Medical Alert ID for First Responders

How medical IDs shape your actions as a first responder

It's amazing how something as simple as a bracelet can save lives. When you arrive at the scene as a first responder, the chances are you'll check for a medical ID.

In certain situations, this is vital. When it's clear someone is in anaphylactic shock, you need to know what the allergen is. Should the medical ID reveal that person's allergen, you can remove it. This prevents them from re-entering the state of shock.

Millions of patients have conditions that render them unconscious. As a paramedic, you may rely on taking a history to find out what's happening. But what do you do when that person can't speak? Mediband's IDs list conditions that change the way you treat a patient. For example, if you're aware they're relying on anticoagulants, you may delay further such treatments until you reach the emergency room.

With 95% of emergency responders checking their patients for IDs, it's clear they're useful. Today Medibands have expanded to feature a litany of conditions. From allergies through to strokes, you'll obtain vital information that changes your approach to care.

Meeting challenging communication needs

An unconscious state isn't the only reason a patient may struggle to communicate. When you check for a medical ID, you may see information such as:

  • Autism or ADHD
  • Alzheimer's
  • Dysarthria
  • Other speech disorders

At the start of your care, you may want to assess a patient's pain. Knowing that they have a communication disorder may prompt you to use a non-verbal pain scale. Moving onto a visual tool rapidly enhances patient care. Why? It allows the paramedic to deliver appropriate pain relief. 

Similarly, children who have conditions such as autism and ADHD may struggle to communicate with adults. Being able to give this information at the handover makes it easier for professionals in the emergency room to craft their care plan.

Where should first responders look for medical IDs?

Some patients worry about wearing medical IDs. Sometimes, this is because they don't want to advertise their condition. In other cases, it's for style reasons.

As such, first responders should know where to look for a Mediband:

  • First, try the wrist. Medibands are the perfect shape, which means this is the comfiest place to wear one. 
  • Next, try around the neck. Necklaces are a little more discreet. Patients may slip them beneath their tops.
  • Don't disregard the ankle. While it's unusual, you may find one during your top-to-toe survey.
  • Some may take them off and place them in pockets. Or, in bags.

As NZCOR has now included checking for medical IDs in its guidelines, it's essential to perform a thorough search.

Why Mediband?

As a paramedic, you may want to recommend medical IDs to patients. So, why choose Mediband?

Mediband uses hypoallergenic materials. This means a reduced risk of an allergic skin reaction. In addition, patients can choose from a range of materials. This includes:

  • Silicone, which doesn't snap easily
  • Stainless steel, which is robust and resistant to scratching
  • Gold, which is eye-catching and stylish

When patients have a range of materials and styles to choose from, they're more likely to wear the band. With the right medical ID, you can deliver prompt care that saves your patient's life.