View source for Memo - Response to Physician's Offices

==Response to Physician's Offices==
2009-10-14

When a physician has determined that a patient needs to go to the hospital, it is not up to EMS to change that determination.

*Do NOT ask the patient if they want to go to the hospital
*If the patient asks you if they have to go:
**Answer '''YES''' if you are sure.
**Leave the room and talk to the physician privately if you are not sure that the patient has an emergency medical condition
**You can only take a patient against their will if the patient meets [[Florida Statutes|Incapacitated Patient]] status as defined by Florida Law
*You must obtain a reasonable history and supporting documentation - if time permits
**Obtain a detailed report on the patient - if not available, document why.
**Take vital signs
**You DO NOT have to repeat an EKG if you can obtain a copy of one done prior to arrival.  If it is abnormal, monitor the patient and obtain a repeat EKG enroute.
**Obtain a complete medication history including dose, frequency, and time of last administration.
*Be abundantly cautious during the transfer of care - at the office and at the ER.  Be thorough.
*If you have problems obtaining the information needed:
**Do your best.
**Do not "have words" with the office staff.
**Be absolutely professional.
**Give the run information to Q.A. (LyWayne) via the chain of command and I will discuss the problem with the physician, personally, and advised you of the results.
*Nothing will improve if all we show is attitude . . . I cannot do anything if we have been unprofessional.