03/27/2020
**Important message **
Hello everyone, we would like to provide you with a quick update regarding current policies/protocols throughout Emergency responses and the surrounding hospitals. We thank you for your understanding and cooperation during these stressful times.
1. Please limit the use of the 9-1-1 system to emergencies only. For MEDICAL EMERGENCIES: be aware the wonderful dispatchers at the desk have been instructed to do a brief screening to include questions relating to all potential COVID-19 symptoms. PLEASE answer all questions as accurately as possible. If you are in need of emergency medical services: the patient will then be asked the screening questions a second time when the EMTs arrive.
2. Prior to all assessments and interactions with patients the patient is asked to don a surgical mask. If you already have one please wear it, if you do not have a mask one will be provided
3. Hospitals have changed their visitation policy- for the time being all local hospitals are not allowing visitors to accompany patients to the hospital. The only exceptions are for minors, women in labor and end of life care. They are allowed 1 visitor to accompany them and will be asked screening questions and have their temperature taken prior to being allowed entry into the hospital.
4. Unfortunately EVAC does not have supplies to give out to the community as a whole, the only people that will receive a mask will be the patient receiving care. This is in compliance with current hospital protocols, all patients and visitors must don a mask prior to entry.
IF YOU ARE FEELING SYMPTOMATIC but your symptoms are not severe (severe here meaning you cannot take a couple of steps without being able to catch your breath, a fever 99.9 F or higher) please initiate a self-quarantine and contact your physician.
Please continue to practice social distancing as well as good hand hygiene.
We are by no means physicians, simply relaying information as it becomes available. We will do our best to answer questions and concerns.
Thank you for your time,
Emerson Volunteer Ambulance Corps
