By EMS Coordinator Mike McEvoy, Ph.D., NRP, RN, CCRN
NYSAFC EMS Committee
DOH Approves EMT Use of Syringe Epinephrine
The New York State Department of Health recently approved epinephrine administration using a syringe, needle, and vial or ampule of epi by EMTs. Starting this fall, every EMT original and refresher course, as well as CME program will include didactic and psychomotor content on using epinephrine to treat patients with severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis). The details are outlined in Policy Statement 17-06 available on the Bureau website here.
Summer Heat Safety Tool
OSHA/NIOSH has released a revised heat safety tool available as an app for both iOS and Android phones. The app calculates heat index, a reflection of actual temperatures when humidity and ambient air temperature are combined. The app also indicates when conditions are potentially dangerous to firefighters and others who may be working in hot environments. Additional information and links to the app are available here.