Article 3. Emergency Medical Services Vehicle Classifications and Requirements
12VAC5-31-700. EMS vehicle safety.
Article 3
Emergency Medical Services Vehicle Classifications and Requirements
An EMS vehicle shall be maintained in good repair and safe operating condition and shall meet the same motor vehicle, vessel or aircraft safety requirements as apply to all vehicles, vessels or craft in Virginia:
1. Virginia motor vehicle safety inspection, FAA Airworthiness Permit or Coast Guard Safety Inspection or approved equivalent must be current.
2. Exterior surfaces of the vehicle including windows, mirrors, warning devices and lights shall be kept clean of dirt and debris.
3. Ground vehicle operating weight shall be no more than the manufacturer's gross vehicle weight (GVW) minus 700 pounds (316 kg).
4. Emergency operating privileges including the use of audible and visible emergency warning devices shall be exercised in compliance with the Code of Virginia and local motor vehicle ordinances.
5. The use of any and all tobacco products is prohibited in EMS transport vehicles at all times.
Statutory Authority
§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-111.4 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 3, eff. January 15, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 29, Issue 1, eff. October 10, 2012.
12VAC5-31-710. EMS vehicle occupant safety.
A. An occupant shall use mechanical restraints as required by the Code of Virginia. Stretcher patients shall be secured on the stretcher utilizing a minimum of three straps unless contraindicated by patient condition.
B. Equipment and supplies in the patient compartment shall be stored within a closed and latched compartment or fixed securely in place while not in use.
Statutory Authority
§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-111.4 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 3, eff. January 15, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 29, Issue 1, eff. October 10, 2012.
12VAC5-31-720. EMS vehicle sanitation.
The following requirements for sanitary conditions and supplies apply to an EMS vehicle in accordance with standards established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Virginia Occupational Safety and Health Law:
1. The interior of an EMS vehicle, including storage areas, linens, equipment, and supplies shall be kept clean and sanitary.
2. Linen or disposable sheets and pillowcases or their equivalent used in the transport of patients shall be changed after each use.
3. Blankets, pillows and mattresses used in an EMS vehicle shall be intact and kept clean and in good repair.
4. A device inserted into the patient's nose or mouth that is single-use shall be disposed of after use. A reusable item shall be sterilized or high-level disinfected according to current CDC guidelines before reuse. If not individually wrapped, this item shall be stored in a separate closed container or bag.
5. A used sharp item shall be disposed of in a leakproof, puncture-resistant and appropriately marked biohazard container (needle-safe device/sharps box) that is securely mounted.
6. Following patient treatment/transport within the vehicle and before being occupied by another patient:
a. Contaminated surfaces shall be cleaned and disinfected using a method recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
b. All soiled supplies and used disposable items shall be stored or disposed of in plastic bags, covered containers or compartments provided for this purpose. Regulated waste shall be stored in a red or orange bag or container clearly marked with a biohazard label.
Statutory Authority
§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-111.4 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 3 and Volume 19, Issue 9, eff. January 15, 2003.
12VAC5-31-740. EMS vehicle inspection.
A. An EMS vehicle is subject to, and shall be available for, inspection by the Office of EMS or its designee, for compliance with these regulations. An inspection may be in addition to other federal, state or local inspections required for the EMS vehicle by law.
B. The Office of EMS may conduct an inspection at any time without prior notification.
Statutory Authority
§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-111.4 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 3 and Volume 19, Issue 9, eff. January 15, 2003.
12VAC5-31-750. EMS vehicle warning lights and devices.
An EMS vehicle shall have emergency warning lights and audible devices as approved by the Superintendent of Virginia State Police, Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries or the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as applicable.
1. A ground EMS vehicle shall have flashing or blinking lights installed to provide adequate visible warning from all four sides.
2. A ground EMS vehicle shall have flashing or blinking red or red and white lights installed on or above the front bumper and below the bottom of the windshield.
