Student Ride-Along Requirement with Ambulance Services 700

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to outline the requirements for students to participate in a ride-along experience with an ambulance service. This experience is designed to provide students with hands-on exposure to emergency medical services (EMS) in a real-world setting, enhancing their educational and clinical training.

Scope:

This policy applies to all students enrolled in MEA, Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Program, Paramedic Program, or other programs at MEA who are required to complete a ride-along as part of their clinical or field training.

Policy Statement:

Students participating in the EMT or Paramedic Program must complete a designated number of ride-along hours and patient contacts with a licensed ambulance service or EMS provider as a requirement for successful completion of their program. The ride-along will provide students with an opportunity to observe and, where appropriate, participate in the daily operations of EMS teams, including patient assessments, transport, and emergency medical care.

Requirements:

1. Eligibility:
   • The student must be currently enrolled in an applicable MEA program and have completed any prerequisites required by the program (e.g., foundational coursework, certifications such as CPR, etc.).
   • The student must maintain a minimum grade of 75% to participate in the ride-along.
   • Students must not have any pending disciplinary actions or unresolved criminal background checks that could affect their eligibility to participate in patient care.
2. Ride-Along Hours:
   • The student is required to complete a minimum of 8 ride-along hours and assigned patient contacts, which could include a mix of daytime and nighttime shifts, to expose students to a broad range of emergency situations.
   • Students will coordinate with the designated MEA staff to schedule their ride-along hours. These hours must be completed during the program’s academic year unless otherwise approved by the program coordinator.
3. Student Conduct and Professionalism:
   • Students must adhere to the highest standards of professionalism and conduct during their ride-along. This includes:
     • Following all EMS agency policies and protocols.
     • Wearing the appropriate uniform, ID badge, and protective gear as specified by MEA provider.
     • Maintaining patient confidentiality and respecting the privacy of all individuals encountered during the ride-along.
     • Demonstrating respectful behavior toward EMS personnel, patients, and members of the public.
4. Supervision and Responsibilities:
   • The student will be paired with an experienced paramedic, EMT, or other EMS professional who will supervise the student during the ride-along.
   • The student is not allowed to independently administer patient care unless authorized by the supervising EMS professional and consistent with their level of training and certification.
   • The student may assist with patient assessments, observe medical procedures, and participate in other aspects of patient care under direct supervision.
5. Safety and Health Protocols:
   • The student must adhere to all safety protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and infection control measures.
   • The student is required to complete any necessary health assessments (e.g., immunizations, tuberculosis testing) prior to participating in the ride-along.
   • The student must immediately report any health concerns or exposures to the program coordinator and EMS supervisor.
6. Documentation and Reporting:
   • After completing the ride-along, students must submit a report documenting their experience. This report should include:
     • The dates and times of the ride-along.
     • A summary of the types of calls and medical procedures observed.
     • Reflection on the educational value of the ride-along experience.
   • The EMS provider will submit a confirmation of the student’s participation and performance to the program coordinator.
7. Exemptions and Special Circumstances:
   • Students with medical conditions or other special circumstances may request accommodations for their ride-along. Such requests must be submitted in writing to the program coordinator and approved by the clinical director or relevant administrator.
   • Students who are unable to complete the required ride-along hours due to extraordinary circumstances may be given the option to make up the hours in a later term or with an alternate provider.

Non-Compliance:

Failure to meet the requirements of this policy may result in the student being unable to progress in the program. Non-compliance includes:

• Failure to complete the required ride-along hours.
• Violation of safety protocols, ethical standards, or EMS agency policies.
• Disruptive behavior or failure to maintain professionalism.

Policy Review:

This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains consistent with program objectives, legal requirements, and EMS industry standards.

‍‍

Approval:

This policy was approved by Ghalib hajmohammad

CEO Midwest Emergency Academy

10/09/2024

‍

Acknowledgment:

I, [student’s full name], acknowledge that I have read and understood the Student Ride-Along Policy and agree to adhere to the guidelines set forth above.

Signature: _______________________________
Date: __________________________________

‍