The Cherry Creek Fire Department is proud to maintain a strong and collaborative relationship with BC Emergency Health Services (BCEHS). Our shared goal is to provide the highest level of emergency care to our community. This partnership ensures that CCFD First Responders are always available to assist with medical emergencies, as well as providing crucial lift assists to BCEHS personnel when needed.

CCVFD, BCEHS and RCMP Working together

First Responder Scope of Practice Expansion

At Cherry Creek Fire Department, we are proud to announce that all of our First Responders (FRs) have successfully upgraded to the new expanded scope of practice under EMALB (Emergency Medical Assistance Licensing and Branch). This expanded scope equips our FRs with advanced tools and techniques to provide faster, more effective medical care to those in need. Our FRs are now authorized to perform a broader range of advanced interventions, ensuring a higher level of care and response during critical emergencies. – Nov 2024

Schedule 1:

  1. Wound Packing:
    FRs are now trained to perform wound packing to control severe bleeding and stabilize patients with traumatic injuries until further medical care can be provided.
  2. Nasopharyngeal Airways (NPA):
    FRs are trained to safely insert and manage nasopharyngeal airways to assist patients with compromised airways, ensuring proper oxygenation.
  3. Fracture Management & Immobilization:
    Our FRs can now manage fractures by applying splints and pelvic binding to prevent further injury and stabilize patients before transport.
  4. Lifting, Loading, Extrication & Evacuation:
    FRs are skilled in safely lifting and loading patients, performing extrication from vehicles or hazardous environments, and evacuating individuals from dangerous situations.

Schedule 2:

  1. Pulse Oximetry (SpO2) Interpretation:
    FRs can now use and interpret pulse oximeters to assess a patient’s blood oxygen levels, providing vital information for patient management.
  2. Non-Invasive Blood Pressure Measurement:
    FRs are authorized to take blood pressure measurements, providing key data to assess cardiovascular status and determine treatment priorities.
  3. Glucometer Usage & Interpretation:
    Our FRs can now use glucometers to measure blood glucose levels and interpret readings, essential for managing diabetic emergencies or hypoglycemia.
  4. Administering Epinephrine (Intramuscular, Intranasal, or Sublingual):
    FRs can now administer Epinephrine for severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), in intramuscular, intranasal, or sublingual forms, as per medical protocols.
  5. Intramuscular & Intranasal Anti-Hypoglycemic Agents (e.g., Glucagon):
    Our FRs are authorized to administer intramuscular or intranasal glucagon to patients suffering from severe hypoglycemia, providing immediate relief.
  6. Administration of Oral Analgesics:
    FRs can now provide patients with oral analgesics for pain relief, improving comfort and stabilization during transport.
  7. Acetylsalicylic Acid (ASA) Administration:
    FRs are permitted to administer ASA (Aspirin) to patients with chest pain suspected to be from a heart attack (acute coronary syndrome), as part of the early treatment protocol.

Why This Matters:

With these new capabilities, Cherry Creek Fire Department’s First Responders are equipped to provide improved patient care at the scene, bridging the gap until paramedics arrive. These enhancements empower FRs to make faster, more informed decisions, particularly in critical situations, improving overall patient outcomes.

Community Benefit:

  • Faster interventions in emergencies such as heart attacks, severe allergic reactions, and trauma.
  • Enhanced stabilization for patients, ensuring safer transport to hospitals or treatment centers.
  • Better integration with paramedics and other healthcare professionals by providing more comprehensive care on the scene.

Training & Certification:

All FRs at Cherry Creek Fire Department undergo rigorous training and certification to ensure they are proficient in these expanded skills. We are committed to maintaining a high standard of medical knowledge and hands-on experience for our team, ensuring that we are always ready to meet the needs of our community.

This upgrade to the scope of practice further strengthens the Cherry Creek Fire Department’s ability to respond effectively to emergencies. We are proud to be part of a progressive system that enhances the care we provide to the public.