Patient Care Protocols Overview

Status: Current

Effective date: August 24, 2026

Last revised: August 24, 2026

These protocols establish a consistent clinical framework for San Andreas Fire & EMS. They support assessment, treatment, transport, consultation, and documentation while leaving appropriate room for provider judgment.

Clinical principle

Patient care develops from information obtained during the encounter. Providers should:

1. identify immediate threats and observable signs;
2. obtain the patient's history and chief complaint;
3. perform an examination appropriate to the presentation;
4. obtain and trend vital signs;
5. use available diagnostics within certification and authorization;
6. form a clinical impression from the collected findings;
7. select treatment and disposition within scope and protocol; and
8. reassess after treatment, movement, or any change in condition.

A clinical impression may change as new findings become available. Document uncertainty and relevant alternatives rather than presenting an unsupported diagnosis as certain.

Protocol hierarchy

Personnel shall follow:

1. immediate life-safety priorities;
2. current department protocol and medical-control direction;
3. approved certification and individual authorization;
4. the patient's informed decisions when capacity is present; and
5. sound clinical judgment supported by documented findings.

When a protocol does not address the exact presentation, provide care within scope, request appropriate consultation, and document the reasoning used.

Patient dignity

Explain significant assessments, procedures, and transport decisions in clear clinical language. Protect privacy, avoid unnecessary graphic detail, and account for communication barriers, distress, impairment, age, and decision-making capacity.

Related documents

• Assessment and Clinical Impression
• Provider Certification and Scope
• Patient Care Report Documentation
• Fire & EMS Standard Operating Procedure

Additional cardiac, airway, trauma, medication, procedure, refusal, and death/pronouncement protocols require medical-lead review before publication.