Intro to Emergency Medical Care: Workforce Safety and Wellness

Reminders

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Key Lecture Topics

• Workforce Safety and Wellness
  • EMS Providers: Dedicated to emergency care and transport
  • Personal Wellness and Safety: Prioritize safety on and off the scene
  • Scene Safety Issues: Hazards, environmental conditions, threats
  • Never Compromise Safety: Maintain health and safety

Injury and Fatality Statistics

• 2013 Study: EMS has lower fatality rates compared to law enforcement and fire services
• Major cause of EMS fatalities: Vehicle accidents
• Common non-fatal injuries: Strains, especially back strains
• 1500 ambulance crashes annually in the US, with 59% during emergency response

EMS Provider Health and Well-Being

• Components of Wellness: Physical, mental, emotional (and spiritual for some)
• Physical Well-Being: Exercise and nutrition
• Mental Well-Being: Coping with stress, maintaining control of emotions
• Emotional Well-Being: Work-life balance, dealing with stressors

Disease Transmission

• Infectious vs. Communicable Diseases
  • Infectious: Caused by harmful organisms
  • Communicable: Spread from person to person
• Examples: Pneumonia (infectious, not contagious), Hepatitis B (communicable)
• Prevention: Immunizations, PPE, handwashing, proper equipment cleaning

Protective Measures

• PPE: Gloves, masks, eyewear, gowns
• Hand Hygiene: Critical to prevent disease transmission
• Immunizations: Maintain up-to-date vaccinations

Stress Management

• Types of Stress: Acute, delayed, cumulative
• Stress Reactions: Physical and psychological
• Coping Strategies: Deep breathing, relaxation, professional help

Dealing with Hostile Situations

• Awareness of surroundings, never enter a scene first if hostile
• Techniques for de-escalating hostile patients

Traffic Incidents

• High-Risk: Danger from other vehicles, onlookers
• Safety: Be aware of surroundings, mark danger zones

Coping with Death and Grief

• Five Stages of Grief: Denial, anger, bargaining, depression, acceptance
• Respect for Cultures: Different beliefs regarding death
• Grieving Families: Give time and space, especially when children are involved

Conclusion

• Personal health and safety are paramount for EMS providers
• Proper preparation and awareness can mitigate risks
• Always communicate and protect yourself and others