FREE Paramedics Exam EMS Communications Question and Answers
When a medical emergency arises, who is in charge of allocating emergency medical resources?
The emergency medical dispatcher (EMD) is responsible for assigning emergency medical resources to a medical emergency. EMDs play a critical role in emergency medical services (EMS) communications by receiving and processing emergency calls, providing pre-arrival instructions, and dispatching appropriate resources to the scene. They gather information about the nature of the emergency, assess the severity of the situation, and allocate the necessary medical resources based on protocols and guidelines. The EMD works closely with EMS personnel, such as paramedics and emergency medical technicians, to ensure an appropriate and timely response to medical emergencies.
What term best reflects the method of combining all accessible frequencies and employing them according to first come, first serve?
The term that describes the practice of pooling all available frequencies together and using them on a first come first serve basis is "trunking." Trunking is a method used in communication systems, such as two-way radio systems, to efficiently manage and share a limited number of frequencies among multiple users or groups. Instead of assigning specific frequencies to individual users or channels, trunking systems dynamically allocate frequencies as needed, allowing users to access an available frequency on a first come first serve basis. This helps optimize frequency utilization and improve overall system capacity.
What action does a typical EMS response take as soon as an accident is detected?
In a typical EMS (Emergency Medical Services) response, the step that occurs immediately after an accident is detected is "Notification and Response." This step involves quickly notifying the appropriate emergency medical services and responders about the accident so that they can initiate a timely and coordinated response to provide necessary medical assistance to those involved.
Which is not required to be communicated to the medical control doctor in an emergency situation?
The exact location of the incident is an essential element that needs to be relayed to the medical control physician during an emergency situation. Providing the precise location helps ensure that the appropriate emergency responders can be dispatched quickly to the scene, and the necessary resources can be directed to the right place. Accurate location information is crucial for efficient and timely emergency response.
Which form of transmission allows for simultaneous transmission and reception?
The method of transmission that has both transmission and reception on the same frequency is called simplex communication. In simplex communication, communication can only occur in one direction at a time. This means that when one party is transmitting a message, the other party can only receive it, and vice versa. Simplex communication is commonly used in applications where two-way communication is not necessary or practical, such as certain radio systems or public address systems.
What is a gadget that receives a low-power portable radio transmission on one frequency and sends it out again on a different frequency with a larger power?
The device that receives a transmission from a low-power portable radio on one frequency and re-transmits it at a higher power on another frequency is called a repeater. Repeaters are commonly used in radio communications to extend the range and coverage of radio signals. They receive weak signals from portable radios operating on one frequency and then amplify and re-transmit those signals on a different frequency with higher power. This allows for improved signal strength and greater coverage, especially in areas with obstacles or long distances that may hinder direct communication between portable radios. Repeaters are commonly used in various industries, including public safety, emergency services, amateur radio, and commercial radio systems.
What steps are involved in sending physiological data over a distance?
The process of transmitting physiological data over a distance is known as biotelemetry. Biotelemetry is a technology that enables the remote monitoring and transmission of physiological information from living beings, such as humans or animals, to a distant location where the data can be analyzed and monitored in real-time or stored for later analysis.
How much telemetry can you typically broadcast when transmitting en route?
When transmitting telemetry en route, the typical recommended duration is around 15 to 20 seconds. This duration provides enough data for medical professionals to assess the patient's cardiac rhythm and make initial treatment decisions. Transmitting telemetry data en route allows for ongoing monitoring of the patient's condition and can help guide the medical team at the receiving hospital in preparing for the patient's arrival and ensuring appropriate interventions upon arrival. However, it's important to note that specific telemetry duration requirements may vary based on the patient's condition, the protocols of the EMS system, and the preferences of the receiving hospital. It is best to follow the guidelines and protocols established by the EMS system and consult with medical control or receiving facility for specific recommendations.
What information must a caller give the dispatcher first?
The first thing the dispatcher needs to get from a caller during an emergency call is indeed the caller's name and call-back number. This information is essential for record-keeping, communication purposes, and possible follow-up if needed. Having the caller's name and contact information allows the dispatcher to maintain communication with the caller in case the call gets disconnected and enables them to gather additional details about the emergency situation if necessary. After obtaining the caller's name and call-back number, the dispatcher will then proceed to gather other important details, including the nature of the event, the condition of the patient(s), and the exact location of the incident, among other relevant information.
How long should you wait to start speaking after pressing the transmit button?
When using two-way radio communication, it is generally recommended to wait for about 1 second after pressing the transmit button before beginning to speak. This brief pause is often referred to as the "transmit delay" or "push-to-talk delay."
If the paramedic receives improper directions, what should they do?
If a paramedic is given inappropriate orders, it is essential for them to question those orders. The well-being and safety of patients are of the utmost importance in emergency medical situations, and paramedics are responsible for providing the best possible care based on their training and expertise.
What has made it possible for the paramedic to submit 12-lead ECGs to the hospital while still on the scene?
The advancement of cellular technology has opened up the possibility for paramedics to send 12-lead electrocardiograms (ECGs) to the hospital while in the field. In the past, paramedics typically had to transmit ECG data via radio or physically transport the ECG strips or paper to the hospital for interpretation by medical professionals. However, with the availability of cellular networks and mobile devices, paramedics can now transmit ECG data in real-time to the receiving hospital. This allows the medical team at the hospital to assess the patient's condition remotely and make more informed decisions about appropriate treatment and destination for the patient. The ability to transmit 12-lead ECGs rapidly can significantly improve the quality and speed of care for patients experiencing cardiac events.
Which DOES NOT constitute a method of safeguarding the patient's privacy when information is transmitted?
A 10-code system, also known as a radio code or ten-code, is a system of numeric codes used by emergency services and law enforcement to communicate information efficiently and discreetly over the radio. However, it is not specifically designed for patient privacy protection. 10-codes are primarily used for operational purposes, such as conveying status updates, requesting assistance, or providing brief descriptions of incidents.
What is the base station's typical power output?
The typical power output of a base station can vary depending on the specific technology, frequency bands, and network requirements. However, among the options you provided, the most accurate range for the typical power output of a base station is: 45-275 watts
What is the normal two-way radio mobile range?
The typical range for a mobile two-way radio can vary based on various factors, as mentioned in my previous response. However, among the options you provided, the most accurate range for a standard mobile two-way radio operating in the VHF or UHF bands is: 10-15 miles
The following are all included in EMS transmissions, EXCEPT:
Online medical control involves direct communication between EMS personnel in the field and a base station physician who provides medical guidance and support over the radio or other communication channels. This option requires a direct connection to a physician and may not be a standard component of EMS transmissions.