Learn how to rapidly respond to medical emergencies at UMGC.
A medical emergency can be defined as anything from a serious fall or cut to a heart attack. Rapid response is crucial, and it should always be considered that a call for medical help is serious until determined otherwise. Immediately call emergency services at 911 or security. Rapid and effective first aid treatment for employees, students, and guests is essential to minimizing suffering.
Communication:
All medical emergencies must be reported to the Security Office or emergency services (911) immediately. If 911 is called first, the Security Office and/or director of security must be notified as soon as possible.
If you discover or are informed of a medical emergency:
- Contact emergency services (911) or UMGC security.
- Give the exact location and nature of the emergency. Be calm and speak clearly. Inform them of the condition of the individual/s and the seriousness of the situation.
- If you discover an individual having a medical emergency, do not leave the person unattended unless the situation is serious and there is no phone immediately at hand.
- Look for emergency medical IDs such as bracelets and necklaces.
- Send someone outside of the building to meet and direct emergency services personnel.
- While waiting for help to respond, remain calm and reassuring. Keep the individual as comfortable as possible until emergency personnel arrive.
- Upon arrival of emergency services or security, provide a detailed description of the situation.
- If the individual is unresponsive and in need of CPR, only trained individuals should begin the procedures. If an automated external defibrillator, or AED, is available in the building, retrieve the AED or send someone to retrieve it.