3. A ground EMS vehicle shall have an audible warning device installed to project sound forward from the front of the EMS vehicle.
Statutory Authority
§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-111.4 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 3, eff. January 15, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 29, Issue 1, eff. October 10, 2012.
12VAC5-31-760. EMS vehicle communications.
A. An EMS vehicle shall have fixed communications equipment that provides direct two-way voice communications capabilities between the EMS vehicle, other EMS vehicles of the same agency, and either the agency's base of operations (dispatch point) or a governmental public safety answering point (PSAP). This communication capability must be available within the agency's primary service area. Service may be provided by private mobile radio service (PMRS) or by commercial mobile radio service (CMRS), but shall have direct and immediate communications via push-to-talk technology.
B. An ambulance transporting outside its primary service area shall have fixed or portable communications equipment that provides two-way voice communications capabilities between the EMS vehicle and either the agency's base of operations (dispatch point) or PSAP during the period of transport. Service may be provided by private mobile radio service (PMRS) or by commercial mobile radio service (CMRS). When operating outside the agency's area of routine responsibility or in areas where CMRS is not available, the requirement for direct and immediate communications via push-to-talk technology does not apply. If an agency is licensed as a DERA, it is required to have direct and immediate communications via push-to-talk technology for either the agency's base of operations, dispatch point, or PSAP for which the EMS agency vehicle is used for emergency response to the public in the jurisdiction where a memorandum of understanding or memorandum of agreement is in place or is contractually obligated to provide emergency response.
C. An ambulance or an advanced life support-equipped, nontransport response vehicle shall have communications equipment that provides two-way voice communications capabilities between the EMS vehicle's attendant-in-charge and the receiving medical facilities to which it regularly transports or a designated central medical control on one or more of the following frequencies:
155.340 MHz (statewide HEAR);
155.400 MHz (Tidewater HEAR);
155.280 MHZ (Inter-Hospital HEAR);
462.950/467.950 (MED 9 or CALL 1);
462.975/467.975 (MED 10 or CALL 2);
462.950-463.19375/467.950-468.19375 (UHF MED CHANNELS 1-10); and
220 MHz, 700MHz, 800MHz, or 900MHz frequency and designated talkgroup or channel identified as part of an agency, jurisdictional, or regional communications plan for ambulance to hospital communications.
1. Patient care communications with medical facilities may not be conducted on the same frequencies or talkgroups as those used for dispatch and on-scene operations.
2. Before establishing direct push-to-talk communications with the receiving medical facility or central medical control, EMS vehicles may be required to dial an access code. Radios in ambulances or advanced life support-equipped, nontransport response vehicles must be programmed or equipped with encoding equipment necessary to activate tone-coded squelched radios at medical facilities to which they transport on a regular basis.
3. Nothing herein prohibits the use of CMRS for primary or secondary communications with medical facilities, provided that the requirements of this section are met.
D. Mutual aid interoperability. An EMS vehicle must have communications equipment that provides direct two-way voice communications capabilities between the EMS vehicle and EMS vehicles of other EMS agencies within the jurisdiction and those EMS agencies with which it has mutual aid agreements. Service may be provided by private mobile radio service (PMRS) or by commercial mobile radio service (CMRS), but requires direct and immediate communications via push-to-talk technology. This requirement may be met by interoperability on a common radio frequency or talkgroup, or by fixed or interactive cross-patching under supervision of an agency dispatch center or governmental PSAP. The means of communications interoperability must be identified in any mutual aid agreements required by these regulations and must comply with the Virginia Interoperability Plan as defined by the Governor's Office of Commonwealth Preparedness.
