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Services

Accident & Emergency Services

Resources

We have a range of resources to respond to accident and emergency (999) calls. The type of response will vary according to the circumstances.   

Accident and Emergency Ambulances

The Trust's accident and emergency ambulances are normally staffed with a Paramedic and a Technician crew. The ambulances are fully equipped to deal with most circumstances and can transport a patient either sitting or lying down on a stretcher.

Rapid Response Vehicles (RRVs) RRVs are normally staffed with a single Paramedic or Technician who can get to the scene of an emergency quickly and provide patient assessment and advanced life support techniques. If possible the RRV may transport a patient with minor injuries or it may have to wait for back up from an accident and emergency ambulance or urgent transfer vehicle.  Alternatively the crew may refer the patient to another health agency.

Motorcycles The Trust uses motorcycles in some parts of its area to provide a rapid response and speedy delivery of advanced life support techniques.

Cycle Response Units A mountain bike response is provided in some congested areas allowing Paramedics to arrive at the patient's side faster than a traditional ambulance might. The medical equipment carried on the mountain bike consists of an airway kit, oxygen, suction, glucometry, drug therapy, analgesia and most importantly a defibrillator The cycles are fitted with blue lights and a siren to negotiate safe passage to emergencies through densely populated pedestrian areas and busy roads.

Trust Headquarters, Unit 3 Abbey Court, Sowton Industrial Estate, Exeter, EX2 7HY, Tel: 01392 261500, Fax: 01392 261510, Email: publicrelations@swast.nhs.uk

Copyright © 2006 South Western Ambulance Service NHS Trust