EMS Ride-Alongs
Ambulance Ride-Alongs
Although a paramedic ride-along is not mandatory, I encourage you to try at least one ride-along during your DEM rotation. You may schedule a ride-along in place of a shift; however, you should attempt to schedule this during one of your off days. You should ideally schedule your ride-along on a Friday or Saturday, as these days provide a more interesting experience.
To schedule a ride-along, please contact Gloria Tolle in room 1141 - GH (323-226-6674 or gtolle@lacusc.org . Please leave her a detailed message with date you would like to reserve. Also be sure to leave a local contact number or email address. You should attempt to contact her during the 1st week of your rotation, as it may take a week or longer to schedule a ride-along.
If you schedule a ride-along but then are unable to attend, you must call the station captain beforehand, and email both Gloria and Gay. If you do not inform all three prior to your absence, your grade for this rotation will be adversely affected. Unfortunately, there can be no re-scheduling of ride-alongs. Please arrive punctually and bring a white coat and a name tag.
The objectives of the ride-along are:
1. To gain some insight into the operation of the Pre-Hospital Care system.
2. To see the relationship of the Pre-Hospital care system to the Emergency Department.
3. To better understand the functions of the paramedic and EMT.
4. To gain an appreciation for the types of situations encountered in the Pre-Hospital Care management of a variety of medical and surgical conditions.