E. Air ambulance interoperability. A nontransport EMS vehicle or ground ambulance must have communications equipment that provides direct two-way voice communications capabilities between the EMS vehicle and air ambulances designated to serve its primary response area by the State Medevac Plan. An air ambulance must have fixed communications equipment that provides direct two-way voice communications capabilities between the air ambulance, other EMS vehicles in its primary response area, and public safety vehicles or personnel at landing zones on frequencies adopted in accordance with this section. Radio communications must be direct and immediate via push-to-talk technology. This requirement may be met by interoperability on a common radio frequency or talkgroup, or by fixed or interactive cross-patching under supervision of an agency dispatch center or governmental PSAP. The frequencies used for this purpose will be those set forth by an agreement among air ambulance providers and EMS agencies for a specific jurisdiction or region, and must be identified in agency, jurisdictional, or regional protocols for access and use of air ambulances. Any nontransport EMS vehicle or ground ambulance not participating in such an agreement must be capable of operating on VHF frequency 155.205 MHz (carrier squelch), which is designated as the Statewide EMS Mutual Aid Frequency. An air ambulance must be capable of operating on VHF frequency 155.205 MHz (carrier squelch) in addition to any other frequencies adopted for jurisdictional or regional interoperability.
F. FCC licensure. An EMS agency shall maintain appropriate FCC radio licensure for all radio equipment operated by the EMS agency. If the FCC radio license for any radio frequency utilized is held by another person, the EMS agency shall have written documentation on file of their assigned authority to operate on such frequencies.
G. In-vehicle communications. An ambulance shall have a means of voice communications (opening, intercom, or radio) between the patient compartment and operator's compartment.
Statutory Authority
§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-111.4 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 3, eff. January 15, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 29, Issue 1, eff. October 10, 2012.
12VAC5-31-770. Ground EMS vehicle markings.
A. The vehicle body of a nontransport response vehicle, a ground ambulance or a neonatal ambulance must be marked with a reflective horizontal band permanently affixed to the sides and rear of the vehicle body. This horizontal reflective band must be of a material approved for exterior use, a minimum of four inches continuous in height.
B. The following must appear in permanently affixed lettering that is a minimum of three inches in height and of a color that contrasts with the surrounding vehicle background. Lettering must comply with the restrictions and specifications listed in these regulations.
1. Nontransport response vehicle. The name of the EMS agency that the vehicle is permitted to shall appear on both sides of the vehicle body in reflective lettering.
Exception: A designated emergency response agency must have the approval of the Office of EMS for a vehicle to display an alternate name.
2. Ground ambulance:
a. The name of the EMS agency that the vehicle is permitted to must appear on both sides of the vehicle body in reflective lettering.
Exception: A designated emergency response agency must have the approval of the Office of EMS for a vehicle to display an alternate name.
b. The word "AMBULANCE" in reverse on the vehicle hood or bug deflector.
c. The word "AMBULANCE" on or above rear doors.
3. Neonatal Ambulance:
a. The name of the EMS agency to which the vehicle is permitted must appear on both sides of the vehicle body in reflective lettering.
b. "NEONATAL CARE UNIT" or other similar designation, approved by the Office of EMS, must appear on both sides of the vehicle body.
Statutory Authority
§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-111.4 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 3 and Volume 19, Issue 9, eff. January 15, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 29, Issue 1, eff. October 10, 2012.
12VAC5-31-780. Air Ambulance markings.
A. On a primary air ambulance, the following must appear in permanently affixed lettering that is a minimum of three inches in height and of a color that contrasts with its surrounding background. Lettering must comply with the restrictions and specifications listed in these regulations.
1. The name of the EMS agency that the aircraft is permitted to must appear on both sides of the aircraft body. This lettering may appear as part of an organization logo or emblem as long as the agency name appears in letters of the required height.
Exception: A Designated Emergency Response Agency must have the approval of the Office of EMS for a vehicle to display an alternate name.
2. Agency or FAA assigned unit/vehicle identification number must appear on both sides of the aircraft.
B. The Star of Life emblem may appear on an air ambulance. If used, the emblem (14-inch size minimum) shall appear on both sides, and/or front and rear of the air ambulance.
