emergency-medical-dispatcher/references/tasks.md

Tasks & work activities — emergency medical dispatcher

Source: O*NET 30.3, occupation 43-5031.00 (Public Safety Telecommunicators).

Task statements

• [Core] Determine response requirements and relative priorities of situations, and dispatch units in accordance with established procedures.
• [Core] Record details of calls, dispatches, and messages.
• [Core] Question callers to determine their locations and the nature of their problems to determine type of response needed.
• [Core] Enter, update, and retrieve information from teletype networks and computerized data systems regarding such things as wanted persons, stolen property, vehicle registration, and stolen vehicles.
• [Core] Scan status charts and computer screens, and contact emergency response field units to determine emergency units available for dispatch.
• [Core] Relay information and messages to and from emergency sites, to law enforcement agencies, and to all other individuals or groups requiring notification.
• [Core] Receive incoming telephone or alarm system calls regarding emergency and non-emergency police and fire service, emergency ambulance service, information, and after-hours calls for departments within a city.
• [Core] Maintain access to, and security of, highly sensitive materials.
• [Core] Observe alarm registers and scan maps to determine whether a specific emergency is in the dispatch service area.
• [Core] Maintain files of information relating to emergency calls, such as personnel rosters and emergency call-out and pager files.
• [Core] Monitor various radio frequencies, such as those used by public works departments, school security, and civil defense, to stay apprised of developing situations.
• [Core] Learn material and pass required tests for certification.
• [Core] Read and effectively interpret small-scale maps and information from a computer screen to determine locations and provide directions.
• [Core] Answer routine inquiries, and refer calls not requiring dispatches to appropriate departments and agencies.
• [Core] Provide emergency medical instructions to callers.
• [Core] Test and adjust communication and alarm systems, and report malfunctions to maintenance units.
• [Supplemental] Monitor alarm systems to detect emergencies, such as fires and illegal entry into establishments.
• [Supplemental] Operate and maintain mobile dispatch vehicles and equipment.

Detailed work activities

• Adjust office equipment to ensure proper operation.
• Answer telephones to direct calls or provide information.
• Confer with coworkers to coordinate work activities.
• Coordinate operational activities.
• Discuss goods or services information with customers or patrons.
• Enter information into databases or software programs.
• Interpret blueprints, specifications, or diagrams to inform installation, development or operation activities.
• Maintain call records.
• Maintain current knowledge related to work activities.
• Maintain security.
• Monitor alarm systems.
• Monitor equipment operation to ensure proper functioning.
• Operate communications equipment or systems.
• Operate vehicles or material-moving equipment.
• Provide basic health care services.
• Refer customers to appropriate personnel.
• Relay information between personnel.
• Report maintenance or equipment problems to appropriate personnel.
• Search files, databases or reference materials to obtain needed information.