associated liability, if any, related to patient care rendered by EMS
personnel. The FRO shall not be responsible for care rendered, training, accidents, injuries,
exposures or any liability involving EMS personnel, equipment, supplies or vehicles.
Party Disputes and Termination
In the event any discrepancies arise between EMS and FRO personnel relating to patient care
or transport, the respective Department Chiefs/Directors shall be advised. A meeting will be
The Williamson County EMS System Page 3 of 4 July 11, 2006
arranged for all personnel involved with the Medical Director (clinical issues) and/or the EMS
Director of Operations (operational issues). This will be done to prevent any problems from
creating animosity between departments, thus adversely affecting patient care. Any party may
cancel this Agreement upon sixty (60) days written notice.
The Round Rock Fire Department will function under the following EMS Scope of Care
(please check one).
g4ersion A (all medications carried by first out response apparatus or responders)
0 Version B (no medications other than oxygen are carried by any apparatus or responders)
City of Round Rock:
Nyle Maxwell Mayor
(print name) (signature)
Williamson County EMS:
Jeff Haves
(title) (date)
Director of Operations
(print name)
Williamson County EMS:
Stephen Benold, M.D.
(signature)
(title) (date)
Medical Director
(print name) (signature) (title) (date)
WILLIAMSON COUNTY
SCOPE OF CARE
INTRODUCTION
CREDENTIAL LEVEL: ALL BLS RESPONDERS
VERSION A
EFFECTIVE APRIL 10, 2006 THROUGH JANUARY 31, 2008
The Williamson County EMS System
Page 1 Scope of Care Intro
To Respect, Care & Serve
TABLE OF CONTENTS - BLS VER. A
TOPIC PAGE NO.
INTRODUCTION SECTION 1
SCOPE OF CARE PURPOSE 4
SCOPE OF CARE CONCEPT 5
WCEMS MEDICAL DIRECTOR 6
PERSONNEL COVERED 7
DO NOT RESUSCITATE 8
ON-LINE MEDICAL CONTROL 9
ADULT & PEDIATRIC DEFINITIONS 10
CANCELLATION OF RESPONDING UNITS 11
REFUSAL OF TRANSPORT OR TREATMENT 12
GENERAL USE OF THE SCOPE OF CARE DOCUMENT 13
BLS SCOPE OF CARE SECTION 15
ADVANCED BLS SKILLS 16
AIRWAY & VENTILATORY MANAGEMENT 17
ASSESSMENT 18
BLOOD GLUCOSE MANAGEMENT 19
CIRCULATORY SUPPORT 20
COMBATIVE PATIENT MANAGEMENT 21
NAUSEA & EMESIS MANAGEMENT 22
PAIN MANAGEMENT 23
SPECIFIC MEDICAL INTERVENTIONS 24
• ACUTE CORONARY SYNDROMES 24
• ALTERED MENTATION 24
• ALLERGIC REACTION / ANAPHYLAXIS 24
• BRADYCARDIA 24
• CONVULSIONS 25
• CPR - CARDIAC ARREST MEDICAL, ALL RHYTHMS 25
• CROUP / EPIGLOTTITIS 26
• HEAT EXHAUSTION 26
• HYPERTHERMIA 26
• HYPOTHERMIA 26
• INGESTION POISONING 26
• OBSTETRICAL EMERGENCIES 27
• ORGANOPHOSPHATE POISONING 27
• PULMONARY EDEMA- CARDIOGENIC 27
• REACTIVE AIRWAY DISEASE 27
TRANSPORT 28
• TRAUMA TRANSPORT 28
• HELICOPTER TRANSPORT 28
The Williamson County EMS System
Page 2 Scope of Care Intro
To Respect, Care & Serve
TABLE OF CONTENTS - BLS VER. A (CONTINUED)
TOPIC
PAGE NO.
TRAUMA MANAGEMENT, SPECIFIC INTERVENTIONS 29
• ABUSE - SUSPECTED 29
• BURNS 29
• CARDIAC ARREST - MULTI -SYSTEM TRAUMA 29
• CONDUCTED ENERGY WEAPONS (TASER®) 29
• CRYOTHERAPY 30
• CRUSH INJURY 30
• DEATH - OBVIOUS 30
• ELEVATION 30
• FACIAL TRAUMA AND EYE INJURIES 30
• HEAD INJURY WITH RESPIRATORY FAILURE/ARREST 31
• MUSCULOSKELETAL MOTION RESTRICTION (SPLINTING) 31
• SNAKEBITE 31
• SPINAL MOTION RESTRICTION 32
• WOUND CARE 33
REQUIRED EQUIPMENT LIST - BLS VER. A
The Williamson County EMS System
Page 3 Scope of Care Intro
To Respect, Care & Serve
SCOPE OF CARE PURPOSE
The Williamson County Emergency Medical Services Scope of Care is designed to clearly
define the scope of care expected by and for all persons within Williamson County. This scope
of care is founded in excellence, diligently maintained, continuously reevaluated and enhanced.
The Scope of Care is based on the most current, nationally accepted standards for out of
hospital emergency medical care. To the extent possible, the therapies identified in this Scope
of Care are based on valid, current clinical research and/or WCEMS clinical data.
Successful implementation of this Scope of Care requires providers dedicated to quality patient
care, appropriate medical equipment, administrative facilitation, continuing education, public
support and medical direction.
The Scope of Care defines the expected therapies for specific patients. The Scope of Care pre-
defines the limits of practice for a provider under the authorization of the Medical Director. Any
practice outside of these limits requires authorization at the time of performance by a licensed
physician or the responder's designated Medical Control.
The Williamson County EMS System
Page 4 Scope of Care Intro
To Respect, Care & Serve
Scope of care defines what diagnostic tools and interventions providers may utilize. The Scope
of Care defines the therapies identified as appropriate for specific patients. Discretion may be
used to omit specific therapies if deemed inappropriate for a specific patient. Therapies beyond
those listed in the Scope of Care require approval of other medical direction. The scope of care
varies with 1) certification level, 2) credentialing status, and 3) departmental approval by the
WCEMS Medical Director. Any reference to paramedic includes both certified and licensed
paramedics (WCEMS Paramedics and First Responder Paramedics).
Coordination of patient care under this scope of care must follow a specific medical chain of
command. All on -scene credentialed providers are encouraged to actively participate in patient
care. Final decisions regarding patient care are made as follows:
First Responders without On -Scene System -Credentialed Paramedics(P)
One person must be assigned to lead the patient care. All on -scene credentialed responders
are expected to be actively involved in the care of the patient. Questions arising regarding
medical decisions will ultimately be resolved by the first responder with the highest credentialing
level until the credentialed Paramedic (P) arrives on scene.
System -Credentialed Paramedics(P) On -Scene
One person must be assigned to lead the patient care. Both Credentialed Paramedics (P) will
both be actively involved in the care of the patient. Questions arising regarding medical
decisions will ultimately be resolved by the Credentialed Paramedic (P) leading the patient care
once he/she is on scene.
Conflicts regarding treatment modalities should not be discussed in front of patients. If a conflict
arises which might endanger the patient, the providers should discreetly discuss concerns to
ensure patient safety. When disagreement exists, the above described process for resolution
must be followed.
Discussion among the providers involved regarding the conflict should occur after patient care is
complete. Any concerns unresolved by discussion should be submitted in writing to the Medical
Director within three business days for evaluation and resolution. If an in person discussion is
required, the Clinical Practices Division will schedule a meeting with all involved providers. The
first responder organization may include their chain of command in the conflict resolution, but
this should not delay evaluation and resolution by the Medical Director.
The Williamson County EMS System
Page 5 Scope of Care Intro
To Respect, Care & Serve
s
Medical direction for the Williamson County EMS System is provided by Stephen Benold, M.D..
His medical direction is provided through this scope of care, educational oversight, quality
assurance, quality improvement, administrative cooperation and regular interaction with the care
providers. It is recognized that his knowledge, dedication and license make it possible for the
EMS system to function.
By State of Texas Department of State Health Service Regulation and the
Texas Medical Practice Act, all emergency medical care is performed under the
auspices of the Medical Director. All privileges and rights are granted with the
requirement of maintaining all State, National and System Standards,
Certifications and Licenses, as appropriate. The Medical Director, or in his
absence his appointed physician designee, has the authority at any time to limit,
suspend or revoke System Credential to Practice.
Stephen Benold, M.D. — Medical Director
The Williamson County Emergency Medical Services System
Valid from April 10, 2006 through January 31, 2008
The Williamson County EMS System
Page 6 Scope of Care Intro
To Respect, Care & Serve
This scope of care is for use by Medical Director credentialed providers. These providers are
allowed to practice under his license according to the Delegated Practice Act.
This scope of care applies to the credentialing level of the on -scene provider. This authorization
to practice applies while the provider is functioning as a responder with a Williamson County
Registered First Responder Organization or Williamson County EMS. Personnel may not
operate beyond his/her credentialing level regardless of his/her personal state certification level.
Any WCEMS personnel responding with a first responder or fire agency must operate under that
agency's policies unless requested to provide advanced life support (ALS) by an on -scene
WCEMS paramedic. Any WCEMS paramedic, not responding for another agency, may operate
under this scope of care while off-duty in the state of Texas. Any advanced procedures shall be
performed only at the request of the on scene EMS agency. Williamson County First
Responders may practice under the BLS Williamson County Scope of Care when responding as
a responder for their first responder organization. Non -credentialed providers may be utilized
under the guidance of Williamson County credentialed providers.
Williamson County credentialed providers include the following:
• Paramedics (P) — Providers meeting all credentialing requirements for the Paramedic
level; May utilize all therapies included in the Scope of Care
• First Responder Paramedic (FRP) — Providers who respond as part of a Williamson
County registered first responder organization who have met all credentialing
requirements for the First Responder Paramedic level; May utilize all therapies
included in the Scope of Care identified by the FRP, FRAP, EMT -B, ECA, FR
notations.
• First Responder Advanced Provider (FRAP) — Providers who respond as part of a
Williamson County registered first responder organization who have met all
credentialing requirements for the First Responder Advanced Provider level; May
utilize all therapies included in the Scope of Care identified by the FRAP, EMT -B,
ECA, FR notations.
• First Responder EMT -B (EMT -B) — Providers certified at the EMT, EMT -1 or EMT -P
level AND meeting all credentialing requirements for the first responder BLS level;
May utilize all therapies delegated to the EMT, ECA and FR credentialing levels
• First Responder ECA (ECA) — Providers certified at the ECA level AND meeting all
credentialing requirements for the first responder BLS level; May utilize all therapies
delegated to the ECA or FR credentialing levels
• First Responders that are CPR/AED trained (FR) — Providers who are not certified at
any EMS level but who meet all credentialing requirements for the first responder
level; May utilize all therapies delegated to the FR credentialing level
The Williamson County EMS System
Page 7
To Respect, Care & Serve
Scope of Care Intro
A DNR order will be honored for any patient presenting the Department of State Health Services
(DSHS, formerly TDH) form that is complete or approved identification device. A photocopy or
fax copy of a Texas DNR may be honored. A device without a DNR form will be honored only if
it is an official Texas device.
As well, an original and complete DNR form from any state will be honored, with or without a
bracelet, necklace or other device. A device from another state cannot be honored without the
original and complete DNR form from that state.
A verbal order from the patient's personal physician on -scene will also be honored. Other
documents, such as an advanced directive or living will, should be honored. However, only a
valid DNR legally applies to pre -hospital providers.
If the form is valid and the patient is eligible (e.g. cardiac or respiratory arrest without any
exclusions listed below), Do Not:
• begin CPR
• transcutaneous cardiac pacing
• defibrillation
• advanced airway management
• artificial ventilation
DNR orders will NOT BE honored if there is any suspicion of suicide, homicide or other
unnatural death, or if the patient is pregnant. It is always acceptable to contact medical control
in the event the scene situation is unclear, or if conflict arises.
Document the form or device number on the patient care record.
The Williamson County EMS System
Page 8 Scope of Care Intro
To Respect, Care & Serve
The complexity of medicine and the nature of EMS guarantee patient conditions that cannot be
completely addressed by this scope of care. Therefore, authorization of on-line medical control
may be obtained to implement the needed interventions. In those situations, contacting on-line
medical control for direction is appropriate and encouraged. The on-line medical control for first
response agencies is the responding Paramedic unit, unless a licensed physician is on -scene.
On-line medical control for WCEMS Paramedics includes:
• the patient's physician,
• the emergency department's receiving physician,
• the base hospital emergency department's physician, or
• a licensed physician on -scene
Interventions preceded by "SUGGEST" indicate the need to contact on-line medical control and
receive authorization before proceeding with the intervention.
Physician assistance on -scene (e.g. not the patient's physician) can be an asset; however,
certain procedures must be followed for the safety of the patient. Appropriate identification
should be requested if the physician is unknown to the providers. The on -scene physician must
assume responsibility for the patient, accompany the patient to the hospital and sign the patient
care documentation. The physician name, address, and contact number should be documented
with the signature. If the on -scene physician refuses, this scope of care will be followed and the
physician's name should be documented if possible.
Base Hospital
Region .'
