The California EMS Authority (EMSA) is providing an update on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) guidance following today's new announcements by Governor Gavin Newsom:
EMS Licensing, Certification and Training Requirements
Over the last year, Coastal Valleys EMS Agency (CVEMSA) has worked in collaboration with a representative group of EMS system partners to revise many of the EMS system treatment guidelines. This comprehensive review and revision process included moving existing guidelines into the current CVEMSA format and merging multiple treatment guidelines where appropriate to avoid redundant or conflicting instructions. In addition to improving and updating existing treatment guidelines, a number of new medications were added to local paramedic scope of practice. The revised guidelines expand treatment modalities for treating pain with opioid alternatives and offer new options for patients in need of sedation. Trauma care is improved with the implementation of the first prehospital medication available for severe hemorrhage. Basic Life Support agencies will have access to the latest updates to EMT scope of practice available under state regulation. Organization of the protocols now includes a “procedure guidelines” section intended to improve access to skill-specific instructions and educational notes. As with the most recent revisions to CVEMSA treatment guidelines, BLS and ALS care for both adult and pediatric patients have been merged into a single document for improved clarity and to support continuity of care. Each treatment or procedure guideline includes a cross-reference table showing linkages to related guidelines.
Coastal Valleys EMS Agency 463 Aviation Blvd, Suite 100 Santa Rosa, CA 95403 (707) 565-6501 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.