Storm Causes Changes to Paramedic Response Protocols

Blizzard conditions in Cape Breton and surrounding areas today, Feb. 26, have made it necessary for Emergency Health Services ambulance system to change regular paramedic response protocols.

The protocols affect only Cape Breton and the regions affected by the storm. Every measure has been taken to ensure the safety of paramedics and patients while maintaining the best possible patient care. The following actions have been taken:

• Medical calls are being prioritized and paramedics will be responding first to patients with life-threatening illness or injury.

• Driving chains have been placed on system ambulances to contribute to paramedic safety and response to patients.

• Emergency Health Services' online medical control physicians and communications paramedics will contact patients at home on a priority basis and will provide online medical support over the telephone until paramedics respond safely to their emergency.

• The Emergency Health Services system is working closely with the Department of Transportation and Public Works and other resources to assist in the response and transport of patients.

In the event of a medical emergency remain calm and dial 911. Calls will be processed and individually assessed by the communications paramedics in the Emergency Health Services Medical Communications Centre, supported by online medical control physicians.

"The protocols concern Cape Breton and the surrounding areas affected by the storm," said Arnold Rovers, chief executive officer for Emergency Health Services Ambulance Operations Management. "Nova Scotia paramedics, communications officers and the entire Emergency Health Services system team will work together to provide the best possible patient care while ensuring a safe response to emergencies."