Hospital
North Region
Georgetown Hospital
South Region
Round Rock Medical Center
East Region
Johns Community Hospital
West Region
Round Rock Medical Center or
Georgetown Hospital
The Williamson County EMS System
Page 9 Scope of Care Intro
To Respect, Care & Serve
ADULT & PEDIATRIC DEFINITIONS
For this scope of care, adult and pediatric patients are defined as:
Neonatal — birth to one month
Infant - one month to one year of age
Child - one year to onset of puberty (approximately 12-14 years of age)
Adult — age greater than onset of puberty
The Williamson County EMS System
Page 10 Scope of Care Intro
To Respect, Care & Serve
Once EMS registered first responders and EMS ambulance units are dispatched, cancellation of
units will occur only as follows:
• First Responders
o May be cancelled by any on -scene provider credentialed at the EMT -B level or
greater following an initial patient/scene assessment
• EMS Ambulances
o May be cancelled by any on -scene provider credentialed at the EMT -B level or
greater if
• Authorized by the provider's organization, and
• No patient exists or no obvious injury/illness exists, and
• Patient does not want EMS or ambulance transport
o May be cancelled by any on -scene provider credentialed at the FRP level or
greater if:
• Authorized by the provider's organization, and
• Patient refuses transport or treatment, and
• Patient does not want EMS or ambulance transport, and
• Provider completes an approved patient care report for refusal of
transport/treatment
o May be cancelled by
• On scene Law Enforcement
• Communications (Dispatch) Center if Caller requests cancellation or new
information indicates EMS not needed (e.g. patient left scene)
• EMS Helicopters
o May be cancelled by any on -scene provider credentialed at the EMT -B level or
greater following an initial patient/scene assessment
o May be cancelled by responding WCEMS Paramedic Unit
The Williamson County EMS System
Page 11 Scope of Care Intro
To Respect, Care & Serve
All patients will be offered treatment and transport. Williamson County EMS does not deny
treatment or transport to any patient.
Patients, who in the judgment of the paramedic crew should be evaluated by a physician, may
occasionally refuse transport (against medical advice refusal — AMA refusal). In these cases,
every effort must be made to obtain consent for transport. If the patient continues to refuse
transport, the paramedic must:
• Contact the patient's primary care physician if applicable
• Contact on-line medical control at the region's base hospital
When contact is made with either of the above physicians, the assessment findings and
concerns should be quickly and clearly communicated. The Paramedic should speak to the
physician concerning the need for EMS transport. This serves as a medical consult in an effort
to identify any additional measures that might be used to obtain patient consent for
transport/treatment.
or
If the patient or responsible party continues to refuse EMS transport, the paramedic must
document the following:
• Name of physician contacted and direction provided
• Evaluation of the patient's capacity to refuse transport
• Efforts to offer treatment and transportation
• Other methods used to encourage EMS transport
• Consequences of transport refusal were explained to the patient &/or family
• Consequences of transport refusal were understood by the patient &/or family
• Patient was advised EMS will return if patient later desires transport
Any patient 17 years of age or younger may not consent to or refuse treatment, unless they
meet the legal qualifications of an emancipated minor. All such consent to or refusal of
treatment must be obtained from a parent, legal guardian (including law enforcement) or other
adult family member. In the absence of such consent to or refusal of treatment, the patient
should be treated under implied consent.
The Williamson County EMS System
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To Respect, Care & Serve
Scope of Care Intro
GENERAL USE OF THE SCOPE OF CARE DOCUMENT
This Document applies to all responders while functioning as an emergency responder within
one of the Williamson County Registered First Responder Organizations or the Williamson
County EMS department.
Every Scope of Care item (protocol) listed in this document outlines the preferred interventions
to be performed by System Credentialed Responders. These interventions are listed in the
preferred order of use. In some cases, the interventions are intended to be performed
simultaneously. In other cases, one intervention must be completed before proceeding to the
next. Each intervention is available at the responder's discretion unless noted otherwise. When
the responder omits a listed intervention for which he/she is authorized to perform, the patient
care record must reflect the rationale for the omission. Along the same line, the responder must
document all requests for and authorizations for interventions not contained in this Scope of
Care document as well as all SUGGEST interventions.
Each intervention is accompanied by a notation designating the credentialing levels authorized
to perform the intervention. The notations used are: All Responders, FR, ECA, EMT -B, FRAP,
FRP, and P. Any intervention that is not accompanied by one of these notations is assumed to
be authorized for all levels of responders.
Each Responder Credentialing Level will be provided with the Scope of Care document
containing the interventions for his/her level only. The document will not discuss interventions
which are outside the scope or authorization for a specific responder credentialing level.
The Williamson County EMS System
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The Williamson County EMS System
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Scope of Care Intro
BLS SCOPE OF CARE
Credential Level: BLS Version A
(FR, ECA, EMT -B)
The Williamson County EMS System
Page 15 BLS Version A Scope of Care
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PHARMACEUTICAL INTERVENTIONS
Medication usage will be done only according to the specific trauma or specific medical
intervention protocols.
• Prior to medication administration, all patients should be asked about allergies.
• All medications should be checked for name, concentration, expiration date,
discoloration, particulate matter and other signs of contamination.
• It is critical that a patient only be given the indicated drug at the appropriate dosage,
route, rate and interval.
The following pharmaceutical interventions are approved for use:
ECA, EMT -B
• Glucose Gel
• Oxygen
EMT -B
• Albuterol, nebulized
• ASA, oral
• Charcoal (Activated), oral
• Epi -pen / Epi -pen Jr. Autoinjector
• NTG, Sublingual
These medications may be used as listed in the specific trauma and specific medicine
intervention sections of this document.
No Responder may utilize an intervention, pharmaceutical or medical device:
• For which he/she is not trained, or
• Which is beyond the scope of his/her WCEMS Medical Director recognized training, or
• Which is not authorized by the WCEMS System Medical Director (not a part of the
responder's credentialing level)
The Williamson County EMS System
Page 16 BLS Version A Scope of Care
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1
BLS (All Responders)
Airway management will be based on rapid, accurate assessment of the patient, with
interventions beginning as soon as the need is identified. (Refer to the Procedures section for
detailed airway assessment and management)
Initial airway management will always begin with any of the following basic life support
measures as indicated by patient presentation and based on available equipment:
• Head tilt/chin lift (if no C-spine precautions indicated or unable to use jaw thrust)
• Jaw thrust (if C-spine precautions indicated)
• Suction — oral pharyngeal and nare(s)
• Oral pharyngeal airway (OPA) insertion
• Nasal pharyngeal airway (NPA) insertion
The following oxygenation and ventilation procedures may be utilized as indicated by patient
presentation and based on available equipment:
• Non-rebreather attached to 02 at >10 LPM (ECA, EMT -B)
• Nasal cannula attached to 02 at 1-6 LPM (ECA, EMT -B)
• Bag valve mask without oxygen (authorized responders may add oxygen)
• Bag valve mask attached to 02 at 15-25 LPM (ECA, EMT -B)
• Nebulizer attached to 02 at 6-10 LPM (EMT -B)
The following assessment aids may also be used in addition to clinical signs:
• Pulse oximetry (if equipment available)
The following procedures may be used to assist ALS personnel if requested:
• Cricoid pressure
• Backward, Upward, Right Pressure (BURP)
Ongoing assessments are needed to assure continued efficacy of the interventions.
The Williamson County EMS System
Page 17 BLS Version A Scope of Care
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BLS (All Responders)
All patients will be assessed initially, with continuous reassessments done until the patient is
transferred to more definitive care. (The minimum standard for the assessment, which may be
modified based on individual circumstances, is outlined in the Procedures reference section).
When scene circumstances do not allow the responders to meet the following requirements, the
PCR must document reasons for the omissions.
• Vital Signs will be obtained and recorded as follows for all patients who are treated or
transported (not required for patients who are not treated or not assessed):
o approximately every 15 minutes during patient contact
o after each medication or advanced therapy
o approximately every 5 minutes during patient contact with a critically ill or injured
patient
• At a minimum, two (2) sets of Vital Signs will be obtained and will include: pulse rate,
respiration rate, and blood pressure (auscultated or palpated)
• As time permits and patient presentation suggests, vital signs should also include
oxygen saturation, blood glucose level, and temperature.
o Oxygen saturation is obtained in all patients with evidence of or a complaint of
respiratory difficulty
o Blood glucose level is obtained in all patients with altered mental status and
when abnormal glucose level is suspected.
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BLS (ECA, EMT -B)
A conscious, hypoglycemic patient or adult patient with a blood glucose level Tess than 90 mg/dl
may be treated with 15-25 gm oral glucose gel as needed, ONLY if the patient has the ability to
swallow and maintain his/her own airway without assistance
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Circulatory support will be based on a rapid, accurate assessment of the patient, with
interventions beginning when the need is identified.
BLS (All Responders)
The following circulatory support interventions may be utilized to establish/maintain a patient's
hemodynamic stability:
• Positioning (as appropriate)
o Trendelenburg position
o Supine
o Lateral recumbent, preferably left side (for non -trauma patients)
o Tilting backboard for pregnant or obese patients, preferably left side
• Adequate warmth based on patient comfort
• CPR (Current American Heart Association or equivalent guidelines)
• Defibrillation/AED for cardiac arrest patients only, when available
The BLS responder may obtain a blood sample for glucose check. However, BLS responders
are not authorized to collect or transfer blood (syringe and/or blood tube methods).
The following procedures may be used to assist ALS personnel if requested and trained to do
so:
• Setup saline lock for IV/IO application
• Setup IV/IO fluid bag(s) for infusion with / without extension set as specified
• Setup IV/IO medication bag(s) for infusion (lidocaine, dopamine, magnesium) on
micro tubing with / without extension set as specified.
• Do not perform IV/IO venipuncture
• Do not connect IV/IO medication bag or tubing to the patient's IV/IO
• Do not draw up or measure medications, adjust IV/IO flow rate or adjust dosing
Ongoing assessments are needed to assure continued efficacy of the interventions.
The Williamson County EMS System
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At times it may be necessary to restrain combative patients in order to prevent them from further
injuring themselves, bystanders or providers. The first step must be to identify the patient who
poses a significant threat to himself/herself or others.
BLS (All Responders)
The following procedures MUST be followed when restraining combative patients:
• Maintain a professional demeanor at all times.
• If possible, request that a Law Enforcement Officer initiate the restraint
• Check for and, if possible, provide treatment for underlying causes of combativeness
including:
o hypoglycemia
o hypoxia
o closed head injury
o substance abuse
• The preferred method of soft physical restraint by EMS involves use of triangular
bandages. Handcuffs should only be used when the Law Enforcement Officer
deems necessary.
o The officer must remain with the patient at all times.
o Do not allow patient's weight to rest on the handcuffs unless they are double
locked
o Confer with the LE officer to change to soft restraints (e.g. triangular bandages)
o All restraints must be able to be removed quickly
• Combative patients being transported MUST be restrained in the Supine position
o The preferred position is with legs and arms extended.
o If necessary to achieve initial restraint, the prone or semi-prone position may be
used ONLY until control of the patient is established.
o The prone or semi-prone position WILL NOT be used for an extended period of
time or anytime during transport
o No patient will be transported in the hogtied position.
• Administer oxygen by non-rebreather mask to ALL patients restrained due to
combativeness, delirium, or extreme excited state.
o No other devices will be used to cover the patient's mouth
• Monitor the oxygen saturation on all restrained patients
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Page 21 BLS Version A Scope of Care
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NAUSEA & EMESIS MANAGEMENT
BLS (ECA, EMT -B)
High flow oxygen administration can be helpful in combating nausea on the BLS level.
The Williamson County EMS System
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BLS Version A Scope of Care
1
Every reasonable effort should be made to control pain for the patient after life threatening
injuries or illnesses are treated
BLS (All Responders)
The primary methods available for trauma include gentle patient packaging, careful movement,
motion restriction, oxygen therapy and cryotherapy. These methods should be utilized at all
times (if appropriate).
