Achieve and maintain a 15 minute or less EMS on- scene time for incidents involving stroke patients
Objective Description
Trend Analysis
Between FY 2014 and FY 2022, the nine-year average on-scene time for stroke patients was 15:02. The Average EMS On-Scene Time for Stroke Patients has fluctuated slightly over that last nine years, varying between 14:02 and 15:59, but has remained lower than the national 15-minute standard since FY 2015. While the average EMS On-Scene Time for Stroke Patients increased marginally in FY 2021 from 14:54 minutes to 15:59 minutes, the On-Scene Time for Stroke Patients remained stable in FY 2022 at 15:58 minutes. EMS on-scene time can be impacted by the severity of patient symptoms, the effectiveness of the call-taking process, and the size of the EMS team.
Strategies
- Ensure paramedics are well equipped and trained to accurately interpret advanced electrocardiograms and treat stroke patients.
- Collaborate with area hospitals to deliver closely coordinated prehospital and definitive care for stroke patients, including special operational protocols, EMS provider training, early notification systems, and integrated quality assurance processes.
- Ensure effective identification of stroke patients during the 911 call-taking process, and a subsequent appropriate resource response.
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Source: Howard County Department of Fire and Rescue