Statutory Authority
§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-111.4 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 3 and Volume 19, Issue 9, eff. January 15, 2003.
12VAC5-31-790. EMS vehicle letter restrictions and specifications.
A. The following specifications apply to an EMS vehicle: the EMS agency name must appear in lettering larger than any optional lettering on an EMS vehicle, other than "Ambulance," the unit identification number or any lettering on the roof. Optional lettering, logos or emblems may not appear on an EMS vehicle in a manner that interferes with the public's ability to readily identify the EMS agency to which the EMS vehicle is permitted.
1. Additional lettering, logos or emblems must not advertise or imply a specified patient care level (i.e., Advanced Life Support Unit) unless the EMS vehicle is so equipped at all times.
2. The terms "Paramedic" or "Paramedical" may only be used when the EMS vehicle is both equipped and staffed by a state certified Paramedic at all times.
B. A nontransport response vehicle with a primary purpose as a fire apparatus or law-enforcement vehicle is not required to comply with the specifications for vehicle marking and lettering, provided the vehicle is appropriately marked and lettered to identify it as an authorized emergency vehicle.
C. An unmarked vehicle operated by an EMS agency is not eligible for issuance of an EMS vehicle permit except a vehicle used and operated by law-enforcement personnel.
Statutory Authority
§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-111.4 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 3 and Volume 19, Issue 9, eff. January 15, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 29, Issue 1, eff. October 10, 2012.
12VAC5-31-800. Nontransport response vehicle specifications.
A. A vehicle maintained and operated for response to the location of a medical emergency to provide immediate medical care at the basic or advanced life support level (excluding patient transport) shall be permitted as a nontransport response vehicle.
A nontransport response vehicle may not be used for the transportation of patients except in the case of a major medical emergency. In such an event, the circumstances of the call shall be documented.
B. A nontransport response vehicle must be constructed to provide sufficient space for safe storage of required equipment and supplies specified in these regulations.
A nontransport response vehicle used for the delivery of advanced life support must have a locking storage compartment or approved locking bracket for the security of drugs and drug kits. When not in use, drugs and drug kits must be kept locked in the required storage compartment or approved bracket at all times. The EMS agency shall maintain drugs and drug kits as specified in these regulations.
1. Sedan/zone car must have an approved locking device attached within the passenger compartment or trunk, inaccessible by the public.
2. Utility vehicle/van must have an approved locking device attached within the vehicle interior, inaccessible by the public.
3. Rescue vehicle/fire apparatus must have an approved locking device attached within the vehicle interior or a locked compartment, inaccessible by the public.
C. A nontransport response vehicle must have a motor vehicle safety inspection performed following completion of conversion and before applying for an EMS vehicle permit.
Statutory Authority
§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-111.4 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 3, eff. January 15, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 29, Issue 1, eff. October 10, 2012.
12VAC5-31-810. Ground ambulance specifications.
A. A vehicle maintained and operated for response to the location of a medical emergency to provide immediate medical care at the basic or advanced life support level and for the transportation of patients shall be permitted as a ground ambulance.
B. A ground ambulance must be commercially constructed and certified to comply with the current federal specification for the Star of Life ambulance (U.S. General Services Administration KKK-A-1822 standards) as of the date of vehicle construction, with exceptions as specified in these regulations.
C. A ground ambulance must be constructed to provide sufficient space for the safe storage of all required equipment and supplies. A ground ambulance must have a locking interior storage compartment or approved locking bracket used for the secure storage of drugs and drug kits that is accessible from within the patient compartment. Drugs and drug kits must be kept in a locked storage compartment or approved bracket at all times when not in use. The EMS agency must maintain drugs and drug kits as specified in these regulations.
Statutory Authority
§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-111.4 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 3, eff. January 15, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 29, Issue 1, eff. October 10, 2012.
12VAC5-31-820. Advanced life support equipment package.
