The Pediatric Chain of Survival

Prevention - Early CPR - Early Activation of EMS - Early ALS

EARLY ACTIVATION OF EMS

Early activation of Emergency Medical Service is one of the most critical elements of the pediatric chain of survival. It there is more then one bystander or rescuer the call should be made immediately upon recognition of a potential life threatening problem. It is preferable that the call be made from a grounded line as opposed to cellular phone, if the option is available. Many cities have an enhanced 911 system that enables the dispatch center to trace the location of the call almost immediately when a connection is made. Cellular service quality varies by service provider and location and should be used if there is no other alternative to activating the EMS system.

When asking someone to make the emergency call for you, you will need to verify that the call is made and ensure that help is on the way. Have the person come back and tell you that EMS has been called. If you are the caller, speak slowly, and clearly so that the dispatcher can understand what exactly the emergency is. In some cases when there is a high call volume or disaster has taken placed, there may be a busy signal or a caller can be put on hold. If it is a busy signal you will need to hang up and call back. If placed on hold, it is best to wait until a dispatcher is ready to take your call. Most of the time a dispatcher is available to take the call without any problems. However, it is important to understand that these problems can and do occur.

Dispatchers are training to ask questions in a way that helps them to determine what the priority is and decide what resources are needed. Depending on the region where the call is made, the fire department may respond to medical emergencies. This would account for a fire truck showing up instead of an ambulance. Most metropolitan cities where the fire department responds to medical calls, engines and trucks are staffed with paramedics and the appropriate equipment to provide immediate care as need. Remember in medical emergencies the closest available unit is what is needed. This could be a fire truck with a hundred foot ladder on it. However, the experience of the providers and the equipment and medications is what is needed and being made available.

Dispatchers generally ask a lot of questions. The call will run smoother if the caller expresses what kind of emergency they have, and then let the dispatcher ask the questions from that point on. Taking a basic level CPR or First Aid class can help the community with understanding and recognizing emergencies and accessing emergency services.

Michael Morales EMT-Paramedic

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• Pediatric Chain or Survival: Prevention
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• Pediatric Chain or Survival: Early Activation of EMS
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