N95 respirators are designed to protect you from breathing in very small particles that may contain viruses. These types of respirators fit tightly to the face so that air is inhaled through the filter material. N95 respirators should be worn only once and then thrown away in the trash.

Manufacturers supply important instructions with respirators on how they are to be put on and checked to make sure they’re properly positioned. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, specific to the product you’re using.

Check out the podcast here.

Tweet This Post

Before treating a child, try to elicit a history from the parent or caretaker paying special attention to any reference that is made to spinal deformities.  If in doubt, use only latex-free equipment and supplies.

For additional information you can go to the website of the Spina Bifida Association.

Tweet This Post

Misuse of tank-to-regulator washers accounted for a number of incidents where leaking oxygen caused fire or explosions.

In a nutshell – NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health) states: Do not reuse the “crush” washers that usually come free with each refilled O2 tank. Whenever possible, use the “metal-bound” sealing washers that come with new regulators and are designed for re-use. If the original washer is lost or damaged, you should replace it with an equivalent washer.

See the original FDA and NIOSH Public Health Notification for further clarification.

Tweet This Post

Albuterol Sulfate, for example, should be stored between 36 and 77 degrees Farenheit. Epi-Pens are even more restrictive; the manufacturer requires storage at 77 degrees with temporary variances from 59-86 degrees allowable.

While some agencies probably cannot guarantee these temperatures exactly, they should ensure that the drugs they store in ambulances and first response vehicles are kept within these ranges. Other meds have similar requirements and should be reviewed as needed.

Tweet This Post