When to Call an Ambulance

Knowing When to Call an Ambulance:

  • Difficulty breathing, loss of consciousness, or irregular breathing patterns are clear signs to dial emergency services.
  • Chest pain, especially if it radiates to the arms, neck, or jaw, warrants immediate attention.
  • Symptoms like slurred speech, confusion, or vision problems could indicate a stroke and require urgent medical assistance.
  • Numbness, tingling, or paralysis of limbs are red flags for neurological issues.
  • Persistent abdominal pain, vomiting, or presence of blood demand immediate medical assessment.
  • Injuries to the neck, back, or joints that worsen with movement should be assessed by medical professionals.

Critical Information for 911 Dispatch

  • Provide the dispatcher with precise details of the emergency location.
  • Describe the symptoms observed in the individual requiring assistance.
  • Offer your name and contact number for follow-up inquiries.
  • Remain on the line until instructed otherwise by the dispatcher.

Preparing for Ambulance Arrival

  • Ensure the safety of everyone involved in the situation.
  • Illuminate the surroundings by turning on porch lights for easier identification.
  • Unlock doors and clear pathways to facilitate the ambulance crew’s access.
  • Designate a responsible individual to guide the ambulance to the location if needed.
  • Avoid unnecessary movement of injured individuals to prevent exacerbating their condition.

Essential Information for Ambulance Crew

  • Provide a comprehensive account of the incident, including its onset, duration, and any pertinent medical history.
  • Share the patient’s age, known medical conditions, current medications, and known allergies.
  • Clearly articulate the specific type of emergency services required for efficient response and treatment.

 


Central Montana Medical Center’s (CMMC) Emergency Services at Events

  • Central Montana Medical Center (CMMC) offers accessible emergency support for community events, prioritizing public health and safety.
  • Requests for emergency services at events are carefully evaluated based on the event’s nature, anticipated attendance, and potential risks.
  • CMMC endeavors to provide cost-effective or complimentary emergency services for qualifying charitable or nonprofit events.
  • Event organizers can initiate a request for emergency services via the provided webform, with confirmation of service availability and eligibility provided upon review.

 

Department Contact
  • Marsha Zibell, RN-BSN, NREMT-P, EMS Manager
  • 406-535-1468