Why should dispatchers avoid giving medical advice?

Dispatchers should avoid giving medical advice primarily because it could lead to liability issues and may not comply with established protocols. When a dispatcher provides medical advice, they assume responsibility for the outcome of that advice. If the advice is incorrect or inappropriate, it can result in serious consequences for both the caller and the dispatcher, potentially leading to legal action against the dispatcher or their agency.

Moreover, emergency response protocols are designed to ensure that callers receive the most accurate and safe guidance based on established medical standards. Dispatchers are trained to gather information and relay it to appropriate medical personnel rather than provide direct medical instructions. This adherence to protocol helps ensure that callers receive care from qualified professionals who can assess and treat their conditions accurately.

While other concerns, like longer call times or confusion for the caller, can arise from dispatchers giving medical advice, the primary rationale centers around the legal and procedural implications of offering advice outside their defined role.