EMS Communications Flashcards
7 cards from real Paramedics Exam practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 EMS Communications flashcards as text
A patient's ECG is transmitted to the hospital via telemetry. Which technology makes this possible?
Answer: Biotelemetry over radio or cellular link
Biotelemetry transmits physiologic data such as ECG waveforms from the field unit to the hospital using radio or cellular links.
During a radio transmission, the paramedic says 'Be advised, patient is coding—stand by for update.' What communication technique is demonstrated?
Answer: Flagging with a preparatory phrase to alert the listener
'Be advised' is a preparatory phrase that alerts the receiver that important information is about to follow, improving situational awareness.
What is the purpose of the squelch control on an EMS radio?
Answer: Eliminate background noise when no signal is being received
The squelch control mutes the receiver's audio when no carrier signal is present, eliminating the constant static heard between transmissions.
During a mass casualty incident, the incident commander assigns a 'Communications Unit Leader.' This person's primary role is to:
Answer: Establish and manage the communications plan for the incident
Under ICS, the Communications Unit Leader (COML) is responsible for establishing, operating, and maintaining the incident communications plan.
A paramedic receives a radio order from medical control to administer a medication. Before acting, the paramedic should:
Answer: Echo the order back word-for-word and await confirmation
Repeating the order back (echo procedure) and receiving confirmation ensures accurate receipt of verbal medication orders before administration.
Which of the following frequencies is designated as the national EMS calling/simplex channel in the United States?
Answer: 155.340 MHz
155.340 MHz (MED 9) is the national EMS simplex calling channel designated by the FCC for use across the US.
What is the recommended maximum duration for a single uninterrupted radio transmission in EMS?
Answer: 30 seconds
EMS communications guidelines recommend transmissions of no longer than 30 seconds to keep the channel available and prevent listener fatigue.