The service that I work for recently made a rather large purchase of new heart monitors. We are switching from the Zoll “M” series monitor to the Zoll “E” series. This of course comes with a ton of neat upgrades. Built in c02 Capnography, NIBP, and 12-lead monitoring are all new features that come with the devices.
There is one feature that I forgot to mention…..
The monitors record the Sp02, c02, NIBP and ECG for the entire call. They also have Bluetooth capabilities and sync the entire call to our electronic PCR’s. You heard that right, big brother is coming to town!
Before I get to far into this post, I will say that I am 100% for recording and keeping the data, but I’ll get into that later.
I heard several people say that they are troubled by the new devices because they feel like they are being “watched” or “spied on”. Many paramedics fear that the feature will lead to a lot of “Monday night quarterbacking”, or questioning of paramedics practices if you will. I personally believe that the people that fear this system are just not comfortable with their own skills. I am actually quite bothered by this response and can’t help but wonder if it will have some negative impact on the care provided by the “affected paramedics”.
Ever get the feeling that your being watched? Have you ever noticed that you don’t act like yourself when you know you are being watched or recorded? Well imagine that feeling being applied to every ALS call you run. My fear is that some paramedics are going to second guess themselves to the point where nothing gets done. Unfortunately everyone always assumes that surveillance is a bad thing.
Lets look at an example on how closer monitoring of patient care can be helpful:
Have you had a patient present to you one way on scene, and completely change either en route or at the time you arrive at the ED? If you have, then you have most likely had the nursing staff or the ER doctor question your assessment or treatment. Rather than just saying “you weren’t there”, you can show them solid evidence and spare yourself from being the topic of their conversations for the rest of the day.
ECG recording can be used to improve QA programs, defend yourself in court and help the hospital staff continue the care that you started. Having someone review your calls and ECG interpretation will ultimately help you. It is far better to have someone correct an issue, than let it go without being addressed, and possibly harming someone. If you feel that uncomfortable with your knowledge or skills, then read up and get confident!
Don’t be afraid of big brother. He’s really there to help.
