What should EMDs avoid to improve their effectiveness during emergencies?

Making assumptions about the situation can significantly hinder an Emergency Medical Dispatcher's effectiveness during emergencies. When EMDs operate under assumptions, they may overlook critical details or fail to ask pertinent questions that could clarify the situation. This can lead to misjudgments about the nature and severity of the emergency, which in turn can affect the level and type of response that is dispatched.

In contrast, following established procedures, maintaining clear communication, and coordinating with other responders are essential practices that enable EMDs to gather accurate information, provide appropriate guidance, and ensure that the right resources are deployed in a timely manner. By avoiding assumptions and actively seeking factual information, EMDs are able to enhance their decision-making and overall effectiveness in emergency response scenarios.