Call Classification and Prioritization Protocols Flashcards
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Read the first 7 Call Classification and Prioritization Protocols flashcards as text
An elderly caller reports a fall but says she is 'fine' and just needs help getting up. How should the dispatcher classify this call?
Answer: Priority 1 — falls in elderly patients may indicate serious injury
Falls in elderly patients carry high risk of hidden injury (hip fracture, head trauma) and are classified as Priority 1 medical calls regardless of the caller's self-assessment.
What does the term 'incident typing' mean in CAD systems?
Answer: Assigning a standardized category code that drives recommended units and priority
Incident typing assigns a standardized CAD code (e.g., 10-50, MEDPRI1) that automatically suggests response units and priority level based on agency protocol.
A caller reports smelling gas inside their home. They are still inside. What is the correct dispatch classification?
Answer: Priority 1 — immediate evacuation and fire/hazmat response
A gas leak with a person inside constitutes an immediate life threat requiring Priority 1 fire and potentially hazmat dispatch, with the dispatcher instructing the caller to exit immediately.
Which of the following is the correct action when a caller is speaking a language the dispatcher does not understand?
Answer: Transfer to language line or conference in an interpreter immediately
Dispatchers must use language line or bilingual resources immediately to ensure accurate call classification and timely response regardless of language barrier.
Which situation would most likely trigger a 'multiple casualty' or 'mass casualty' classification rather than a standard Priority 1?
Answer: A bus crash with 15 or more potential patients
A mass casualty incident (MCI) is declared when the number of patients exceeds normal response capacity, typically triggered at a threshold (e.g., 5+ or 10+ patients) per local protocol.
What is the role of a 'call taker' versus a 'dispatcher' in call prioritization?
Answer: The call taker gathers and classifies information; the dispatcher assigns and coordinates units
In split-function PSAPs, call takers classify and enter incidents while dispatchers use that classification to assign, coordinate, and manage field units.
A caller reports a suspicious package left outside a government building. No threat has been made. What is the appropriate priority classification?
Answer: Priority 1 — potential explosive device requires immediate response
Unattended packages at government facilities are treated as Priority 1 potential threats requiring immediate police and possibly bomb squad response until cleared.