The Williamson County EMS System
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ACUTE CORONARY SYNDROME (ADULT CARDIAC ISCHEMIA WITH / WITHOUT CHEST PAIN)
BLS
• Oxygen to maintain oxygen saturation greater than 90% (if no pulse ox available, use
NRB mask) (ECA, EMT -B)
• ASA 324 mg chew and swallow (EMT -B)
• NTG tablet/spray, may repeat every 5 minutes to a total of 3 doses if:
(EMT -B)
o SBP>_ 90 mmHg and
o No severe bradycardia or tachycardia, and
o No erectile dysfunction medication use within 48 hours
ALTERED MENTATION (ALL. RESPONDERS)
• Assess for cause and treat per trauma or medical protocol
ALLERGIC REACTION / ANAPHYLAXIS
BLS (EMT -BI
If a systemic reaction with signs/symptoms of hypotension, severe dyspnea or airway
obstruction is present:
• Epi Auto -injection pen if patient > 70 lbs (32 kg)
o PEDI: Epi pediatric Auto -injection pen if pt 33 lbs -70 lbs (15 kg -32 kg)
• Albuterol 1 unit dose nebulized if wheezing is present
BRADYCARDIA (WITH SIGNS OF POOR PERFUSION)
• PEDI (with a pulse causing cardiorespiratory compromise)
BLS (ECA, EMT -B)
o Oxygen by NRB mask or ventilate with Bag Mask
• Continue if HR < 100
o If HR < 60 with continued poor perfusion, perform CPR
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CONVULSIONS
BLS (ECA, EMT -8)
• Protect patient from injury
• Oxygen NRB mask or ventilate with Bag mask
• Remove clothing to cool patient if febrile convulsions suspected
CPR - CARDIAC ARREST MEDICAL (ALL ARREST RHYTHMS)
BLS (All Responders)
• Open airway and assess breathing
• If not breathing give two breaths that make chest rise (no more than 2 attempts for
adults)
• Check pulse for up to 10 seconds. If no pulse, begin chest compressions
o Adult 1- or 2 -rescuer use ratio of 30 compressions to 2 breaths
o Infant & Child
■ 1 -rescuer use ratio of 30 compressions to 2 breaths
• 2 -rescuer use ratio of 15 compressions to 2 breaths
o Push Hard, Push Fast (100/min) and Allow complete chest recoil
o Rotate person performing chest compressions every 2 minutes
• If arrest witnessed by responder, apply AED or Defibrillator immediately and prepare
to deliver a defibrillatory shock
o If not witnessed by responder but two minutes of EFFECTIVE CPR provided
prior to arrival of responder, may apply AED or Defibrillator
• Perform CPR for approximately 2 minutes (5 cycles) before applying AED
• AED (child > 1 year of age), if available
o Follow AED prompts
o Use Pediatric pads or child system if < 8 years of age
■ Use Adult pads if pediatric pads are not available
• Continue until Paramedics take over patient care or patient begins to move
o Adult - ventilate at 10-12 breaths per minute (one every 5 to 6 seconds)
o Infant/Child — ventilate at 12-20 breaths per minute (one every 3 to 5 seconds)
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CROUP / EPIGLOTTITIS
BLS (All Responders)
• Interventions ONLY as tolerated
• If altered LOC or central cyanosis, positive pressure ventilation with BVM using 2
person technique (override pop-off valve if pediatric patient)
HEAT EXHAUSTION
BLS (All Responders)
• Water or 50% diluted sport drinks by mouth if no LOC change or nausea (if
available)
HYPERTHERMIA
BLS (All Responders)
• Cool patient rapidly if indicated
HYPOTHERMIA
BLS (ECA, EMT -B)
• Handle patient gently
• Remove wet clothing
• Oral glucose gel (not injectable glucose), 15-25 gm if able to control airway
INGESTION POISONING
BLS (All Responders)
• Contact Poison Control Center (PCC) 1-800-222-1222. PCC insists on one point of
contact only. The individual who makes the original contact must inform PCC when
a new provider takes over, in order to assure continuation of care
• Charcoal (Activated) if requested by PCC and no forceful administration required up
to 1 gm/kg by mouth to maximum of: (EMT -B)
o Adult: 100 gm
o Child: 50 gm
o Infant: consult medical control
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OBSTETRICAL EMERGENCIES
Abruptio Placenta & Placenta Previa
BLS (EMT -B)
• Treat for shock
Postpartum Hemorrhage
BLS (EMT -B)
• Massage upper abdomen over uterus (fundal massage)
• Have baby breast-feed if possible
Prolapsed Umbilical Cord
BLS (EMT -B)
• Place the mother in the supine knee -chest position as tolerated
• Provide oxygen by non-rebreather mask
• Place a gloved hand into vagina and gently lift infant's head to relieve pressure on
umbilical cord
ORGANOPHOSPHATE POISONING
(Pesticides — signs/symptoms: increased salivation, urination, defecation, gastric distress,
emesis and tear production)
BLS (All Responders)
• Protect responders
• Decontaminate patient
PULMONARY EDEMA - CARDIOGENIC
BLS (All Responders)
• Place patient upright if possible or semi -fowlers
• Positive Pressure Ventilation with BVM
• SUGGEST Albuterol 1 unit dose by nebulizer (EMT -B)
REACTIVE AIRWAY DISEASE
BLS (EMT -B)
• Albuterol 1 unit dose by nebulizer in the presence of wheezing
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TRAUMA TRANSPORT (ALL RESPONDERS)
Definitive treatment of any critical trauma is only possible in the hospital environment. In
recognition of this fact, transport is the most important intervention, after the ABCs are
managed. For critical trauma patients:
• Interventions done on -scene should focus on preparing the patient for transport.
• Advanced procedures should be done enroute to the hospital unless delays which
cannot be controlled are present
There are two primary sources of transport, although others may be used if needed and
available due to catastrophic conditions: Ground Transport and Helicopter Transport
HELICOPTER TRANSPORT (ALL RESPONDERS)
For any patient, air transport may be considered. The following guide the use of helicopter
transport:
• Reduction in transport time to a trauma center compared to ground transport for a
seriously injured trauma patient
• The patient meets criteria for transport to the closest trauma center and whose
condition will likely need immediate intervention not available in the pre -hospital setting
• The patient meets criteria for transport to the closest trauma center and whose
condition is stable provided the patient's condition requires the shortest out of hospital
time possible
• When air transport is considered, the helicopter should be requested immediately
based on initial call information
• Air transport should be cancelled immediately during patient contact once patient
assessment findings do not indicate its need
• Air transport may be cancelled by an on -scene EMT -B, FRAP, FRP or Paramedic
assuming medical command
• Air transport should never delay patient arrival at the hospital; The transport provider
should rarely wait at the scene for a helicopter when the critical trauma patient is ready
for ground transport
MAST helicopter may be requested, if no commercial service is available, with approval of the
on -duty EMS Shift Commander.
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TRAUMA MANAGEMENT, SPECIFIC INTERVENTIONS
ABUSE — SUSPECTED (ALL RESPONDERS)
• Treat traumatic injuries as described previously
• Report privately to next care provider responsible for patient
• Report to Protective Services at (800) 252-5400 unless confident another agency is
reporting. Failure to report is a misdemeanor
BURNS (Au. RESPONDERS)
• Do not remove clothing from burn area if embedded
• Moist sterile dressing(s) if < 10% body surface area involved
• Dry sterile dressing(s) if >_ 10% body surface area involved
• Maintain body temperature (blankets, heaters, etc.)
• Albuterol 0.083% unit dose by nebulizer if wheezing or evidence of reactive airway
present (EMT -B)
CARDIAC ARREST — MULTI -SYSTEM TRAUMA
BLS (All Responders)
• Establish pulselessness and apnea
• Perform CPR for approximately 2 minutes unless multiple patient triage
• AED (if equipment available) (Responder authorized to use device)
• Continue CPR
CONDUCTED ENERGY WEAPONS (TASER®) (ALL RESPONDERS)
• Do not remove probes unless necessary for patient care
o Secure the wires and probes to the patient's body or clothing using tape
• Transport patient to the closest appropriate hospital for continued assessment and
treatment as needed
o Law enforcement policy may dictate that patient be transported if conducted
energy weapon was used. WCEMS will honor this policy if patient is in custody
of the law enforcement agency.
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BLS Version A Scope of Care
TRAUMA MANAGEMENT, SPECIFIC INTERVENTIONS - CONT.
CRYOTHERAPY (ALL RESPONDERS)
Cold pack(s) may be applied over an isolated injured area.
• Do not apply cold packs or ice directly on the skin's surface.
• Limit Cryotherapy to 20 minutes per hour.
• Reassess patient for hypothermia. Discontinue cryotherapy if hypothermia is suspected.
CRUSH INJURY
BLS (All Responders)
• Coordinate patient care with extrication team leader
• Provide supplemental oxygen by non-rebreather mask (if no increased risk of
fire/explosion)
• Maintain normal body temperature (prevent hypothermia)
• Maintain supine position if tolerated by patient
DEATH — OBVIOUS (EMT -B)
(Decapitation, Decomposition, Rigor Mortis, Livor Mortis, Hemisection, Injuries incompatible
with life, Mass Casualty Incident)
• Do not initiate CPR
• Contact law enforcement for JP
ELEVATION (ALL RESPONDERS)
Injured extremities (except in poisonous bites) should be elevated above the level of the heart if
there is no risk of further injury. If elevating the extremity compromises spinal alignment in the
spinal motion restricted patient, then do not elevate.
FACIAL TRAUMA AND EYE INJURIES (ALL RESPONDERS)
• Eye dressings should be bilateral
• Hard cover protection should be used if available
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TRAUMA MANAGEMENT, SPECIFIC INTERVENTIONS—<CONT.
HEAD INJURY WITH RESPIRATORY FAILURE/ARREST (Au. RESPONDERS)
• If severe injury is suspected based upon altered mental status and/or other findings,
Ventilate with BVM if possible
o Adult —10-12 breaths per minute
o Child and Infant — 12-20 breaths per minute
MUSCULOSKELETAL MOTION RESTRICTION (SPLINTING) (ECA, EMT -B)
All skeletal instability will be splinted as soon as possible, but only after the ABC interventions
are complete
• Distal circulation, motor function and sensation should be checked prior to splinting,
after splinting, during reassessment and after moving the patient (such as to the
stretcher, to the unit, etc.). .
To achieve and maintain musculoskeletal motion restriction any of the following may be utilized
as appropriate for the patient condition and situation:
• Patient's body (i.e. tying the legs together on a backboard where the non -injured leg
is secured to the backboard)
• Padded Board splints
• Pillow splints (i.e. In isolated ankle, foot or hand injuries
• Preformed or vacuum splints
• Traction splints — Traction used in closed or open midshaft femur fractures (provided
the bone end is not protruding from the open wound)
• Scoop (when spinal injury is not suspected)
SNAKE BITE
BLS (All Responders)
• Extremity at or below level of heart
• Motion restrict extremity with splint; Limit all patient activity
• ID snake if possible
• Coral snakes only - Apply mild pressure by wrapping elastic bandages (gauze) over
the bite and the entire arm or leg.
o Check distal pulses every 5 minutes
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TRAUMA MANAGEMENT, SPECIFIC INTERVENTIONS - CONT.
SPINAL MOTION RESTRICTION (ALL RESPONDERS)
Spinal motion restriction is necessary in any patient with the potential for spinal compromise.
The need for spinal motion restriction is based on mechanism of injury and patient presentation.
• Cervical motion restriction should be achieved manually immediately upon patient
contact, if mechanism of injury and patient presentation indicate the necessity.
• Manual cervical motion restriction should be maintained until mechanical spinal
motion restriction is completed.
Minimal spinal motion restriction will be achieved utilizing the following:
• Long Backboard
o C-collar — properly sized and placed
o Cervical Immobilization Device (CID) —after patient is secured to backboard
o Padding — As needed to restrict motion and provide patient comfort
o Straps — preferred arrangement includes two over the shoulder crossed at the
chest; two crossed at the hips; one across the thigh; and one across the tib-fib
Other considerations for spinal motion restriction:
• Do not secure the head of the patient prior to completely securing the torso.
• Athletic Helmet and Shoulder Pads — Helmet and shoulder pads should not be
removed from the injured athlete unless airway compromise is caused. If one of the
two pieces of equipment is removed, then the other piece must also be removed.
• Helmets without shoulder pads — Helmets used without shoulder pads should be
removed.
When available, the following spinal motion restriction devices may be utilized with discretion:
• KED — (Kendrick Extrication Device)
• Pediatric Devices
o Infant and child safety seats may be utilized for patient packaging if the device
has no visible damage and there is minimal concern for potential spinal injury.
o Removal of a pediatric patient from such a device into a pediatric unit, KED or
long backboard is always appropriate if the provider feels the risk in moving the
patient is outweighed by the potential inability of the safety seat to restrict spinal
motion
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BLS Version A Scope of Care
TRAUMA MANAGEMENT, SPECIFIC INTERVENTIONS - CONT.
WOUND CARE (ALL RESPONDERS)
• Control severe hemorrhage
• Wound cleansing with normal saline may be performed at the responder's discretion
only if hemorrhage is minor or controlled (clean water is acceptable if normal saline
is not available)
o Irrigation — Rinse out major contaminants
• Bandaging — Completely cover wounded area with sterile dressing and cover the
dressing with an appropriate bandage
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Equipment &
Supply Inventory
The equipment and supplies listed on the following pages are authorized
for use on all in-service Williamson County EMS First Responder Units
and Vehicles.
Stepheh Benold, M.D. — Medical Director
Williamson County Emergency Medical Services
Effective April 10, 2006 through January 31, 2008
The Williamson County EMS System
To Respect, Care & Serve
Equipment & Supply Inventory
1
Williamson County First Responder Organization
Minimum Equipment and Supply Inventory
The following is the minimum list of medications, supplies and specialized equipment,
which are carried by Williamson County First Responder Organizations.
Items that are carried on an apparatus can also be carried in a personal vehicle used to respond to
an emergency incident.
The medications on the above list may be supplied in concentrations or amounts other than those listed.
Regardless of the particular manner in which medications are supplied, equivalent total amounts must be present
It is the patient care provider's responsibility to be certain that correct dosages are administered to patients.
Unless specified otherwise, generics and brand name products are considered interchangeable. All medications
must be maintained at the manufactures recommended tempature range at all time.
BVM, Adult
BVM, Child
1
1
BVM, Infant
1
1
KY Jelly (Lubricant)
1
1
Nasal Cannula, Adult
1
1
Nebulizer Mask, Adult
1
1
Nebulizer Mask, Pedi
1
1
Non -Rebreather, Adult
Non -Rebreather, Pedi
1
1
1
1
NPA, 20f
1
1
NPA, 24f
1
1
NPA, 28f
NPA, 32f
1
1
1
1
OPA, 100mm
OPA, 40mm
1
1
1
1
OPA, 60mm
OPA, 80mm
1
1
1
1
Suction Device - Portable
1
1
fid'd•
1
Alcohol Prep Pads
Lancets, springy loaded
2
2
2
AED
1
Adult AED Pads
2
BP Cuff, Adult
BP Cuff, Child
1
1
BP Cuff, Infant
1
1
Glucometer
1
1
1
Glucometer Strips
1 bottle
OB Kit
1
Penlights
Pulse Ox Probe, Adult (Optional)
1
1
Pulse Ox Probe, Pedi ( Non -disposable) (Optional)
1
Pulse Oximeter (Optional)
1
Scissors
Stethoscope
1
1
1
1
1 of 2 BLS Inventory - Version A
Effective 02/01/04
Albuterol 0.083% solution
1 unit dose
1 unit dose
Aspirin - 81 mg tablets
1 bottle
1 bottle
Charcoal, Activated - 50 grams / 240 ml
100 GM
100 GM
EpiPen, Adult
1
1
EpiPen, Jr
1
1
Glucose Gel - 15 - 25 grams
2 tubes
2 tubes
Nitroglycerine spray / tabs - 0.4 mg / dose
1 bottle
1 bottle
Oxygen (Portable) with regulator
1
1
The medications on the above list may be supplied in concentrations or amounts other than those listed.
