There are many individuals who tell us each and everyday that they could not do our job. We are called heroes and guardian angels, but there are times when an individual expires despite our efforts. Having the required skills to save a life is of the utmost importance to say the least.

So, how do you know if you posses these skills needed to save a life. Unfortunately, there is no quantitative data or system to monitor or gauge your success rate as a lifesaver because there are to many variables that come into play. Therefore, we measure the level of care that was implemented on a per call basis. Was it a Trauma or Medical call? Critical versus non-critical. What protocol or standing order was utilized to render care or was online medical direction used as an option. Questions that have to be answered per QI and QA is subjective to say the least.

Here’s the basics. Did the EMT or medic select the correct protocol or standing order? If yes, was care rendered according to the protocols as designed and intended per the Medical Director? How long was the crew on-scene before going en-route to the emergency room? The EMT or medic may have had to place an advanced airway device or implement intravenous therapy. If so, was the attempts successful or unsuccessful? How much time was spent in obtaining or completing these task.

As we can see, selecting the appropriate protocol and standing order and initiating the high tertiary level of care in a timely manner is extremely important to a patient having a positive outcome. If we as EMTs and paramedics have accomplished all of these goals as set-forth by our medical director, then we have collectively as a team have exhibited the necessary skills to save a life. Despite the patients outcome.