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A situation in which fire may cause death or severe injury. A person whose clothing catches fire should be rolled in a rug or blanket to smother the flames. If an individual is outdoors, rolling in the dirt will smother flames. SEE: burn; gas; smoke inhalation injury; transportation of the injured.
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If the victim is trapped in a burning building, the occupied room should have the doors and windows closed to prevent cross-breezes from increasing the fire. The window should be opened only if the victim is to be rescued through it. Doors should be opened only a few inches to ascertain the possibility of escape. A burst of flame or hot air can push the door in and asphyxiate anyone in the room. Wet cloths or towels should be held over the mouth and nostrils to keep out smoke and gases.
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In attempting to escape from an area filled with smoke or fire, it is important to crawl rather than walk or run upright. The heat several feet above floor level may be lethal due to superheated gases, but at floor level, it may be cool enough to tolerate. Even when crawling, it is important to proceed as quickly as possible. Carbon monoxide is present in higher concentration at floor level because it is heavier than air.
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emergency cardiac care
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ABBR: ED. The unit of a hospital in which acute, severe, or urgent illnesses and/or injuries are treated.
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A box or bag containing the equipment, supplies, and medications needed to provide an initial assessment and to manage life-threatening conditions. The kit typically includes tools for managing the airway and breathing, supporting circulation, providing basic or advanced life support, inserting intravenous access, and measuring vital signs.
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emergency medical dispatch
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Any system that uses telecommunication devices and other methods to interview witnesses to an emergency, make triage decisions, and provide protocol-based advice so that first responses may be initiated before emergency services providers arrive at the scene.
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emergency medical identification
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emergency medical responder
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ABBR: EMR. Any person who has taken courses to acquire skills in the management of patients with acute illnesses or injuries. EMRs include those who have learned how to manage minor injuries, i.e., to use first aid, those who have mastered basic life support, and those with more advanced skills involving the management of cardiac or respiratory arrest or major trauma.
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emergency medical services medical director
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The physician responsible for the patient care and clinical components of an EMS system.