Emer 107 LO5

Purpose and Scope

Ensure appropriately trained staff accompany patients during inter-facility transfers, following relevant protocols.

Indications for Intercept

Intercepts are indicated for:

  • a. Patients who become unstable during transfer or are transported to a health facility in an area with a higher service level.

  • b. Crews must know locations with higher levels of service (ground, air, facilities).

  • c. Arrange an intercept if a patient's condition in a higher service area warrants more care or additional resources; discuss with the service if unsure.

  • d. Patients who could benefit from an intercept include (but are not restricted to) those with:

    • i. CPR in progress

    • ii. Respiratory distress

    • iii. Hypotension

    • iv. Uncontrolled chest pain (suspected cardiac origin)

    • v. Grand mal seizure lasting longer than 5 minutes5\ \text{minutes} or repeated seizures without return of consciousness

    • vi. Decreased level of consciousness (if hypoglycemia or narcotic overdose not ruled out)

    • vii. Arrhythmia (unless known to be benign)

    • viii. Imminent childbirth

Post-Intercept Options and Responsibilities

After an intercept, the higher-trained member has the following options:

  • a. Transfer the patient to their unit for transport; the referring member must accompany to assist in care.

  • b. Accompany the patient in the referring unit to the health care facility.

  • c. Return to their intercept unit if no further interventions are required, allowing the referring unit to complete transport.
    All crews must use extreme caution, stopping only in safe areas and paying strict attention to traffic and road conditions.

Review, Documentation, and Oversight

  • Both services involved will review all intercepts for appropriateness.

  • Cases where an indicated intercept was not performed will be reviewed by involved services and forwarded to the SCOP and Ministry of Health.


Intercept meaning: A paramedic intercept is when a paramedic staffed ambulance meets up with a non-paramedic staffed ambulance to provide advanced life support. Advanced life support is warranted when a patients condition and need for treatment exceeds the basic life support level of care.