On our ACRS, when we have rhythm interpretation and if we are unsure of what the rhythm is, is it okay to leave it blank?

Question: The new BLS that will be introduced in December 11, 2017 mentions that treatment and transport refusal would require the completion of the refusal of service. The question is whether it is required to be completed for any refusal of treatment or just treatment with possible negative outcome to patient example refusing collar vs. Dimenhydrinate or any analgesic?

Question: Are we required to complete a patient refusal and obtain a signature for any patient who for example refuses gravol administration, or does not want a medication given by IV, but accepts the medication administered IM, or refuses oxygen. Or any similar instance where there is a refusal, but the patient is still being transported to hospital.

Question: I have heard the term “best practice” used quite often in the past little while. I was wondering if you could elaborate on the means of “best practice”, and if the SWORBHP guidelines can be considered “best practice”?

If not, where would one look to ensure they are using the “best practice”? For example, in recent studies, best practice may not be to administer oxygen to each and every patient, however the BLS states that we should administer oxygen to each patient.

Question: This question is regarding cardiac arrest documentation expectations. Is it a requirement to document vital signs every 2 minutes or would it be sufficient to document one set with a comment: Patient remained pulseless throughout? As well, CPR charted once, with a similar comment: CPR performed throughout. In my opinion, this would be more efficient and concise.

As well, if in a position where we are transporting a VSA patient, as an ACP I have always performed a rhythm interpretation even while the vehicle is moving. I have never really noticed artifact as an issue, and cannot find any documentation relating to ACP practice stating I must pull over. I have not had any feedback from base hospital regarding this practice, but my supervisor has mentioned some serious concerns.

Thanks again for this forum that helps our practice.