Call Classification and Prioritization Protocols Flashcards
7 cards from real PSD practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Call Classification and Prioritization Protocols flashcards as text
A caller reports seeing someone slumped over a steering wheel in a parked car. What information is most critical to classify the call correctly?
Answer: Whether the person is breathing and responsive
Determining if the person is breathing and responsive is the key factor that distinguishes a medical emergency (Priority 1) from a welfare check (lower priority).
In the Priority Dispatch system, what does the suffix 'D' (e.g., 32-D-2) indicate?
Answer: Delta — the most critical response level
In MPDS/FPDS, the letter 'D' (Delta) indicates the most life-threatening determinant level, requiring the most urgent response.
Which scenario is the best example of a Priority 2 (urgent) police call?
Answer: A fender-bender with no injuries, vehicles blocking traffic
A traffic accident blocking a roadway with no injuries is urgent due to secondary collision risk, making it Priority 2 — not life-threatening but requiring a prompt response.
When a caller's account of an incident changes significantly during the call, the dispatcher should:
Answer: Reassess and update the priority based on new information
Call classification must be dynamic; dispatchers are trained to continuously reassess and upgrade or downgrade priority as new information is received.
A child calls 9-1-1 reporting their parent is 'acting weird and won't wake up.' What is the dispatcher's first priority?
Answer: Classify as Priority 1 and begin EMS pre-arrival instructions
An unresponsive person reported by any caller — including a child — immediately triggers Priority 1 classification and pre-arrival instructions.
What is the primary purpose of call triage in a public safety answering point (PSAP)?
Answer: To allocate limited resources efficiently based on urgency
Call triage ensures that the most urgent calls receive immediate resources while others are queued appropriately, maximizing efficient use of limited responders.
A caller reports a structure fire with people possibly trapped inside. Which agencies should typically be dispatched simultaneously?
Answer: Fire and EMS simultaneously; police optional based on protocol
Structure fires with possible entrapment require simultaneous dispatch of fire (suppression/rescue) and EMS (medical standby), with police per local protocol.