Accuracy of estimation of external blood loss by EMS personnel.
The Journal of trauma · 2001-05-01 · Observational study
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel provide care in the out-of-hospital setting. The EMS report, including blood volume estimates, influences hospital management. Our objective was to assess the accuracy of EMS blood volume estimates. METHODS: In this prospective, observational study, EMS providers were asked to view four simulated blood loss scenarios in random order. Each scenario used a specific volume of spilled blood corresponding to the loss likely to cause the four classes of hemorrhagic shock. Estimates are reported using median and interquartile ranges. RESULTS: Ninety-two EMS providers gave 368 estimates. Only 8% were within 20% of the actual volume. Furthermore, only 24% were within 50% of actual volume. There was no correlation between accuracy and any demographic variable, level of training, or years of EMS experience. CONCLUSION: EMS personnel are unable to estimate "blood" volume accurately irrespective of level of training.