Regardless of the particular manner in which medications are supplied, equivalent total amounts must be present
It is the patient care provider's responsibility to be certain that correct dosages are administered to patients.
Unless specified otherwise, generics and brand name products are considered interchangeable. All medications
must be maintained at the manufactures recommended tempature range at all time.
BVM, Adult
BVM, Child
1
1
BVM, Infant
1
1
KY Jelly (Lubricant)
1
1
Nasal Cannula, Adult
1
1
Nebulizer Mask, Adult
1
1
Nebulizer Mask, Pedi
1
1
Non -Rebreather, Adult
Non -Rebreather, Pedi
1
1
1
1
NPA, 20f
1
1
NPA, 24f
1
1
NPA, 28f
NPA, 32f
1
1
1
1
OPA, 100mm
OPA, 40mm
1
1
1
1
OPA, 60mm
OPA, 80mm
1
1
1
1
Suction Device - Portable
1
1
fid'd•
1
Alcohol Prep Pads
Lancets, springy loaded
2
2
2
AED
1
Adult AED Pads
2
BP Cuff, Adult
BP Cuff, Child
1
1
BP Cuff, Infant
1
1
Glucometer
1
1
1
Glucometer Strips
1 bottle
OB Kit
1
Penlights
Pulse Ox Probe, Adult (Optional)
1
1
Pulse Ox Probe, Pedi ( Non -disposable) (Optional)
1
Pulse Oximeter (Optional)
1
Scissors
Stethoscope
1
1
1
1
1 of 2 BLS Inventory - Version A
Effective 02/01/04
S.lint, 12-18"
Cold Packs
Williamson County First Responder Organization
Minimum Equipment and Supply Inventory
H1RoOkiar0`;a
Backboard Stra . s, Dis. osable
C -Collar, Pedi - Adult Sizes
Head Blocks, Dis.. able
Lon. Back Boards
4x4 Sterile or Non-sterile . auze
Bandaids 1"
Conformin. Banda.e, 4" Sterile
S.lint, 30-42"
Sterile Irri.ation
Ta. - , 2"
Trauma Pad, 10"X30"
Trian.ular Banda .es
Blankets, Dis•osable
Biohazard ba.s
Sco.e of Care
en Wrench
Face Mask, N95 medium & la .e
Gloves L, Non -Latex
Gloves M, Non -Latex
Gloves S, Non -Latex
Gloves XL, Non -Latex
Gloves XXL, Non -Latex Pm if needed
Hand Sanitizer
Protective Glasses
pates.
us=Pri"
1
1 each size
1
1
ssonat V bkJe-'
10
5
1
3
2
2
2
1 roll
1
4
2
1
1
1
Appropriate size per
responder
1 unit
1 .•rres .•nder
10
5
1
3
1
4
1
1
1
Appropriate size per
responder
1 unit
1 .-rres.. der
It is understood that first responders may arrive on the scene of a call without all of the required equipment.
However, the expectation is that the required equipment will arrive on the scene during patient care with the
appropriate vehicle. The goal of Williamson County First Responders and EMS is to provide expeditious patient
care regardless of the constraints of equipment location.
2 of 2 BLS Inventory - Version A
Effective 02/01/04
Title: Three Tier Response Policy
Number: 205.18
Effective: July 21, 2006
Replaces: n/a
Purpose: To establish a policy for interpreting various tiers of emergency response,
understanding that all calls to the 911 center do not generate a wide scale
emergency response.
Scope: Includes all Round Rock Fire Department Suppression Personnel.
Policy: To create specific operation guidelines for emergency responses.
Definitions:
This policy has the definitions described within the procedure
Procedure
Hot Response (Single or Multiple Unit Response)
A hot response is a response by all responding units assigned to a call for those incidents
that involve immediate and / or potential life threatening situations, where a delay in
response may cause further harm to human life. This type of response requires:
1. All responding units will utilize all emergency warning devices
(audible/visual) at all times.
2. Drivers will operate with due regard for the safety of all persons; maintain
control of the vehicle at all times; obey all applicable motor vehicle laws for
emergency vehicle operation set fourth by Texas Transportation Code, in
addition to departmental and city policy.
3. All medical calls will be classified as a hot response, unless otherwise directed
by the dispatch center, shift commander or company officer.
Round Rock Fire Department
Standard Operating Procedure
Three Tier Response Policy 205.18
Effective: July 21, 2006
Page 2 of 5
Warm Response (Multiple Unit Response Only)
A warm response is for incidents that could pose an immediate and / or potential life
threatening situation. This type of response requires the first assigned unit to respond in
the following manner:
1. Utilize all emergency warning devices (audible/visual) at all times.
2. Drivers will operate with due regard for the safety of all persons; maintain
control of vehicle at all times; obey all applicable motor vehicle laws for
emergency vehicle operation set fourth by Texas Transportation Code, in
addition to departmental and city policy.
3. All other dispatched units shall respond cold (non -emergency) — during this
response, audible/visual are not utilized unless the first assigned unit, shift
commander or dispatcher receives further information that upgrades the
response. All other dispatched units arriving on scene will assume level 1
staging and await instructions from the incident commander.
Cold Response (Single or Multiple Unit Response)
A cold response is a non emergency response, not requiring the use of audible/visual
warning devices. This type of response requires that all assigned units respond in the
following manner:
1. All dispatched units will respond non emergency for the duration of the
response, unless other side directed by the first arriving unit, shift commander
and or dispatcher.
2. Drivers will operate with due regard for the safety of all persons, maintain
control of the vehicle at all times; obey all applicable motor vehicle laws for
emergency vehicle operation set fourth by the Texas Transportation Code, in
addition to departmental and city policy.
3. Later arriving units will assume level 1 staging and await instructions from the
incident commander.
Round Rock Fire Department
Standard Operating Procedure
Three Tier Response Policy 205.18
Effective: July 21, 2006
Page 3 of 5
Medical Call Response
Medical calls will be responded to HOT or Cold depending on the information obtained
from the caller and the status of available medic units. To further clarify, please use the
information below in making your response decision. Keep in mind to always trust your
gut instinct and if a call turns priority we can upgrade
and most likely be around the corner.
1. Your station is assigned a medic unit and they are in house and can be notified
prior to being dispatched by Williamson County.
2. You are aware of the location of the medic unit responding and discuss by
Nextel or radio transmission the medic unit time of arrival.
3. Information obtained from the caller that indicates non priority.
Fire Alarm Response Daytime
All fire alarms received in the daytime (0700 hrs-1700 hrs) by the dispatch center will
initiate a cold response by a single company. It is always appropriate to check by the
incident location, even if the proper code has been approved by the alarm company.
Fire Alarm Response Night
All fire alarms received after normal business hours (1700 hrs — 0700 Hrs) by the
dispatch center will initiate a warm response. If contact is made at the incident location,
the response can be scaled back. It is always appropriate to check by the incident
location, even if the proper code has been approved by the alarm company.
* * *Fire Officers are to utilize this matrix as a guideline in making the appropriate
response decision. The goal is to reduce response, when information is obtained that is
considered non-priority. Fire Officers do have discretionary authority and may use it at
the appropriate time.
Round Rock Fire Department
Standard Operating Procedure
Three Tier Response Policy 205.18
Effective: July 21, 2006
Page 4 of 5
Authority
From and after their effective date, procedures issued by the Round Rock Fire
Department shall be in full force and effect and shall set forth all of the rights and duties
of the employees of the Round Rock Fire Department with respect to the subject matter
thereof, and shall replace any and all previous procedures or understanding, whether
written or oral, relating thereto.
Larry Hodge
Fire Chief
Round Rock Fire Department
Standard Operating Procedure
Three Tier Response Policy — 205.18
Effective: July 21, 2006
Page 5 of 5
***Fire Officers are to use this matrix as a guideline in making the appropriate response decision. The goal is to reduce
Response, when information is obtained that is considered non priority. Please use your discretion.***
HOT RESPONSE
WARM RESPONSE
COLD RESPONSE
ACCIDENT MAJOR
X
ACCIDENT MINOR
X
ACCIDENT PIN IN
X
BOMB THREAT
X
CARBON MONOXIDE
X
DUMPSTER FIRE AWAY
FROM STRUCTURE
X
DUMPSTER FIRE NEAR
STRUCTURE
X
FIRE ALARM DAY
X
X
FIRE ALARM NIGHT
X
FIRE OTHER
X
FIRE STRUCTURE
X
FIRE VEHICLE
X
FLUID SPILL
X
NATURAL GAS INSIDE
X
NATURAL GAS OUTSIDE
X
GRASS FIRE
X
HAZ MAT
X
LINE DOWN
X
X
MEDICAL ASSIST
X
X
ODOR INV INSIDE
X
ODOR INV OUTSIDE
X
FIRE ORDINANCE
VIOLATION
X
PUBLIC SERVICE FD
X
SMOKE INV INSIDE
X
SMOKE INV OUTSIDE
X
SUBJECT DOWN
X
SUICIDE THREAT
X
VEHICLE UNLOCK
W/CHILD
X
X
HELICOPTER LANDING
X
ASSIST W/ EVACUATION
X
ASSIST W/ SEJSPICIOUS
PACKAGE
X
HI LIFE WATER FLOW
X
WATER FLOW ALARM
X
CONTROLLED BURN
X
CONFINED FIRE MANHOLE
X
CHEMICAL ODOR INSIDE
STRUCTURE
X
UNKNOWN MATERIAL
X
COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL
FIR}'.
X
APARTMENT FIRE
X
***Fire Officers are to use this matrix as a guideline in making the appropriate response decision. The goal is to reduce
Response, when information is obtained that is considered non priority. Please use your discretion.***
DATE: November 2, 2006
SUBJECT: City Council Meeting - November 9, 2006
ITEM: 11.B.1. Consider a resolution authorizing the Mayor to execute an
affiliation agreement between Williamson County Emergency
Medical Services (EMS) and the Round Rock Fire Department.
Department: Fire Department
Staff Person: Larry Hodge, Fire Chief
Justification:
Under provisions set forth in 25 Texas Administrative Code §157.14, a First Responder
Organization: (1) Routinely responds to emergency situations, (2) utilizes employees,
and/or members who are emergency medical service (EMS) certified by the Texas
Department of State Health Services (department), (3) provide on -scene patient care, and
(4) does not transport patients. Any organization which meet these descriptions, as does
the Round Rock Fire Department, must comply with the requirements outlined in 25 Texas
Administrative Code §157.14 including submission of an application for a license.
One requirement as set outlined in 25 Texas Administrative Code §157.14 requires that a
"written affiliation agreement with the primary licensed EMS provider..."(§157.14 (b)(1)(E))
be submitted with the First Responder Organization application for license.
Funding:
Cost: $70.00
Source of funds: General Funds
Outside Resources: N/A
Background Information:
The previous license and agreement expired January 31, 2006. The agreement has been
negotiated and has taken time to fully materialize. The current agreement and license
application will expire January 31, 2008.
Public Comment: N/A
EXECUTED
DOCUMENT
FOLLOWS
Williamson County Emergency Medical Services
To Respect, Care and Serve
This Agreement is entered into between Williamson County EMS ("EMS"), an EMS provider
currently licensed by the Department of State Health Services (DSHS), the medical director for
EMS. Dr. Stephen Benold, M.D. ("EMS Medical Director") and the Round Rock Fire
Department ("FRO"), a first responder organization registered by the DSHS. The parties agree
that this Agreement is intended to be pursuant to the provisions set forth in 25 Texas
Administrative Code §157.14(c). This Agreement shall become effective upon the final signature
of the parties and shall remain in effect until January 31, 2008.
EMS ambulances will; when resources are available, respond to all calls and transport patients
from within the Williamson County geographical area served by the FRO. FRO will, when
resources are available, respond to all life threatening EMS medical assist calls within the
geographical area served by the FRO. Patient treatment, protocols and medical equipment used
by either the FRO or EMS will be done according to the standards defined in the EMS Scope of
Care and approved by the EMS Medical Director, a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit
A and incorporated herein for all purposes ("EMS Scope of Care").
Response Code Policy
The FRO shall follow the response code policy established by the Round Rock Fire Department,
a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit B and incorporated herein for all purposes ("FRO
Response Policy").
Acsessrnent of Care
1. FRO First to Arrive
Upon arriving at a call, the FRO shall proceed to assess the patient's medical condition and
begin on -scene patient care until EMS arrives in accordance with the standards set forth in the
EMS Scope of Care.
2. EMS First to Arrive
EMS shall proceed to assess the patient's medical condition and begin on -scene patient care in
accordance with the standards set forth in the EMS Scope of Care. FRO shall provide
assistance when needed and requested.
