Ambulance services respond to emergencies as quickly as possible, but it can still take some time for experienced help to arrive on the scene. Following these instructions while waiting for the professionals will make their job easier when they arrive.
1. Stay calm.
As the main point of contact for the patient, the emergency phone operator, and the ambulance team, it is vital that you stay calm and focused so that you can answer questions and follow instructions as clearly and quickly as possible. In addition, the patient is more likely to stay calm if you set an example.
2. Remain with the patient.
In an emergency situation, it might seem like many other things require your attention, especially if you are on your own, but you should never leave the patient alone while waiting for an ambulance. You, or another person on the scene, must be able to stay with the patient to keep him or her calm and comfortable, and to monitor any changes in his or her condition. You should not move the patient unless he or she is in immediate danger. This is particularly important if the patient has been injured in a fall or a car accident or is unconscious.
3. Help the ambulance find you.
Highlight your location for the ambulance crew as best as you can without leaving the patient. Make ambulance access easier by turning on lights, opening doors or gates, and removing any obstacles, such as cars or furniture, that may block the route to the patient. If there are other people with you, send someone to watch for the ambulance and guide the emergency personnel to the scene.
1. Stay calm.
As the main point of contact for the patient, the emergency phone operator, and the ambulance team, it is vital that you stay calm and focused so that you can answer questions and follow instructions as clearly and quickly as possible. In addition, the patient is more likely to stay calm if you set an example.
2. Remain with the patient.
In an emergency situation, it might seem like many other things require your attention, especially if you are on your own, but you should never leave the patient alone while waiting for an ambulance. You, or another person on the scene, must be able to stay with the patient to keep him or her calm and comfortable, and to monitor any changes in his or her condition. You should not move the patient unless he or she is in immediate danger. This is particularly important if the patient has been injured in a fall or a car accident or is unconscious.
3. Help the ambulance find you.
Highlight your location for the ambulance crew as best as you can without leaving the patient. Make ambulance access easier by turning on lights, opening doors or gates, and removing any obstacles, such as cars or furniture, that may block the route to the patient. If there are other people with you, send someone to watch for the ambulance and guide the emergency personnel to the scene.