Paramedics’ COVID-19 response protocol

To The Haldimand Press

HALDIMAND—Haldimand County paramedics have been following a number of strict COVID-19 protocols and Ministry of Health guidelines to protect themselves and the community. Residents are reminded that paramedics who respond to calls may be donning special personal protective equipment (PPE) when they arrive and must conduct a two-metre distance assessment of patients to screen for the virus. 

If the patient’s condition allows, one medic will enter the home in PPE while the second paramedic remains outside until it is determined what level of PPE is required. Once the necessary PPE is determined, the paramedics will continue to don the appropriate PPE and treat the patient. They will also put a surgical mask on the patient as well as a precaution. This process can take approximately two to four minutes to complete, depending on the amount of PPE required.