Chain of Command
Or -scene chain of command will follow the National incident Management System (NIMS) with,
cenerally, the FRO providing the incident Commander and EMS providing the EMS Sector
Commander. Should the FRO provide the EMS Sector Commander, EMS shall provide
assistance when needed and requested. Law Enforcement personnel may assume the Incident
Commander role in the case of a crime scene.
R -010 -/I -Dc? 1181
P.O. Box 873
303 Martin Luther King Street
Georgetown, Texas 78627
Main: (512) 943-1264
Fax: (512) 943-1269
www.wilco.org
Ambulance Cancellation
1. The FRO will not cancel a responding EMS ambulance prior to its arrival on -scene. The
FRO may advise EMS through its dispatch that there is no obvious injury or illness and
the patient expresses he or she does not want EMS (e.g. did not call EMS and does not
want them) or that the situation found does not require an emergency response by EMS.
It shall be EMS' sole decision whether to continue to respond and to determine the
appropriate level of response. Should EMS decide not to respond, EMS shall request the
FRO to obtain a written refusal of medical care on a form approved by EMS Medical
Director. Once an EMS unit arrives or medical care has been initiated by EMS, all
decisions concerning patient transport and/or patient refusal of transport will be done by
EMS only.
Transport Decisions
Transport and destination of transport decisions will be determined according to the standards
defined in the current EMS Scope of Care. Air medical transport resources may be requested
and cancelled as deemed appropriate by the responding FRO or EMS unit as outlined in the
EMS Scope of Care.
FRO will not accompany the patient to the transport destination unless requested by EMS or for
education purposes and approved by EMS. EMS shall be in charge of patient treatment during
transport. Should EMS request the FRO to accompany the patient, EMS shall ensure that the
FRO is returned to their station. Where the FRO has accompanied for education purposes, EMS
shall make every attempt to return the FRO to their station, although there may be delays.
Patient Care Reports
The FRO shall report all responses in accordance with procedures established by law or
policies and procedures adopted by their Department.
Patient Confidentiality
The FRO will develop and comply with a patient confidentiality policy designed to secure all
patient records and information at all times and that is in accordance with all laws. The FRO will
also ensure the Organization and its members comply with the requirements of the Health
Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). The FRO's patient confidentiality policy
must also address a patient record release procedure.
System Credentials and Quality Improvement
■ The FRO system -credentialed responders must be authorized by the department to fully
participate in the Quality Improvement process as required by the Medical Director. This
process includes participation in in-person call reviews, documentation reviews and
continuing education. At a minimum, the FRO will meet all continuing education
requirements outlined in the Competency Based Training program. Responders must fully
participate to retain system credentialing. The FRO shall ensure all system -credentialed
responders maintain current certification or licensure at the appropriate level (at or above
the system credentialing level) and shall report to the Medical Director any disciplinary
actions imposed on a credentialed responder if the disciplinary action is associated with the
provision of medical care and negatively affects the credentialed responders' certification or
licensure.
The Williamson County EMS System
Page 2 of 4 July 11, 2006
FRO Identification
The FRO and EMS shall agree on the following:
• response availability days of the week & times of the day
• FRO's identification tag must meet the following requirements:
o Must have responder's photo
o Must have a credentialing date that coincides with the FRO's registration
date
o Indicates the responder's name, agency and state certification level
o Indicates the responder's system credentialing level using the following
color code. The color code is prominently placed on the ID tag as a
border or background.
• Red Border — responder credentialing at Paramedic level
• Blue/Red Border —responders credentialing at the Advanced
Provider level
• Blue Border —responder credentialing at the EMT level
• Green Border —responder credentialing at ECA level
• Black Border — responder credentialing at FR CPR/AED level
• No color Border — trained or untrained personnel who are not
credentialed to provide any patient care
• All responder's identification tags must be prominently displayed when interacting
with the patient and when patient care is being rendered, except when wearing
appropriate safety gear.
Other Requirements
In addition to the above, the FRO will also:
• ensure a copy of the current FRO registration is located on all apparatus/vehicles
responding to medical incidents. Copies of EMS Scope of Care and approved Medical
Equipment list shall be located at either the FRO's administrative offices or also provided on
the apparatus/vehicles responding to medical incidents.
Supplies and Equipment
EMS will not be responsible for supplying, maintaining, or retrieving FRO equipment or supplies,
except that EMS will replace supplies used by the FRO, on a one for one basis provided the
FRO does not bill the patient for these same items.
Responsibility and Liability
The FRO assumes any and all associated liability, if any, related to patient care rendered by
FRO personnel. EMS shall not be responsible for care rendered, training, accidents, injuries,
exposures or any liability involving FRO personnel, equipment, supplies or vehicles.
EMS assumes any and all associated liability, if any, related to patient care rendered by EMS
personnel. The FRO shall not be responsible for care rendered, training, accidents, injuries,
exposures or any liability involving EMS personnel, equipment, supplies or vehicles.
Party Disputes and Termination
In the event any discrepancies arise between EMS and FRO personnel relating to patient care
or transport, the respective Department Chiefs/Directors shall be advised. A meeting will be
The Williamson County EMS System Page 3 of 4 July 11, 2006
arranged for all personnel involved with the Medical Director (clinical issues) and/or the EMS
Director of Operations (operational issues). This will be done to prevent any problems from
creating animosity between departments, thus adversely affecting patient care. Any party may
cancel this Agreement upon sixty (60) days written notice.
The Round Rock Fire Department will function under the following EMS Scope of Care
(please check one).
errsion A (all medications carried by first out response apparatus or responders)
0 Version B (no medications other than oxygen are carried by any apparatus or responders)
City of Round R
Nyle Maxwell
(print name)
(signature)
Williamson County EMS:
Jeff Haves
(print name)
Williamson County E
Stephen Benold, M. D:
(print name) (signature)
Manor I) '0C1`040
(title) (date)
(date)
06
Medical Director (//4/06
(title) (date)
Director of Operations
(title)
WILLIAMSON COUNTY
SCOPE OF CARE
INTRODUCTION
CREDENTIAL LEVEL: ALL BLS RESPONDERS
VERSION A
EFFECTIVE APRIL 10, 2006 THROUGH JANUARY 31, 2008
The Williamson County EMS System Page 1
To Respect, Care & Serve
Scope of Care Intro
TABLE OF CONTENTS - BLS VER. A
TOPIC
INTRODUCTION SECTION
PAGE NO.
1
SCOPE OF CARE PURPOSE 4
SCOPE OF CARE CONCEPT 5
WCEMS MEDICAL DIRECTOR 6
PERSONNEL COVERED 7
DO NOT RESUSCITATE 8
ON-LINE MEDICAL CONTROL 9
ADULT & PEDIATRIC DEFINITIONS 10
CANCELLATION OF RESPONDING UNITS 11
REFUSAL OF TRANSPORT OR TREATMENT 12
GENERAL USE OF THE SCOPE OF CARE DOCUMENT 13
BLS SCOPE OF CARE SECTION 15
ADVANCED BLS SKILLS 16
AIRWAY & VENTILATORY MANAGEMENT 17
ASSESSMENT 18
BLOOD GLUCOSE MANAGEMENT 19
20
21
22
23
24
ACUTE CORONARY SYNDROMES 24
ALTERED MENTATION 24
ALLERGIC REACTION / ANAPHYLAXIS 24
BRADYCARDIA 24
CONVULSIONS 25
CPR - CARDIAC ARREST MEDICAL, ALL RHYTHMS 25
CROUP / EPIGLOTTITIS 26
HEAT EXHAUSTION 26
HYPERTHERMIA 26
HYPOTHERMIA 26
INGESTION POISONING 26
OBSTETRICAL EMERGENCIES 27
ORGANOPHOSPHATE POISONING 27
PULMONARY EDEMA- CARDIOGENIC 27
REACTIVE AIRWAY DISEASE 27
TRANSPORT 28
• TRAUMA TRANSPORT 28
• HELICOPTER TRANSPORT 28
CIRCULATORY SUPPORT
COMBATIVE PATIENT MANAGEMENT
NAUSEA & EMESIS MANAGEMENT
PAIN MANAGEMENT
SPECIFIC MEDICAL INTERVENTIONS
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
The Williamson County EMS System
Page 2 Scope of Care Intro
To Respect, Care & Serve
TABLE OF CONTENTS - BLS VER. A (CONTINUED
TOPIC PAGE NO.
TRAUMA MANAGEMENT, SPECIFIC INTERVENTIONS 29
• ABUSE - SUSPECTED 29
• BURNS 29
• CARDIAC ARREST - MULTI -SYSTEM TRAUMA 29
• CONDUCTED ENERGY WEAPONS (TASER®) 29
• CRYOTHERAPY 30
• CRUSH INJURY 30
• DEATH - OBVIOUS 30
• ELEVATION 30
• FACIAL TRAUMA AND EYE INJURIES 30
• HEAD INJURY WITH RESPIRATORY FAILURE/ARREST 31
• MUSCULOSKELETAL MOTION RESTRICTION (SPLINTING) 31
• SNAKEBITE 31
• SPINAL MOTION RESTRICTION 32
• WOUND CARE 33
REQUIRED EQUIPMENT LIST - BLS VER. A
The Williamson County EMS System Page 3
To Respect, Care & Serve
Scope of Care Intro
The Williamson County Emergency Medical Services Scope of Care is designed to clearly
define the scope of care expected by and for all persons within Williamson County. This scope
of care is founded in excellence, diligently maintained, continuously reevaluated and enhanced.
The Scope of Care is based on the most current, nationally accepted standards for out of
hospital emergency medical care. To the extent possible, the therapies identified in this Scope
of Care are based on valid, current clinical research and/or WCEMS clinical data.
Successful implementation of this Scope of Care requires providers dedicated to quality patient
care, appropriate medical equipment, administrative facilitation, continuing education, public
support and medical direction.
The Scope of Care defines the expected therapies for specific patients. The Scope of Care pre-
defines the limits of practice for a provider under the authorization of the Medical Director. Any
practice outside of these limits requires authorization at the time of performance by a licensed
physician or the responder's designated Medical Control.
The Williamson County EMS System
Page 4 Scope of Care Intro
To Respect, Care & Serve
Scope of care defines what diagnostic tools and interventions providers may utilize. The Scope
of Care defines the therapies identified as appropriate for specific patients. Discretion may be
used to omit specific therapies if deemed inappropriate for a specific patient. Therapies beyond
those listed in the Scope of Care require approval of other medical direction. The scope of care
varies with 1) certification level, 2) credentialing status, and 3) departmental approval by the
WCEMS Medical Director. Any reference to paramedic includes both certified and licensed
paramedics (WCEMS Paramedics and First Responder Paramedics).
Coordination of patient care under this scope of care must follow a specific medical chain of
command. All on -scene credentialed providers are encouraged to actively participate in patient
care. Final decisions regarding patient care are made as follows:
First Responders without On -Scene System -Credentialed Paramedics(P)
One person must be assigned to lead the patient care. All on -scene credentialed responders
are expected to be actively involved in the care of the patient. Questions arising regarding
medical decisions will ultimately be resolved by the first responder with the highest credentialing
level until the credentialed Paramedic (P) arrives on scene.
System -Credentialed Paramedics(P) On -Scene
One person must be assigned to lead the patient care. Both Credentialed Paramedics (P) will
both be actively involved in the care of the patient. Questions arising regarding medical
decisions will ultimately be resolved by the Credentialed Paramedic (P) leading the patient care
once he/she is on scene.
Conflicts regarding treatment modalities should not be discussed in front of patients. If a conflict
arises which might endanger the patient, the providers should discreetly discuss concerns to
ensure patient safety. When disagreement exists, the above described process for resolution
must be followed.
Discussion among the providers involved regarding the conflict should occur after patient care is
complete. Any concerns unresolved by discussion should be submitted in writing to the Medical
Director within three business days for evaluation and resolution. If an in person discussion is
required, the Clinical Practices Division will schedule a meeting with all involved providers. The
first responder organization may include their chain of command in the conflict resolution, but
this should not delay evaluation and resolution by the Medical Director.
The Williamson County EMS System Page 5
To Respect, Care & Serve
Scope of Care Intro
WILLIAMSON COUNTY EMS MEDICAL DIRECTOR
Medical direction for the Williamson County EMS System is provided by Stephen Benold, M.D..
His medical direction is provided through this scope of care, educational oversight, quality
assurance, quality improvement, administrative cooperation and regular interaction with the care
providers. It is recognized that his knowledge, dedication and license make it possible for the
EMS system to function.
By State of Texas Department of State Health Service Regulation and the
Texas Medical Practice Act, all emergency medical care is performed under the
auspices of the Medical Director. All privileges and rights are granted with the
requirement of maintaining all State, National and System Standards,
Certifications and Licenses, as appropriate. The Medical Director, or in his
absence his appointed physician designee, has the authority at any time to limit,
suspend or revoke System Credential to Practice.
Stephen Benold, M.D. — Medical Director
The Williamson County Emergency Medical Services System
Valid from April 10, 2006 through January 31, 2008
The Williamson County EMS System
Page 6 Scope of Care Intro
To Respect, Care & Serve
This scope of care is for use by Medical Director credentialed providers. These providers are
allowed to practice under his license according to the Delegated Practice Act.
This scope of care applies to the credentialing level of the on -scene provider. This authorization
to practice applies while the provider is functioning as a responder with a Williamson County
Registered First Responder Organization or Williamson County EMS. Personnel may not
operate beyond his/her credentialing level regardless of his/her personal state certification level.
