STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

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The public expects prehospital personnel to make rapid, sound decisions in critical situations with minimal errors. Iredell County’s Emergency Medical Service (EMS) personnel traditionally perform extremely well in a wide variety of challenging situations, and we have faith that our employees will continue to perform safely and competently with ongoing training and oversight.

 

The following policies are intended to serve as guidelines for decision-making in high risk and high liability situations. These policies will help protect you, your co-workers, and the patient from harm. Remember the primary rule of prehospital care: “Do no further harm.”

 

Situations may arise when it is necessary to deviate from established policies. When this occurs EMS personnel will be expected to: 1) use common sense and good judgment, 2) look out for the patient’s best interest, and 3) reduce exposure to legal liability. Always remember:

·         Do no further harm.

·         Make decisions that are in patient’s best interest.

·         When in doubt, contact Medical Control for advice.

 

Any deviation from Iredell County Prehospital Medical Policies must be fully documented and forwarded for administrative/medical review and possible referral to the local Quality Management Committee.