Prehospitalisation

Prehospitalisation refers to the period of care provided to a patient from the onset of illness or injury until their arrival at a hospital or other healthcare facility. This phase is typically managed by emergency medical services (EMS), which include paramedics, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), and other trained personnel. The primary goals of prehospitalisation are to assess the patient's condition, provide life-sustaining interventions, stabilize their condition as much as possible, and arrange for safe and timely transport to the most appropriate medical facility.

During the prehospital phase, EMS teams perform a rapid assessment to identify life threats and determine the patient's vital signs. They may administer oxygen, control bleeding, perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), immobilize fractures, administer certain medications, and provide pain relief. The nature and extent of interventions depend on the patient's condition and the specific protocols followed by the EMS agency. Communication between the prehospital team and the receiving hospital is crucial, allowing the hospital staff to prepare for the patient's arrival and initiate appropriate treatment immediately. This collaboration can significantly improve patient outcomes, especially in cases of severe trauma, cardiac arrest, or stroke. The efficiency and effectiveness of prehospital care are vital components of the overall healthcare system.