EMT Chapter 1

Advanced EMT (AEMT)

A healthcare provider trained beyond the EMT level, able to perform advanced procedures like IV therapy, advanced airway management, and administer a wider range of medications than EMT’s but less than paramedics

Advanced life support (ALS)

Medical care that includes advanced procedures, such as cardiac monitoring, IV therapy, and advanced airway techniques, often provided by paramedics and some AEMT’s

Americans with disabilities act (ADA)

A U.S law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities and requires accommodations to ensure equal access and opportunities

Automated External Defibrillator (AED)

A portable electronic device that diagnoses and treats certain types of cardiac arrhythmias by delivering an electric shock to restore normal heart rhythm.

Certification

A process by which individuals are recognized as having met predetermined standards or qualifications in specific skills or knowledge areas, such as EMT certification.

Community Paramedicine

A model of care where paramedics and EMTs provide non- emergency health services, such as wellness checks and chronic disease management, to improve access to healthcare within the community

Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI)

An ongoing process of evaluating and improving medical care by reviewing outcomes and performance, often involving training, feedback, and data analysis

Credentialing

The process of establishing and verifying the qualifications of healthcare providers to ensure they meet the standards necessary to practice in a medical setting.

Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD)

A system that uses trained dispatchers to provide pre-arrival instructions to callers and help prioritize and coordinate EMS resources.

Emergency Medical Responder (EMR)

The first level of EMS providers, trained to provide basic emergency care, such as CPR and basic first aid, often the first on the scene.

Emergency Medical Services (EMS)

A system that provides pre-hospital emergency medical care and transportation, involving a network of EMTs, paramedics, and healthcare providers.

Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)

An EMS provider trained to provide basic life support, such as CPR, oxygen administration, bleeding control, and assisting with certain medications.

Evidence-Based Medicine (EBM)

A practice that involves making clinical decisions based on research, clinical expertise, and patient values to ensure the most effective care.

Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)

A U.S. law that protects patients health information and requires confidentiality in the handling of medical records.

Intravenous (IV) Therapy

The administration of fluids, medications, or nutrients directly into a vein, often used to provide rapid treatment in emergency situations.

Licensure

The granting of legal permission for individuals to practice in a profession, such as EMTs or paramedics, after meeting the required standards and competencies.

Medical Control

The process where EMS providers consult with physicians to receive guidance on patient care, either directly (online) or through pre-approved protocols (offline).

Medical Director

A physician responsible for overseeing EMS systems, establishing protocols, and providing medical guidance and oversight to ensure safe and effective patient care.

Mobile Integrated Healthcare (MIH)

A model of delivering healthcare services within the community by using mobile resources, aiming to reduce hospital visits and improve access to care.

National EMS Scope of Practice Model

A framework developed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) defining the levels of EMS providers and their associated skills and responsibilities.

Paramedic

The highest level of EMS provider, trained in advanced life support, including IV administration, advanced airway management, cardiac monitoring, and medication administration.

Primary Assessment

An initial assessment conducted by EMS providers to identify and treat immediate life threats, such as airway, breathing, and circulation issues.

Primary Service Area (PSA)

The geographical area where an EMS agency is responsible for providing emergency medical care and response.

Public Health

A field focused on preventing disease, promoting health, and extending life within populations through organized efforts and informed choices.

Public Safety Access Point (PSAP)

A communication center where emergency calls are received, processed, and dispatched to appropriate emergency services, such as 911.

Quality Control

The process of monitoring EMS services to ensure they meet established standards, typically overseen by the medical director or quality assurance staff.

Secondary Prevention

Efforts aimed at reducing the severity of an injury or illness once it has occurred, such as early intervention, screening, and prompt treatment to prevent worsening.