While still working for 911 I came across a social media post outlining things a dispatcher had said on the phone to callers. It was clear from the writing, they worked in a centre that dispatched for EMS, Fire, and Police. The post stuck with me and while I’m no longer working with EMS/911 (I miss all of you!!), I wanted to create a post like the one I read. I wanted to adjust it with things I’ve said while answering 911 and speaking with patients and callers. The centre I worked in was solely EMS/Medical Emergencies so our conversation are a bit different than they would be if all services were dispatched.

I already know that my past colleagues are going to look at this and know that some of these statements are ‘off protocol’ and they absolutely are, but I never claimed to be perfect and my calls definitely went off script a few times (Sorry about our AQUA scores!).

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“Medical Communications, what is the address of the emergency?”

I need you to take the bag off of his head and tell me if he’s breathing.

You can do this. I’m right here with you.

Does your Dad still have the knife?

They’re coming out to you as quickly as they can.

How many storeys did he fall?

I need you to cut both of them down, loosen the nooses, and tell me if they’re breathing.

Is his arm still caught in the auger?

I need you to get your wife onto her back, I’m going to help you deliver the baby.

How many pills did you take?

How many times was he shot? Is the assailant still near by?

I understand that you stabbed him. I’m going to tell you how to stop the bleeding.

We’re going to help your baby together, ok?

Listen carefully, I’m going to tell you how to do chest compressions. I want you to count out loud so that I can count with you. 1, 2, 3, 4…