Any WCEMS personnel responding with a first responder or fire agency must operate under that
agency's policies unless requested to provide advanced life support (ALS) by an on -scene
WCEMS paramedic. Any WCEMS paramedic, not responding for another agency, may operate
under this scope of care while off-duty in the state of Texas. Any advanced procedures shall be
performed only at the request of the on scene EMS agency. Williamson County First
Responders may practice under the BLS Williamson County Scope of Care when responding as
a responder for their first responder organization. Non -credentialed providers may be utilized
under the guidance of Williamson County credentialed providers.
Williamson County credentialed providers include the following:
• Paramedics (P) — Providers meeting all credentialing requirements for the Paramedic
level; May utilize all therapies included in the Scope of Care
• First Responder Paramedic (FRP) — Providers who respond as part of a Williamson
County registered first responder organization who have met all credentialing
requirements for the First Responder Paramedic level; May utilize all therapies
included in the Scope of Care identified by the FRP, FRAP, EMT -B, ECA, FR
notations.
• First Responder Advanced Provider (FRAP) — Providers who respond as part of a
Williamson County registered first responder organization who have met all
credentialing requirements for the First Responder Advanced Provider level; May
utilize all therapies included in the Scope of Care identified by the FRAP, EMT -B,
ECA, FR notations.
• First Responder EMT -B (EMT -B) — Providers certified at the EMT, EMT -1 or EMT -P
level AND meeting all credentialing requirements for the first responder BLS level;
May utilize all therapies delegated to the EMT, ECA and FR credentialing levels
• First Responder ECA (ECA) — Providers certified at the ECA level AND meeting all
credentialing requirements for the first responder BLS level; May utilize all therapies
delegated to the ECA or FR credentialing levels
• First Responders that are CPR/AED trained (FR) — Providers who are not certified at
any EMS level but who meet all credentialing requirements for the first responder
level; May utilize all therapies delegated to the FR credentialing level
The Williamson County EMS System
Page 7 Scope of Care Intro
To Respect, Care & Serve
A DNR order will be honored for any patient presenting the Department of State Health Services
(DSHS, formerly TDH) form that is complete or approved identification device. A photocopy or
fax copy of a Texas DNR may be honored. A device without a DNR form will be honored only if
it is an official Texas device.
As well, an original and complete DNR form from any state will be honored, with or without a
bracelet, necklace or other device. A device from another state cannot be honored without the
original and complete DNR form from that state.
A verbal order from the patient's personal physician on -scene will also be honored. Other
documents, such as an advanced directive or living will, should be honored. However, only a
valid DNR legally applies to pre -hospital providers.
If the form is valid and the patient is eligible (e.g. cardiac or respiratory arrest without any
exclusions listed below), Do Not:
• begin CPR
• transcutaneous cardiac pacing
• defibrillation
• advanced airway management
• artificial ventilation
DNR orders will NOT BE honored if there is any suspicion of suicide, homicide or other
unnatural death, or if the patient is pregnant. It is always acceptable to contact medical control
in the event the scene situation is unclear, or if conflict arises.
Document the form or device number on the patient care record.
The Williamson County EMS System
Page 8 Scope of Care Intro
To Respect, Care & Serve
The complexity of medicine and the nature of EMS guarantee patient conditions that cannot be
completely addressed by this scope of care. Therefore, authorization of on-line medical control
may be obtained to implement the needed interventions. In those situations, contacting on-line
medical control for direction is appropriate and encouraged. The on-line medical control for first
response agencies is the responding Paramedic unit, unless a licensed physician is on -scene.
On-line medical control for WCEMS Paramedics includes:
• the patient's physician,
• the emergency department's receiving physician,
• the base hospital emergency department's physician, or
• a licensed physician on -scene
Interventions preceded by "SUGGEST" indicate the need to contact on-line medical control and
receive authorization before proceeding with the intervention.
Physician assistance on -scene (e.g. not the patient's physician) can be an asset; however,
certain procedures must be followed for the safety of the patient. Appropriate identification
should be requested if the physician is unknown to the providers. The on -scene physician must
assume responsibility for the patient, accompany the patient to the hospital and sign the patient
care documentation. The physician name, address, and contact number should be documented
with the signature. If the on -scene physician refuses, this scope of care will be followed and the
physician's name should be documented if possible.
Base Hospital
Region
Hospital
North Region
Georgetown Hospital
South Region
Round Rock Medical Center
East Region
Johns Community Hospital
West Region
Round Rock Medical Center or
Georgetown Hospital
The Williamson County EMS System
Page 9 Scope of Care Intro
To Respect, Care & Serve
For this scope of care, adult and pediatric patients are defined as:
Neonatal — birth to one month
Infant - one month to one year of age
Child - one year to onset of puberty (approximately 12-14 years of age)
Adult — age greater than onset of puberty
The Williamson County EMS System
Page 10
To Respect, Care & Serve
Scope of Care Intro
Once EMS registered first responders and EMS ambulance units are dispatched, cancellation of
units will occur only as follows:
• First Responders
o May be cancelled by any on -scene provider credentialed at the EMT -B level or
greater following an initial patient/scene assessment
• EMS Ambulances
o May be cancelled by any on -scene provider credentialed at the EMT -B level or
greater if
• Authorized by the provider's organization, and
• No patient exists or no obvious injury/illness exists, and
• Patient does not want EMS or ambulance transport
o May be cancelled by any on -scene provider credentialed at the FRP level or
greater if:
• Authorized by the provider's organization, and
• Patient refuses transport or treatment, and
• Patient does not want EMS or ambulance transport, and
• Provider completes an approved patient care report for refusal of
transport/treatment
o May be cancelled by
• On scene Law Enforcement
• Communications (Dispatch) Center if Caller requests cancellation or new
information indicates EMS not needed (e.g. patient left scene)
• EMS Helicopters
o May be cancelled by any on -scene provider credentialed at the EMT -B level or
greater following an initial patient/scene assessment
o May be cancelled by responding WCEMS Paramedic Unit
The Williamson County EMS System
Page 11
To Respect, Care & Serve
Scope of Care Intro
REFUSAL OF TRANSPORT OR TREATMENT
All patients will be offered treatment and transport. Williamson County EMS does not deny
treatment or transport to any patient.
Patients, who in the judgment of the paramedic crew should be evaluated by a physician, may
occasionally refuse transport (against medical advice refusal — AMA refusal). In these cases,
every effort must be made to obtain consent for transport. If the patient continues to refuse
transport, the paramedic must:
• Contact the patient's primary care physician if applicable
or
• Contact on-line medical control at the region's base hospital
When contact is made with either of the above physicians, the assessment findings and
concerns should be quickly and clearly communicated. The Paramedic should speak to the
physician concerning the need for EMS transport. This serves as a medical consult in an effort
to identify any additional measures that might be used to obtain patient consent for
transport/treatment.
If the patient or responsible party continues to refuse EMS transport, the paramedic must
document the following:
• Name of physician contacted and direction provided
• Evaluation of the patient's capacity to refuse transport
• Efforts to offer treatment and transportation
• Other methods used to encourage EMS transport
• Consequences of transport refusal were explained to the patient &/or family
• Consequences of transport refusal were understood by the patient &/or family
• Patient was advised EMS will return if patient later desires transport
Any patient 17 years of age or younger may not consent to or refuse treatment, unless they
meet the legal qualifications of an emancipated minor. All such consent to or refusal of
treatment must be obtained from a parent, legal guardian (including law enforcement) or other
adult family member. In the absence of such consent to or refusal of treatment, the patient
should be treated under implied consent.
The Williamson County EMS System
Page 12 Scope of Care Intro
To Respect, Care & Serve
This Document applies to all responders while functioning as an emergency responder within
one of the Williamson County Registered First Responder Organizations or the Williamson
County EMS department.
Every Scope of Care item (protocol) listed in this document outlines the preferred interventions
to be performed by System Credentialed Responders. These interventions are listed in the
preferred order of use. In some cases, the interventions are intended to be performed
simultaneously. In other cases, one intervention must be completed before proceeding to the
next. Each intervention is available at the responder's discretion unless noted otherwise. When
the responder omits a listed intervention for which he/she is authorized to perform, the patient
care record must reflect the rationale for the omission. Along the same line, the responder must
document all requests for and authorizations for interventions not contained in this Scope of
Care document as well as all SUGGEST interventions.
Each intervention is accompanied by a notation designating the credentialing levels authorized
to perform the intervention. The notations used are: All Responders, FR, ECA, EMT -B, FRAP,
FRP, and P. Any intervention that is not accompanied by one of these notations is assumed to
be authorized for all levels of responders.
Each Responder Credentialing Level will be provided with the Scope of Care document
containing the interventions for his/her level only. The document will not discuss interventions
which are outside the scope or authorization for a specific responder credentialing level.
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BLS SCOPE OF CARE
Credential Level: BLS Version A
(FR, ECA, EMT -B)
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BLS Version A Scope of Care
PHARMACEUTICAL INTERVENTIONS
Medication usage will be done only according to the specific trauma or specific medical
intervention protocols.
• Prior to medication administration, all patients should be asked about allergies.
• All medications should be checked for name, concentration, expiration date,
discoloration, particulate matter and other signs of contamination.
• It is critical that a patient only be given the indicated drug at the appropriate dosage,
route, rate and interval.
The following pharmaceutical interventions are approved for use:
ECA, EMT -B
• Glucose Gel
• Oxygen
EMT -B
• Albuterol, nebulized
• ASA, oral
• Charcoal (Activated), oral
• Epi -pen / Epi -pen Jr. Autoinjector
• NTG, Sublingual
These medications may be used as listed in the specific trauma and specific medicine
intervention sections of this document.
No Responder may utilize an intervention, pharmaceutical or medical device:
• For which he/she is not trained, or
• Which is beyond the scope of his/her WCEMS Medical Director recognized training, or
• Which is not authorized by the WCEMS System Medical Director (not a part of the
responder's credentialing level)
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1
BLS (All Responders)
Airway management will be based on rapid, accurate assessment of the patient, with
interventions beginning as soon as the need is identified. (Refer to the Procedures section for
detailed airway assessment and management)
Initial airway management will always begin with any of the following basic life support
measures as indicated by patient presentation and based on available equipment:
• Head tilt/chin lift (if no C-spine precautions indicated or unable to use jaw thrust)
• Jaw thrust (if C-spine precautions indicated)
• Suction — oral pharyngeal and nare(s)
• Oral pharyngeal airway (OPA) insertion
• Nasal pharyngeal airway (NPA) insertion
The following oxygenation and ventilation procedures may be utilized as indicated by patient
presentation and based on available equipment:
• Non-rebreather attached to 02 at >10 LPM (ECA, EMT -B)
• Nasal cannula attached to 02 at 1-6 LPM (ECA, EMT -B)
• Bag valve mask without oxygen (authorized responders may add oxygen)
• Bag valve mask attached to 02 at 15-25 LPM (ECA, EMT -B)
• Nebulizer attached to 02 at 6-10 LPM (EMT -B)
The following assessment aids may also be used in addition to clinical signs:
• Pulse oximetry (if equipment available)
The following procedures may be used to assist ALS personnel if requested:
• Cricoid pressure
• Backward, Upward, Right Pressure (BURP)
Ongoing assessments are needed to assure continued efficacy of the interventions.
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BLS Version A Scope of Care
BLS (All Responders)
All patients will be assessed initially, with continuous reassessments done until the patient is
transferred to more definitive care. (The minimum standard for the assessment, which may be
modified based on individual circumstances, is outlined in the Procedures reference section).
When scene circumstances do not allow the responders to meet the following requirements, the
PCR must document reasons for the omissions.
• Vital Signs will be obtained and recorded as follows for all patients who are treated or
transported (not required for patients who are not treated or not assessed):
o approximately every 15 minutes during patient contact
o after each medication or advanced therapy
o approximately every 5 minutes during patient contact with a critically ill or injured
patient
• At a minimum, two (2) sets of Vital Signs will be obtained and will include: pulse rate,
respiration rate, and blood pressure (auscultated or palpated)
• As time permits and patient presentation suggests, vital signs should also include
oxygen saturation, blood glucose level, and temperature.
o Oxygen saturation is obtained in all patients with evidence of or a complaint of
respiratory difficulty
o Blood glucose level is obtained in all patients with altered mental status and
when abnormal glucose level is suspected.
The Williamson County EMS System Page 18
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BLS Version A Scope of Care
BLOOD GLUCOSE MANAGEMENT
BLS (ECA, EMT -B)
A conscious, hypoglycemic patient or adult patient with a blood glucose level Tess than 90 mg/di
may be treated with 15-25 gm oral glucose gel as needed, ONLY if the patient has the ability to
swallow and maintain his/her own airway without assistance
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Circulatory support will be based on a rapid, accurate assessment of the patient, with
interventions beginning when the need is identified.
BLS (All Responders)
The following circulatory support interventions may be utilized to establish/maintain a patient's
hemodynamic stability:
• Positioning (as appropriate)
o Trendelenburg position
o Supine
o Lateral recumbent, preferably left side (for non -trauma patients)
o Tilting backboard for pregnant or obese patients, preferably left side
• Adequate warmth based on patient comfort
• CPR (Current American Heart Association or equivalent guidelines)
• Defibrillation/AED for cardiac arrest patients only, when available
The BLS responder may obtain a blood sample for glucose check. However, BLS responders
are not authorized to collect or transfer blood (syringe and/or blood tube methods).
The following procedures may be used to assist ALS personnel if requested and trained to do
so:
• Setup saline lock for IV/IO application
• Setup IV/IO fluid bag(s) for infusion with / without extension set as specified
• Setup IV/IO medication bag(s) for infusion (lidocaine, dopamine, magnesium) on
micro tubing with / without extension set as specified.
