User:Cwheeler2/Advanced Paramedic response unit

The Advanced Paramedic Response Unit (Norfolk UK) is is an Advanced Paramedic initiative which began on 1 Feb 2009. The provision consists of a group of Paramedics trained in Emergency Pre Hospital Critical Care, operating under the umbrella of the [East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust]. Advanced Paramedics bring specialist emergency care to seriously ill and injured patients; often performing life saving techniques and interventions when and where the patient needs it, at home or on the roadside. This trailblazing level of care has only been possible because of the generosity and support of the public and organisations that have helped to fund the additional equipment and specialist training.

The APRU Paramedics activate from an Emergency Rapid Response Vehicle (RRV) which operates 24 hours a day seven days a week under the direction of the Emergency Operating Centre based in Norwich. The RRV is fully equipped with pre hospital critical care equipment and drugs, some of which are normally only found in Hospitals. As well as responding to 999 calls, the resource can be dispatched to assist Ambulance Crews with the most serious medical emergencies and trauma incidents, such as cardiac arrest; respiratory failure; stabbings; Road Traffic Collisions and falls from height. The APRU follows a strict governance programme to ensure maximum safety for emergency personnel and patients alike. Training and key competency sign off is conducted bi monthly, with Paramedics regularly giving up much of their spare time to maintain currency.