District of Columbia Adult Pre-Hospital Medical Protocols
Introduction
In addition to describing treatments that the EMTs and Paramedics can provide, it also serves as a reference manual. The protocols include step-by-step instructions on how to perform certain procedures. It also includes a medication reference, describing how a medication works, its indications and contraindications, dosage ranges, and more. Lastly, patient care policies specific to the District of Columbia Fire/EMS Department are included.
The protocols presented here were in development for nearly two years. The review process alone took almost a year. Well over 50 individuals were involved in the development and internal review of the protocols, while over a dozen physicians from the local area hospitals assisted in providing input, review, and oversight.
The protocols are reviewed and approved by the District of Columbia Department of Health. The protocols are considered a living document, for as pre-hospital medicine changes, these protocols will reflect those changes. It is an integral part of the ever-changing world of Emergency Medical Services
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