Clinical Judgment
Full ALS Call Simulation: Dispatch to Handoff
Integrating scene management, treatment, transport mode, and hospital radio report across an entire paramedic encounter.
From dispatch information to scene size-up
Full-call simulators begin with limited dispatch data—apply skepticism until scene confirms mechanism and patient count. NHTSA EMS education stresses crew resource management: driver prepares entry, lead paramedic forms impression, partner gathers equipment.1 Scene safety, BSI, and primary survey precede detailed history when life threats are possible.
Early transport decisions balance on-scene stabilization time versus hospital capability. A penetrating trauma patient may need scoop-and-run; a STEMI may warrant 12-lead before lights-on transport when acquisition takes seconds. Branching choices should reflect realistic time costs.
Handoff and closure
Hospital radio reports follow MIST or similar—mechanism, injuries/findings, signs, treatments, ETA. AHRQ handoff research shows structured reports reduce information loss.2 Verbal handoff at bedside repeats critical items: allergies, medications given, last vitals, and outstanding tasks (second IV pending, pain reassessment due).
Post-call includes equipment restock, PCR completion, and debrief when outcomes were poor. Simulators test whether you update receiving facility when patient status changes en route—deterioration after initial “stable” report must trigger upgraded notification.
Practice this skill
Apply what you read with a hands-on Full ALS Scenario Simulator drill — instant feedback on every scenario.
