In the name of medicine, of course.
[Credits]
In New York State, EMT-Bs are allowed to play with glucometers if their agency has approval and provides training. Unfortunately, New York City has their own protocols, which don't allow glucometers to be used by BLS providers.
Up here in Massachusetts, glucometers are included in a separate Paramedic-Assist Certification. Which my job made me get. :) So I not only get to stab you to check your glucose levels, I also get to stick on EKG electrodes, secure ET tubes and do basic IV prep (spiking the bag, taping down the catheter). It also covers albuterol nebulizers, which are a regular EMT-B skill in New York.
The upside? More challenging calls. The downside? More cleanup.
For more reading:
How to Use a Glucometer - About.com
New York State Glucometer Protocol
Massachusetts Protocols
Curious about the EKG...are you allowed to do just 3 leads or 12 leads too?
ReplyDeleteWe're trained to set up the 12-lead, but in practice we usually just do the 4 limb leads.
ReplyDelete