A. An EMS agency licensed to operate nontransport response vehicles or ground ambulances with ALS personnel shall maintain a minimum of one vehicle equipped with an ALS equipment package of the highest category licensed. ALS equipment packages consist of the following categories:
1. ALS – EMT-enhanced equipment package; and
2. ALS – Advanced-EMT/Intermediate/Paramedic equipment package.
B. ALS equipment packages shall consist of the equipment and supplies as specified in these regulations.
Statutory Authority
§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-111.4 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 3, eff. January 15, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 29, Issue 1, eff. October 10, 2012.
12VAC5-31-830. Neonatal ambulance specifications.
A. A vehicle maintained and operated exclusively for the transport of neonatal patients between medical facilities shall be permitted as a neonatal ambulance. A neonatal ambulance shall not be used for response to out-of-hospital medical emergencies.
B. A neonatal ambulance must be commercially constructed and certified to comply with the current U.S. General Services Administration KKK-A-1822 standards as of the date of vehicle construction.
C. A neonatal ambulance must be constructed to provide sufficient space for safe storage of required equipment and supplies specified in these regulations.
1. A neonatal ambulance must be equipped to transport two incubators using manufacturer-approved vehicle mounting devices.
2. A neonatal ambulance must have an installed auxiliary power unit that is capable of supplying a minimum of 1.5 Kw of 110VACelectric power. The auxiliary power unit must operate independent of the vehicle with starter and power controls located in the patient compartment.
3. A neonatal ambulance must have a locking interior storage compartment or approved locking bracket used for the secure storage of drugs and drug kits that is accessible from within the patient compartment. Drugs and drug kits must be kept in a locked storage compartment or approved bracket at all times when not in use. The EMS agency must maintain drugs and drug kits as specified in these regulations.
4. Required equipment and supplies specified in these regulations must be available for access and use from inside the patient compartment.
Statutory Authority
§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-111.4 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 3, eff. January 15, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 29, Issue 1, eff. October 10, 2012.
12VAC5-31-840. (Repealed.)
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 3, eff. January 15, 2003; repealed, Virginia Register Volume 29, Issue 1, eff. October 10, 2012.
12VAC5-31-850. EMS vehicle equipment requirements.
In addition to the items otherwise listed in this article, an EMS vehicle must be equipped with all of the items required for its vehicle classification and any ALS equipment package it carries as listed in 12VAC5-31-860.
Statutory Authority
§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-111.4 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 3 and Volume 19, Issue 9, eff. January 15, 2003.
12VAC5-31-860. Required vehicle equipment.
A. A nontransport vehicle shall carry the following:
1. Basic life support equipment.
a. Automated external defibrillator (AED) with two sets of patient pads. This may be a combination device that also has manual defibrillation capability (1).
b. Pocket mask or disposable airway barrier device with one-way valve (2).
c. Oropharyngeal airways set of six, nonmetallic in infant, child, and adult sizes ranging from 43mm to 100mm (sizes 0-5) (1 each).
d. Nasopharyngeal airways set of four, varied sizes, with water soluble lubricant (1).
e. Self-inflating bag-valve-mask resuscitation with oxygen reservoir in adult size with transparent mask in adult and child sizes (1).
f. Self-inflating bag-valve-mask resuscitation with oxygen reservoir in infant size with transparent masks in infant size (1).
2. Oxygen apparatus.
a. Portable oxygen unit containing a quantity of oxygen sufficient to supply the patient at the approximate flow rate for the period of time it is anticipated oxygen will be needed but not less than 10 liters per minute for 15 minutes. The unit must be capable of being manually controlled and have an appropriate flowmeter (1).
b. High concentration oxygen masks, 80% or higher delivery, in child and adult sizes. These masks must be made of single use soft see-through plastic or rubber (2 each).
c. Oxygen nasal cannula in child and adult sizes. This cannula must be made of single use soft see-through plastic or rubber (2 each).
