Patient Assist

For all falls or patient assist calls the following protocol guidelines are to be followed and documented:

Manual Vitals	Assess AVPU/GCS and compare to normal baseline if possible. Tachycardia (HR>100) or relative hypotension (SBP<110) is concerning for sepsis. Assess skin color, condition, and temp. Assess blood sugar level. Perform second set of vitals after movement
Events leading to fall or patient assist	Any new symptoms? Generalized weakness? Poor appetite? Shortness of breath? Syncope? Any LOC? Assess living conditions, trip hazards, etc.
Medications	Any new medications? Blood thinners? Anti-platelet agents? Proper dose taken for the day? Compliant with prescribed medications?
Assessment (Including Stroke)	Head-to-toe assessment - not just for trauma but for medical illness such as stroke, CHF, acute MI, or infection
Walk	ALWAYS determine if able to ambulate at baseline prior to refusal. If possible confer with family, caretaker, spouse on scene.
...and document what you find! Be sure to include the information gathered into your report.	Involve family and caregivers Be specific about your concerns when discussing refusal. Always advocate in the patients' best interest If necessary and applicable refer the patient to local community paramedicince programs.