Emergency Vehicle Operations and Protocols

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts discussed in the lecture about ambulance operations, safety protocols, and emergency medical procedures.

Tailgating

When a driver follows another vehicle closely, which can be dangerous, especially for emergency vehicles.

Code 3

An emergency response mode where ambulances may exceed speed limits and disregard certain traffic signals, but must still prioritize safety.

Blind Spots

Areas around a vehicle that cannot be directly seen by the driver, increasing the risk of accidents.

Rapid Sequence Intubation (RSI)

A medical procedure used to secure the airway of a patient who is at risk of respiratory failure, involving sedating and paralyzing the patient before intubation.

Medevac

Medical evacuation; the transfer of a patient from one location to another by air, usually in emergencies.

Landing Zone

A designated area for helicopters to land, typically requiring a clear space of 100x100 feet.

Fatigue Call

A notification by emergency personnel stating they cannot continue working due to exhaustion, leading to being placed out of service.

Hazmat Situation

An incident involving hazardous materials, requiring special precautions and procedures for safe handling.

Opposing Traffic

When an emergency vehicle drives against the normal flow of traffic to reach a destination quickly, while requiring careful navigation.

Decontamination Process

A procedure where patients exposed to hazardous materials are cleaned to remove contaminants before transport.