If the estimated transport time exceeds five minutes, what should the EMS team do?

• A. Consult with OLMC for ALS backup or recommend rapid transport if ALS response is delayed.
• B. Dispatch additional units on standby.
• C. Initiate transport to the nearest hospital without consultation.
• D. Wait for additional instructions at the scene.

Answer: (A)

When transport time is likely to be longer than five minutes, the priority is to ensure the patient has access to advanced care as soon as possible. Consulting Online Medical Control to obtain ALS backup, or advising rapid transport if ALS response is delayed, ensures that skilled interventions—such as advanced airway management, IV/IO access, and critical medications—can be provided en route or sooner at a receiving facility. This approach reduces the risk of deterioration that can occur during longer transports. Simply dispatching more units or waiting for further instructions at the scene doesn’t directly secure the appropriate level of care in a timely way, and initiating transport without medical control guidance could miss essential decisions.