PMD - Paramedic
CCP - Critical Care Paramedic
NRP - Nationally Certified Paramedic or Neonatal Resuscitation Program
NREMT - National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians
IAFCCP - International Association of Flight and Critical Care Paramedics
ASTNA - Air and Surface Transport Nurses...
Here is the NEXUS study, as published in the New England Journal Of Medicine in 2000. It specifically list, "a normal level of alertness" as what is required when it comes to satisfying the patient mentation portion during the implementation of the "Decision Instrument"...
The 2002 Maine EMS Spine Assessment Protocol, on page 6. This is the closest thing I have found to what I am looking for. But I would still like to actually find something from the actual NEXUS study itself...
I believe most ems providers are aware of the NEXUS criteria. Now looking at the criteria, the presence of an altered mental status -or- inability to communicate -or- intoxication, is listed as indicators for spinal immobilization.
With that said, to my knowledge, I am under the impression...
If a pt complained of chest pain/dizziness/xyz anginal equvlent, passed out hit head on ground. Then had a seizure, I will do a 12-lead.
It also could be used to look for possible electrolyte abnormalities causing the seizure.
Just like individual states currently licensing their own paramedics, individual states are developing their own Critical Care Paramedic Licenses/Endorsements.
So far I know of:
Wisconsin
Kentucky
Tennessee
Colorado - Being crafted as we speak! Going to use the FP-C/CCP-C as the...
If anyone has any stories they want to share about vent. transports, and problems encountered during the course of transport, post up and lets hear about it.
Malfunctons? Vent. Setting Problems? Known limits/issues of particular vents?
This has only been posted for just over 3 hours and look, we already have 6 votes in the affirmative, with 0 opposing it.
This is an excellent idea. :)
And then eventually, I think it needs to be moved to the front page, listed directly under "ALS".
It's is precisely because nausea/vomiting can be an anginal equivelent is the reason why most, but not all N/V Pt.s need a 12-lead.
If I give you morphine for pain management and you feel nauseated afterward, a 12-lead is of no benefit.