Prioritization and Dispatch Flashcards

Which body coordinates the medical oversight and quality assurance of EMD programs in the United States?

Answer: Medical Priority Consultants / International Academies of Emergency Dispatch (IAED)

The IAED sets the standards and provides accreditation for EMD programs using MPDS, with medical directors providing local oversight.

A dispatcher receives a call about a patient with chest pain who is diaphoretic and pale. To which protocol should the dispatcher navigate?

Answer: Protocol 10 – Chest Pain (Non-Traumatic)

Non-traumatic chest pain, especially with diaphoresis and pallor suggesting cardiac involvement, is handled under Protocol 10.

What is the primary goal of a Post-Dispatch Instruction (PDI) in EMD?

Answer: Provide safety or preparatory instructions to the caller after units are dispatched

PDIs are instructions given after dispatch, such as unlocking the door or meeting the crew outside, to help the response go smoothly.

When a dispatcher assigns a response of 'Code 2' (no lights or siren), which determinant level most likely applies?

Answer: Alpha

Alpha-level determinants typically correspond to non-urgent or low-acuity calls where a routine, non-emergency response is appropriate.

A caller reports a 7-year-old who has been seizing continuously for 5 minutes. Which factor would most likely elevate this to a Delta-level response?

Answer: Continuous or multiple seizures without regaining consciousness

Status epilepticus — continuous seizure activity without recovery — is a life threat that warrants a Delta-level response.

In EMD quality assurance, a 'Case Review' process typically evaluates:

Answer: Protocol compliance, determinant accuracy, and pre-arrival instruction delivery

EMD case reviews focus on whether the dispatcher followed protocol correctly, assigned the right determinant, and delivered appropriate pre-arrival instructions.

A caller reports a patient bleeding heavily from a leg wound after a power tool injury. What pre-arrival instruction should the dispatcher prioritize first?

Answer: Instruct the caller to apply firm, direct pressure to the wound immediately

Direct pressure is the first-line intervention for controlling external hemorrhage and is the priority pre-arrival instruction for bleeding emergencies.