How can dispatchers assist callers experiencing medical emergencies?

Providing pre-arrival instructions while emergency services are on the way is a critical role of dispatchers during medical emergencies. This approach allows dispatchers to guide callers through potentially life-saving procedures, such as CPR, first aid techniques, or how to assist a choking victim. By offering these instructions, dispatchers can help stabilize the situation and support the caller until trained medical personnel arrive on the scene.

This assistance is vital, as it can mean the difference between life and death in urgent situations. It empowers the caller with knowledge and immediate actions they can take, fostering cooperation and engagement rather than helplessness.

While sending multiple units simultaneously may seem beneficial in some scenarios, it does not directly aid the caller and does not provide immediate assistance. Transferring the call to a medical professional is not always feasible or necessary, as dispatchers are trained to handle medical emergencies effectively. Asking the caller to wait for help does not resolve the urgency of the situation and can lead to worse outcomes, as it leaves the caller without guidance on how to manage the emergency.