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Writer's pictureJason T

What to Do While Waiting for an Ambulance: A Guide for BLS Students

Updated: Nov 3

After rescuing a victim, it's natural to have questions running through your mind: Did I do this right? Was my First Aid technique effective? Is there anything else I can do to help? What should I do while Waiting for an Ambulance? These concerns are normal, and even more questions may arise during an emergency.


What to do while you wait for an ambulance during a first aid situation.

In an urban setting, an ambulance can take anywhere from 5 to 25 minutes to arrive, or even longer. In rural areas, response times can vary from 15 to 40 minutes, and if the distance is beyond 30 to 45 minutes, a helicopter service "Alberta - STARS" may be deployed. This means you might have some time after rescuing the victim to ensure your First Aid techniques were effective.


Secondary Survey: A Critical Skill - While waiting for an ambulance.

While waiting, performing a Secondary Survey is essential. This is your second chance to identify any issues you might have missed during your primary survey. The Secondary Survey can be conducted in two ways: Hands On or Hands Off.

  • Hands On - Unconscious: Perform a head-to-toe assessment, checking for injuries you might have missed.

  • Hands Off - Conscious: Ask the victim to describe their condition and any symptoms they're experiencing.

Both techniques are valuable. Use the Hands On check for unconscious victims and the Hands Off check for conscious victims, guiding them through the emergency by asking SAMPLE history questions.


What to Do While Waiting for Emergency Services

  1. Address the Cause of the Emergency

  2. Have the Victim Rest in a Comfortable Position or the Recovery Position

  3. Keep the Victim Warm

  4. Ensure the Victim is Breathing and Has an Open Airway

  5. Offer Comfort, Warmth, and Reassurance

  6. Double Check with Hands On/Hands Off and SAMPLE Questions


SAMPLE Questions

  • S - Signs & Symptoms: What's wrong?

  • A - Allergies: Do you have any?

  • M - Medications: Are you on any?

  • P - Past Medical History: Has this happened before?

  • L - Last Meal: When and what did you eat?

  • E - Event: Do you remember everything?


Being prepared and knowledgeable can make a significant difference in an emergency.


Important Reminder

“This material is for informational purposes only and is sourced from The Canadian Red Cross, Alberta Heart & Stroke Foundation, and Alberta Health Services. It should not replace medical, technical advice, instruction, or treatment. If you have questions, speak to your local physician or safety training facility.”


Final Tips

  • Protect Yourself!

  • Call 911!

  • Don’t Waste Time!



RESOURCES:


Heart and Stroke Foundation Accredited trainer logo.
 

Jason T - Author

Author - Saving Grace Medical Academy Ltd

Jason T

Retired EMT - Heart & Stroke Foundation Senior Instructor

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