General Medical Protocol

1. Obtain history of present illness and pertinent past history.

2. Obtain vital signs and repeat at regular intervals until arrival at medical facility.

3. Perform a focused physical examination based on chief complaint but all patients should have:

3. 1. 1. 1. Baseline neurologic status

         2. Lung sounds

         3. Abdominal examination

         4. Skin assessment including presence of applied medication patches

4. Cardiac monitoring should be instituted in most medical situations and at the discretion of the senior paramedic.

5. Rapid glucose testing SHOULD be done on any patient with:

5. 1. 1. 1. Altered mental status

         2. History of diabetes or hypoglycemia

         3. Unstable vital signs

6. Oxygen SHOULD ALWAYS be administered in the following circumstances:

6. 1. Dyspnea or respiratory distress

   2. Chest pain

   3. Altered mental status

   4. Unstable vital signs

   5. Any other situation deemed appropriate by EMS personnel

7. Treat per appropriate protocol.

8. Assess priority status & contact Medical Control.