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In today’s fast-paced office environments, emergencies can happen at any moment. Being prepared for medical emergencies is not just a matter of responsibility but a necessity. As a seasoned emergency responder with over three decades in emergency management, I wrote this guide to provide you with crucial steps to take while waiting for an ambulance in an office setting.

1. Remain Calm: A calm demeanor can also reassure the patient and your colleagues, helping maintain a controlled environment until professional help arrives.
2. Ensure 911 is on the way: In a crisis, people tend to think someone else is performing a task. Ask if anyone has dialed 911. If not, specifically point to someone and tell them to call.
3. Assess the Patient: Even if you don’t have training, you can tell the 911 operator the following:
   • Is the patient conscious or unconscious?
   • Is the patient bleeding, and from where?
   • Anything you know about the patient:
     • Male or Female?
     • Age, Weight, Race? (Weight and race can clue responders into underlying conditions)
     • Obvious medical conditions such as pregnancy or disability?
     • Medic Alert bracelet or necklace?
   • Anything you know about the cause of the incident
4. Assess the Scene: Ensure the area is clear of any persisting threats.
5. Clear the Path: Ensure a clear and accessible path for the paramedics to reach the patient swiftly.
6. Provide Privacy and Comfort: Maintain the dignity of the patient by offering privacy. Keep a respectful distance if you’re not directly involved in providing aid.
7. Notify Human Resources: If feasible, inform your HR department about the incident. They can assist with any necessary follow-up procedures.
8. Communication: If the patient is conscious, ask if there’s anyone they would like you to inform. Be their voice when they can’t speak for themselves.

• You are the first responder: Your knowledge and reactions can significantly impact the outcome.
• Educate Yourself: Consider taking preparedness courses. Many of them are free or very low cost.
  • Stop the Bleed: stopthebleed.org offers resources and training schedules to help individuals learn life-saving techniques.
  • Hands-Only CPR: The American Heart Association (heart.org) provides guidelines and training for Hands-Only CPR.
  • CERT (Citizen Emergency Response Team): FEMA’s Community Emergency Response Team program (ready.gov/cert) is an excellent resource for comprehensive emergency response training.
• Team Training: Encourage your office to organize group training sessions. This enhances individual skills and is also great for team building and preparedness.

Conclusion: When seconds count, 911 is always minutes away. Your actions while waiting for professional medical help can make a significant difference. Stay informed, stay prepared, and remember, your calm and knowledgeable response can save lives.

Navigating emergency situations requires knowledge, experience, and strategic planning. If you’re looking to develop or refine your emergency response plans with expert guidance, I’m here to help. With over thirty years of experience in emergency management, I offer tailored solutions to ensure your team is prepared for any situation.