• Do not perform IV/IO venipuncture
• Do not connect IV/IO medication bag or tubing to the patient's IV/IO
• Do not draw up or measure medications, adjust IV/IO flow rate or adjust dosing
Ongoing assessments are needed to assure continued efficacy of the interventions.
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COMBATIVE PATIENT MANAGEMENT
At times it may be necessary to restrain combative patients in order to prevent them from further
injuring themselves, bystanders or providers. The first step must be to identify the patient who
poses a significant threat to himself/herself or others.
BLS (All Responders)
The following procedures MUST be followed when restraining combative patients:
• Maintain a professional demeanor at all times.
• If possible, request that a Law Enforcement Officer initiate the restraint
• Check for and, if possible, provide treatment for underlying causes of combativeness
including:
o hypoglycemia
o hypoxia
o closed head injury
o substance abuse
• The preferred method of soft physical restraint by EMS involves use of triangular
bandages. Handcuffs should only be used when the Law Enforcement Officer
deems necessary.
o The officer must remain with the patient at all times.
o Do not allow patient's weight to rest on the handcuffs unless they are double
locked
o Confer with the LE officer to change to soft restraints (e.g. triangular bandages)
o All restraints must be able to be removed quickly
• Combative patients being transported MUST be restrained in the Supine position
o The preferred position is with legs and arms extended.
o If necessary to achieve initial restraint, the prone or semi-prone position may be
used ONLY until control of the patient is established.
o The prone or semi-prone position WILL NOT be used for an extended period of
time or anytime during transport
o No patient will be transported in the hogtied position.
• Administer oxygen by non-rebreather mask to ALL patients restrained due to
combativeness, delirium, or extreme excited state.
o No other devices will be used to cover the patient's mouth
• Monitor the oxygen saturation on all restrained patients
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BLS (ECA, EMT -B)
High flow oxygen administration can be helpful in combating nausea on the BLS level.
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Every reasonable effort should be made to control pain for the patient after life threatening
injuries or illnesses are treated
BLS (All Responders)
The primary methods available for trauma include gentle patient packaging, careful movement,
motion restriction, oxygen therapy and cryotherapy. These methods should be utilized at all
times (if appropriate).
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BLS Version A Scope of Care
ACUTE CORONARY SYNDROME (ADULT CARDIAC ISCHEMIA WITH / WITHOUT CHEST PAIN)
BLS
• Oxygen to maintain oxygen saturation greater than 90% (if no pulse ox available, use
NRB mask) (ECA, EMT -B)
• ASA 324 mg chew and swallow (EMT -B)
• NTG tablet/spray, may repeat every 5 minutes to a total of 3 doses if:
(EMT -B)
o SBP >_ 90 mmHg and
o No severe bradycardia or tachycardia, and
o No erectile dysfunction medication use within 48 hours
ALTERED MENTATION (ALL RESPONDERS)
• Assess for cause and treat per trauma or medical protocol
ALLERGIC REACTION / ANAPHYLAXIS
BLS (EMT -B1
If a systemic reaction with signs/symptoms of hypotension, severe dyspnea or airway
obstruction is present:
• Epi Auto -injection pen if patient > 70 lbs (32 kg)
o PEDI: Epi pediatric Auto -injection pen if pt 33 lbs -70 lbs (15 kg -32 kg)
• Albuterol 1 unit dose nebulized if wheezing is present
BRADYCARDIA (WITH SIGNS OF POOR PERFUSION)
• PEDI (with a pulse causing cardiorespiratory compromise)
BLS (ECA, EMT -B)
o Oxygen by NRB mask or ventilate with Bag Mask
• Continue if HR < 100
o If HR < 60 with continued poor perfusion, perform CPR
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CONVULSIONS
BLS (ECA, EMT -B)
• Protect patient from injury
• Oxygen NRB mask or ventilate with Bag mask
• Remove clothing to cool patient if febrile convulsions suspected
CPR - CARDIAC ARREST MEDICAL (ALL ARREST RHYTHMS)
BLS (All Responders)
• Open airway and assess breathing
• If not breathing give two breaths that make chest rise (no more than 2 attempts for
adults)
• Check pulse for up to 10 seconds. If no pulse, begin chest compressions
o Adult 1- or 2 -rescuer use ratio of 30 compressions to 2 breaths
o Infant & Child
• 1 -rescuer use ratio of 30 compressions to 2 breaths
• 2 -rescuer use ratio of 15 compressions to 2 breaths
o Push Hard, Push Fast (100/min) and Allow complete chest recoil
o Rotate person performing chest compressions every 2 minutes
• If arrest witnessed by responder, apply AED or Defibrillator immediately and prepare
to deliver a defibrillatory shock
o If not witnessed by responder but two minutes of EFFECTIVE CPR provided
prior to arrival of responder, may apply AED or Defibrillator
• Perform CPR for approximately 2 minutes (5 cycles) before applying AED
• AED (child > 1 year of age), if available
o Follow AED prompts
o Use Pediatric pads or child system if < 8 years of age
• Use Adult pads if pediatric pads are not available
• Continue until Paramedics take over patient care or patient begins to move
o Adult - ventilate at 10-12 breaths per minute (one every 5 to 6 seconds)
o Infant/Child — ventilate at 12-20 breaths per minute (one every 3 to 5 seconds)
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CROUP / EPIGLOTTITIS
BLS (All Responders)
• Interventions ONLY as tolerated
• If altered LOC or central cyanosis, positive pressure ventilation with BVM using 2
person technique (override pop-off valve if pediatric patient)
HEAT EXHAUSTION
BLS (All Responders)
• Water or 50% diluted sport drinks by mouth if no LOC change or nausea (if
available)
HYPERTHERMIA
BLS (All Responders)
• Cool patient rapidly if indicated
HYPOTHERMIA
BLS (ECA, EMT -B)
• Handle patient gently
• Remove wet clothing
• Oral glucose gel (not injectable glucose), 15-25 gm if able to control airway
INGESTION POISONING
BLS (All Responders)
• Contact Poison Control Center (PCC) 1-800-222-1222. PCC insists on one point of
contact only. The individual who makes the original contact must inform PCC when
a new provider takes over, in order to assure continuation of care
• Charcoal (Activated) if requested by PCC and no forceful administration required up
to 1 gm/kg by mouth to maximum of: (EMT -B)
o Adult: 100 gm
o Child: 50 gm
o Infant: consult medical control
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SPECIFIC MEDICAL INTERVENTIONS - CONT.
OBSTETRICAL EMERGENCIES
Abruptio Placenta & Placenta Previa
BLS (EMT -B)
• Treat for shock
Postpartum Hemorrhage
BLS (EMT -B)
• Massage upper abdomen over uterus (fundal massage)
• Have baby breast-feed if possible
Prolapsed Umbilical Cord
BLS (EMT -B)
• Place the mother in the supine knee -chest position as tolerated
• Provide oxygen by non-rebreather mask
• Place a gloved hand into vagina and gently lift infant's head to relieve pressure on
umbilical cord
ORGANOPHOSPHATE POISONING
(Pesticides — signs/symptoms: increased salivation, urination, defecation, gastric distress,
emesis and tear production)
BLS (All Responders)
• Protect responders
• Decontaminate patient
PULMONARY EDEMA - CARDIOGENIC
BLS (All Responders)
• Place patient upright if possible or semi -fowlers
• Positive Pressure Ventilation with BVM
• SUGGEST Albuterol 1 unit dose by nebulizer (EMT -B)
REACTIVE AIRWAY DISEASE
BLS (EMT -B)
• Albuterol 1 unit dose by nebulizer in the presence of wheezing
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TRAUMA TRANSPORT (ALL RESPONDERS)
Definitive treatment of any critical trauma is only possible in the hospital environment. In
recognition of this fact, transport is the most important intervention, after the ABCs are
managed. For critical trauma patients:
• Interventions done on -scene should focus on preparing the patient for transport.
• Advanced procedures should be done enroute to the hospital unless delays which
cannot be controlled are present
There are two primary sources of transport, although others may be used if needed and
available due to catastrophic conditions: Ground Transport and Helicopter Transport
HELICOPTER TRANSPORT (ALL RESPONDERS)
For any patient, air transport may be considered. The following guide the use of helicopter
transport:
• Reduction in transport time to a trauma center compared to ground transport for a
seriously injured trauma patient
• The patient meets criteria for transport to the closest trauma center and whose
condition will likely need immediate intervention not available in the pre -hospital setting
• The patient meets criteria for transport to the closest trauma center and whose
condition is stable provided the patient's condition requires the shortest out of hospital
time possible
• When air transport is considered, the helicopter should be requested immediately
based on initial call information
• Air transport should be cancelled immediately during patient contact once patient
assessment findings do not indicate its need
• Air transport may be cancelled by an on -scene EMT -B, FRAP, FRP or Paramedic
assuming medical command
• Air transport should never delay patient arrival at the hospital; The transport provider
should rarely wait at the scene for a helicopter when the critical trauma patient is ready
for ground transport
MAST helicopter may be requested, if no commercial service is available, with approval of the
on -duty EMS Shift Commander.
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TRAUMA MANAGEMENT, SPECIFIC INTERVENTIONS
ABUSE — SUSPECTED (ALL RESPONDERS)
• Treat traumatic injuries as described previously
• Report privately to next care provider responsible for patient
• Report to Protective Services at (800) 252-5400 unless confident another agency is
reporting. Failure to report is a misdemeanor
BURNS (ALL RESPONDERS)
• Do not remove clothing from burn area if embedded
• Moist sterile dressing(s) if < 10% body surface area involved
• Dry sterile dressing(s) if >_ 10% body surface area involved
• Maintain body temperature (blankets, heaters, etc.)
• Albuterol 0.083% unit dose by nebulizer if wheezing or evidence of reactive airway
present (EMT -B)
CARDIAC ARREST — MULTI -SYSTEM TRAUMA
BLS (All Responders)
• Establish pulselessness and apnea
• Perform CPR for approximately 2 minutes unless multiple patient triage
• AED (if equipment available) (Responder authorized to use device)
• Continue CPR
CONDUCTED ENERGY WEAPONS (TASER®) (ALL RESPONDERS)
• Do not remove probes unless necessary for patient care
o Secure the wires and probes to the patient's body or clothing using tape
• Transport patient to the closest appropriate hospital for continued assessment and
treatment as needed
o Law enforcement policy may dictate that patient be transported if conducted
energy weapon was used. WCEMS will honor this policy if patient is in custody
of the law enforcement agency.
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TRAUMA MANAGEMENT, SPECIFIC INTERVENTIONS CONT.
CRYOTHERAPY (ALL RESPONDERS)
Cold pack(s) may be applied over an isolated injured area.
• Do not apply cold packs or ice directly on the skin's surface.
• Limit Cryotherapy to 20 minutes per hour.
• Reassess patient for hypothermia. Discontinue cryotherapy if hypothermia is suspected.
CRUSH INJURY
BLS (All Responders)
• Coordinate patient care with extrication team leader
• Provide supplemental oxygen by non-rebreather mask (if no increased risk of
fire/explosion)
• Maintain normal body temperature (prevent hypothermia)
• Maintain supine position if tolerated by patient
DEATH — OBVIOUS (EMT -B)
(Decapitation, Decomposition, Rigor Mortis, Livor Mortis, Hemisection, Injuries incompatible
with life, Mass Casualty Incident)
• Do not initiate CPR
• Contact law enforcement for JP
ELEVATION (ALL RESPONDERS)
Injured extremities (except in poisonous bites) should be elevated above the level of the heart if
there is no risk of further injury. If elevating the extremity compromises spinal alignment in the
spinal motion restricted patient, then do not elevate.
FACIAL TRAUMA AND EYE INJURIES (ALL RESPONDERS)
• Eye dressings should be bilateral
• Hard cover protection should be used if available
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BLS Version A Scope of Care
TRAUMA MANAGEMENT, SPECIFIC INTERVENTIONS CONT.
HEAD INJURY WITH RESPIRATORY FAILURE/ARREST (Au. RESPONDERS)
• If severe injury is suspected based upon altered mental status and/or other findings,
Ventilate with BVM if possible
o Adult —10-12 breaths per minute
o Child and Infant —12-20 breaths per minute
MUSCULOSKELETAL MOTION RESTRICTION (SPLINTING) (ECA, EMT -B)
All skeletal instability will be splinted as soon as possible, but only after the ABC interventions
are complete
• Distal circulation, motor function and sensation should be checked prior to splinting,
after splinting, during reassessment and after moving the patient (such as to the
stretcher, to the unit, etc.). .
To achieve and maintain musculoskeletal motion restriction any of the following may be utilized
as appropriate for the patient condition and situation:
• Patient's body (i.e. tying the legs together on a backboard where the non -injured leg
is secured to the backboard)
• Padded Board splints
• Pillow splints (i.e. In isolated ankle, foot or hand injuries
• Preformed or vacuum splints
• Traction splints — Traction used in closed or open midshaft femur fractures (provided
the bone end is not protruding from the open wound)
• Scoop (when spinal injury is not suspected)
SNAKE BITE
BLS (All Responders)
• Extremity at or below level of heart
• Motion restrict extremity with splint; Limit all patient activity
• ID snake if possible
• Coral snakes only - Apply mild pressure by wrapping elastic bandages (gauze) over
the bite and the entire arm or leg.
o Check distal pulses every 5 minutes
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TRAUMA MANAGEMENT, SPECIFIC INTERVENTIONS - CONT.
