Core Concepts & Takeaways

• • Implement proper pathogen-specific PPE protocols by correctly identifying transmission routes (airborne, bloodborne, contact, vector-borne), selecting appropriate protective equipment, and following proper donning/doffing sequences to minimize exposure risks during patient care.
  • Conduct comprehensive scene risk assessments by evaluating dispatch information, environmental factors, and patient presentation to recognize infectious disease indicators early and establish appropriate isolation and safety measures before patient contact.
  • Identify and respond to high-risk infectious conditions by recognizing the clinical presentations of common respiratory, bloodborne, and contact-spread infections encountered in EMS, and implementing the appropriate treatment and transportation protocols for each condition.
  • Perform proper animal bite management by assessing bite characteristics, evaluating rabies risk factors, providing appropriate wound care, and completing required documentation and reporting to ensure both immediate patient safety and public health protection.
  • Execute comprehensive exposure management protocols by following immediate post-exposure procedures, conducting thorough decontamination of self and equipment, documenting all potential exposures, and completing all required follow-up testing and monitoring to protect provider health and prevent disease transmission.
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