SGEM#291 - By admin - May 2, 2020
"CLINICAL QUESTION: WHAT IS THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN WARNING LIGHTS AND SIRENS USE BY EMS AND CRASH-RELATED DELAYS?
Authors’ Conclusions: “Ambulance use of lights and sirens is associated with increased risk of ambulance crashes. The association is greatest during the transport phase. EMS providers should weigh these risks against any potential time savings associated with lights and sirens use.”
KEY RESULT: THERE WAS A GREATER ODDS RATIO OF CRASHING WITH THE USE OF LIGHTS AND SIRENS.
SGEM BOTTOM LINE: THE USE OF WARNING LIGHTS AND SIRENS WAS ASSOCIATED WITH A SIGNIFICANT INCREASE IN THE RISK OF CRASHING IN THE TRANSPORT PHASE."