SPINAL MOTION RESTRICTION (ALL RESPONDERS)
Spinal motion restriction is necessary in any patient with the potential for spinal compromise.
The need for spinal motion restriction is based on mechanism of injury and patient presentation.
• Cervical motion restriction should be achieved manually immediately upon patient
contact, if mechanism of injury and patient presentation indicate the necessity.
• Manual cervical motion restriction should be maintained until mechanical spinal
motion restriction is completed.
Minimal spinal motion restriction will be achieved utilizing the following:
• Long Backboard
o C-collar — properly sized and placed
o Cervical Immobilization Device (CID) —after patient is secured to backboard
o Padding — As needed to restrict motion and provide patient comfort
o Straps — preferred arrangement includes two over the shoulder crossed at the
chest; two crossed at the hips; one across the thigh; and one across the tib-fib
Other considerations for spinal motion restriction:
• Do not secure the head of the patient prior to completely securing the torso.
• Athletic Helmet and Shoulder Pads — Helmet and shoulder pads should not be
removed from the injured athlete unless airway compromise is caused. If one of the
two pieces of equipment is removed, then the other piece must also be removed.
• Helmets without shoulder pads — Helmets used without shoulder pads should be
removed.
When available, the following spinal motion restriction devices may be utilized with discretion:
• KED — (Kendrick Extrication Device)
• Pediatric Devices
o Infant and child safety seats may be utilized for patient packaging if the device
has no visible damage and there is minimal concern for potential spinal injury.
o Removal of a pediatric patient from such a device into a pediatric unit, KED or
long backboard is always appropriate if the provider feels the risk in moving the
patient is outweighed by the potential inability of the safety seat to restrict spinal
motion
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TRAUMA MANAGEMENT, SPECIFIC INTERVENTIONS - CONT.
WOUND CARE (ALL RESPONDERS)
• Control severe hemorrhage
• Wound cleansing with normal saline may be performed at the responder's discretion
only if hemorrhage is minor or controlled (clean water is acceptable if normal saline
is not available)
o Irrigation — Rinse out major contaminants
• Bandaging — Completely cover wounded area with sterile dressing and cover the
dressing with an appropriate bandage
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Equipment &
Supply Inventory
The equipment and supplies listed on the following pages are authorized
for use on all in-service Williamson County EMS First Responder Units
and Vehicles.
F.4kiJ,A)
Stephen Benold, M.D. — Medical Director
Williamson County Emergency Medical Services
Effective April 10, 2006 through January 31, 2008
The Williamson County EMS System
To Respect, Care & Serve
Equipment & Supply Inventory
Williamson County First Responder Organization
Minimum Equipment and Supply Inventory
The following is the minimum list of medications, supplies and specialized equipment,
which are carried by Williamson County First Responder Organizations.
Items that are carried on an apparatus can also be carried in a personal vehicle used to respond to
an emergency incident.
Effective 02/01/04
1 of 2 BLS Inventory - Version A
'4,1' Pastat"uPtiarl+
xs %il lte
Albuterol - 0.083% solution
1 unit dose
1 unit dose
Aspirin - 81 mg tablets
1 bottle
1 bottle
Charcoal, Activated - 50 grams / 240 ml
100 GM
100 GM
EpiPen, Adult
1
1
EpiPen, Jr
1
1
Glucose Gel - 15 - 25 grams
2 tubes
2 tubes
Nitroglycerine spray / tabs - 0.4 mg / dose
1 bottle
1 bottle
Oxygen (Portable) with regulator
1
1
The medications on the above list may be supplied in concentrations or amounts other than those listed.
Regardless of the particular manner in which medications are supplied, equivalent total amounts must be present
It is the patient care providers responsibility to be certain that correct dosages are administered to patients.
Unless specified otherwise, generics and brand name products are considered interchangeable. All medications
must be maintained at the manufactures recommended tempature range at all time.
� ,:`�, _,,,�i�rt�i`:Manageretertt ,,,-
� ;, e "'..
_._.'�•
BVM, Adult
1
1
BVM, Child
1
1
BVM, Infant
1
1
KY Jelly (Lubricant)
1
1
Nasal Cannula, Adult
1
1
Nebulizer Mask, Adult
1
1
Nebulizer Mask, Pedi
1
1
Non -Rebreather, Adult
1
1
Non -Rebreather, Pedi
1
1
NPA, 20f
1
1
NPA, 24f
1
1
NPA, 28f
1
1
NPA, 32f
1
1
OPA, 100mm
1
1
OPA, 40mm
1
1
OPA, 60mm
1
1
OPA, 80mm
1
1
Suction Device - Portable
1
Me „ _...._ - `nom
Alcohol Prep Pads
2
2
Lancets, spnnq loaded
2
AED
1
Adult AED Pads
2
UtU{KNlli it.
BP Cuff, Adult
1
1
BP Cuff, Child
1
1
BP Cuff, Infant
1
1
Glucometer
1
Glucometer Strips
1 bottle
OB Kit
1
Penlights
1
1
Pulse Ox Probe, Adult (Optional)
1
Pulse Ox Probe, Pedi ( Non -disposable) (Optional)
1
Pulse Oximeter (Optional)
1
Scissors
1
1
Stethoscope
1
1
Effective 02/01/04
1 of 2 BLS Inventory - Version A
Williamson County First Responder Organization
Minimum Equipment and Supply Inventory
Sir VI' sfioit'ReatnCtron , ,
►pparaWs- Pnmaty '
r,ROOPerionat Vetiiete - ;7
Backboard Straps, Disposable
1
C -Collar, Pedi - Adult Sizes
1 each size
Head Blocks, Disposable
1
Long Back Boards
1
ktS{itttitin9
fir.
4x4 Sterile or Non-sterile gauze
10
10
Bandaids 1"
5
5
Cold Packs
1
1
Conforming Bandage, 4" Sterile
3
3
Splint, 12-1&
2
Splint, 30-42"
2
Sterile Irrigation
2
Tape, 2"
1 rot
Trauma Pad, 10"X30"
1
1
Tnanwlar Bandages
4
4
Blankets, Disposable
• 2
Biohazard bags
1
1
Scope of Care
1
1
Oxygen Wrench
1
1
Face Mask, N95 (medium & large)
Appropriate size per
responder
Appropriate size per
responder
Gloves L, Non -Latex
Gloves M, Non -Latex
Gloves S, Non -Latex
Gloves XL, Non -Latex
Gloves XXL, Non -Latex (Pm if needed)
Hand Sanitizer
1 unit
1 unit
Protective Glasses
1 per responder
1 per responder
It is understood that first responders may arrive on the scene of a call without all of the required equipment.
However, the expectation is that the required equipment will arrive on the scene during patient care with the
appropriate vehicle. The goal of Williamson County First Responders and EMS is to provide expeditious patient
care regardless of the constraints of equipment location.
Effective 02/01/04
2 of 2 BLS Inventory - Version A
Title: Three Tier Response Policy
Number: 205.18
Effective: July 21, 2006
Replaces: n/a
Purpose: To establish a policy for interpreting various tiers of emergency response,
understanding that all calls to the 911 center do not generate a wide scale
emergency response.
Scope: Includes all Round Rock Fire Department Suppression Personnel.
Policy: To create specific operation guidelines for emergency responses.
Definitions:
This policy has the definitions described within the procedure
Procedure
Hot Response (Single or Multiple Unit Response)
A hot response is a response by all responding units assigned to a call for those incidents
that involve immediate and / or potential life threatening situations, where a delay in
response may cause further harm to human life. This type of response requires:
1. All responding units will utilize all emergency warning devices
(audible/visual) at all times.
2. Drivers will operate with due regard for the safety of all persons; maintain
control of the vehicle at all times; obey all applicable motor vehicle laws for
emergency vehicle operation set fourth by Texas Transportation Code, in
addition to departmental and city policy.
3. All medical calls will be classified as a hot response, unless otherwise directed
by the dispatch center, shift commander or company officer.
Eldl 4•
d�T l�
Round Rock Fire Department
Standard Operating Procedure
Three Tier Response Policy 205.18
Effective: July 21, 2006
Page 2 of 5
Warm Response (Multiple Unit Response Onlv)
A warm response is for incidents that could pose an immediate and / or potential life
threatening situation. This type of response requires the first assigned unit to respond in
the following manner:
1. Utilize all emergency warning devices (audible/visual) at all times.
2. Drivers will operate with due regard for the safety of all persons; maintain
control of vehicle at all times; obey all applicable motor vehicle laws for
emergency vehicle operation set fourth by Texas Transportation Code, in
addition to departmental and city policy.
3. All other dispatched units shall respond cold (non -emergency) — during this
response, audible/visual are not utilized unless the first assigned unit, shift
commander or dispatcher receives further information that upgrades the
response. All other dispatched units arriving on scene will assume level 1
staging and await instructions from the incident commander.
Cold Response (Single or Multiple Unit Response)
A cold response is a non emergency response, not requiring the use of audible/visual
warning devices. This type of response requires that all assigned units respond in the
following manner:
1. All dispatched units will respond non emergency for the duration of the
response, unless other side directed by the first arriving unit, shift commander
and or dispatcher.
2. Drivers will operate with due regard for the safety of all persons, maintain
control of the vehicle at all times; obey all applicable motor vehicle laws for
emergency vehicle operation set fourth by the Texas Transportation Code, in
addition to departmental and city policy.
3. Later arriving units will assume level 1 staging and await instructions from the
incident commander.
Round Rock Fire Department
Standard Operating Procedure
Three Tier Response Policy 205.18
Effective: July 21, 2006
Page 3 of 5
Medical Call Response
Medical calls will be responded to HOT or Cold depending on the information obtained
from the caller and the status of available medic units. To further clarify, please use the
information below in making your response decision. Keep in mind to always trust your
gut instinct and if a call turns priority we can upgrade
and most likely be around the corner.
1. Your station is assigned a medic unit and they are in house and can be notified
prior to being dispatched by Williamson County.
2. You are aware of the location of the medic unit responding and discuss by
Nextel or radio transmission the medic unit time of arrival.
3. Information obtained from the caller that indicates non priority.
Fire Alarm Response Daytime
All fire alarms received in the daytime (0700 hrs-1700 hrs) by the dispatch center will
initiate a cold response by a single company. It is always appropriate to check by the
incident location, even if the proper code has been approved by the alarm company.
Fire Alarm Response Night
All fire alarms received after normal business hours (1700 hrs — 0700 Hrs) by the
dispatch center will initiate a warm response. If contact is made at the incident location,
the response can be scaled back. It is always appropriate to check by the incident
location, even if the proper code has been approved by the alarm company.
***Fire Officers are to utilize this matrix as a guideline in making the appropriate
response decision. The goal is to reduce response, when information is obtained that is
considered non-priority. Fire Officers do have discretionary authority and may use it at
the appropriate time. * * *
Round Rock Fire Department
Standard Operating Procedure
Three Tier Response Policy 205.18
Effective: July 21, 2006
Page 4 of 5
Authority
From and after their effective date, procedures issued by the Round Rock Fire
Department shall be in full force and effect and shall set forth all of the rights and duties
of the employees of the Round Rock Fire Department with respect to the subject matter
thereof, and shall replace any and all previous procedures or understanding, whether
written or oral, relating thereto.
Larry Hodge
Fire Chief
Round Rock Fire Department
Standard Operating Procedure
Three Tier Response Policy — 205.18
Effective: July 21, 2006
Pa 5 of 5
***Fire Officers are to use this matrix as a guideline in making the appropriate response decision. The goal is to reduce
Response, when information is obtained that is considered non priority. Please use your discretion.***
HOT RESPONSE
)sil
COLD RESPONSE
ACCIDENT MAJOR
X
ACCIDENT MINOR
X
ACCIDENT PIN IN
X
BOMB THREAT
X
CARBON MONOXIDE
X
DUMPSTER FIRE AWAY
FROM STRUCTURE
X
1)1 Air., i l k !IRI. AIAR
S1121('T11RI
X
FIRE ALARM DAY
X
X
FIRE ALARM NIGHT
X
FIRE OTHER
X
FIRE STRUCTURE
X
FIRE VEHICLE
X
FLUID SPILL
X
NATURAL GAS INSIDE
X
NATURAL GAS OUTSIDE
X
GRASS FIRE
X
HAZ MAT
X
LINE DOWN
X
X
MEDICAL ASSIST
X
X
ODOR INV INSIDE
X
ODOR INV OUTSIDE
X
FIRE ORDINANCE
VIOLATION
X
PUBLIC SERVICE FD
X
SMOKE INV INSIDE
X
SMOKE INV OUTSIDE
X
SUBJECT DOWN
X
SUICIDE THREAT
X
VEHICLE UNLOCK
W/CHILD
X
X
II! 11(( I'lI R I _A\DI\(i
X
\SSI'! \\ I V:1t. 1 ,A"l I0\
X
\SSIS 1 \V ' SI' ,I'll 1()U
1'1(k:A(i l
X
111 LIII[ \\ \ IRIIOW
X
\\ 11 R 11 (A\ :AI \10.1
X
(0\ I ROLI.I:1) 111,R\
X
1 (1\1:1\11) 1 1RI: M\NI101 1
X
(III\11( \I ODOR INS11)I'
SIRI (11 RI
X
I \K\OW\ \1A 11 RI:A1
X
( ()\1\1I R(l.A1 iti01 RI \I
11121_
X
AI, :\R I \1I \1 1 IR!.
X
***Fire Officers are to use this matrix as a guideline in making the appropriate response decision. The goal is to reduce
Response, when information is obtained that is considered non priority. Please use your discretion.***