3. Suction apparatus.
a. Battery powered portable suction apparatus. A manually powered device does not meet this requirement (1).
b. Suction catheters that are sterile, individually wrapped, disposable, and made of rubber or plastic in sizes as follows: Rigid tonsil tip, FR18, FR14, FR8 and FR6 (2 each).
4. Patient assessment equipment.
a. Stethoscope in adult size (1).
b. Stethoscope in pediatric size (1).
c. Sphygmomanometer in child, adult, and large adult sizes (1 each).
d. Vinyl triage tape rolls of red, black, green, and yellow (1 each).
e. 25 OEMS approved triage tags.
f. Penlight (1).
g. Medical protocols (1).
5. Dressing and supplies.
a. First aid kit of durable construction and suitably equipped. The contents of this kit may be used to satisfy these supply requirements completely or in part (1).
b. Trauma dressings, a minimum of 8" x 10" - 5/8 ply when folded, sterile and individually wrapped (4).
c. 4" x 4" gauze pads, sterile and individually wrapped (24).
d. Occlusive dressings, sterile 3" x 8" or larger (4).
e. Roller or conforming gauze of assorted widths (12).
f. Cloth triangular bandages, 36" x 36" x 51", triangle unfolded (10).
g. Medical adhesive tape, rolls of 1" and 2" (4).
h. Trauma scissors (1).
i. Emesis basin containers or equivalents (2).
j. Sterile normal saline for irrigation, 1000 ml containers (or equivalent volume in other container sizes) (1).
k. Oral glucose (1).
6. Obstetrical kit (one). It must contain the following:
a. Pairs of sterile surgical gloves (2).
b. Scissors or other cutting instrument (1).
c. Umbilical cord ties (10" long) or disposable cord clamps (4).
d. Sanitary pads (1).
e. Cloth or disposable hand towels (2).
f. Soft-tipped bulb syringe (1).
7. Personal protection equipment.
a. Waterless antiseptic hand wash (1).
b. Exam gloves, nonsterile, pairs in sizes small though extra large (5 each).
c. Disposable gowns or coveralls, each in assorted sizes if not one size fits all style (2).
d. Face shield or eyewear (2).
e. Infectious waste trash bags (2).
8. Linen and bedding.
a. Towels, cloth (2).
b. Blankets (2).
9. Splints and immobilization devices.
Rigid cervical collars in sizes small adult, medium adult, large adult, and pediatric (2 each). If adjustable type collars are used, then a minimum of three are sufficient.
10. Safety equipment.
a. "D" cell battery or larger flashlight (1).
b. Five-pound Class ABC or equivalent fire extinguisher securely mounted in the vehicle in a quick release bracket (1).
c. Safety apparel (2).
d. Sharps container (1).
11. Tools and hazard warning devices.
a. Adjustable wrench, 10" (1).
b. Screwdriver, regular #1 size blade (1).
c. Screwdriver, Phillips #1 size blade (1).
d. Spring loaded center punch (1).
e. Hazard warning devices such as a reflective cone, triangle, or approved equivalent (3 each).
f. Current USDOT approved Emergency Response Guidebook (1).
B. A ground ambulance shall carry the following:
1. Basic life support equipment.
a. Automated external defibrillator (AED) with two sets of patient pads. This may be a combination device that also has manual defibrillation capability (1).
b. Pocket mask or disposable airway barrier device with one-way valve (2).
c. Oropharyngeal airways set of six, nonmetallic in infant, child, and adult sizes ranging from 43mm to 100mm (sizes 0-5) (1 each).
d. Nasopharyngeal airways set of four, varied sizes, with water soluble lubricant (1).
e. Self-inflating bag-valve-mask resuscitation with oxygen reservoir in adult size with transparent mask in adult and child sizes (1 each).
f. Self-inflating bag-valve-mask resuscitation with oxygen reservoir in infant size with transparent masks in infant size (1).
2. Oxygen apparatus.
a. Portable oxygen unit containing a quantity of oxygen sufficient to supply the patient at the approximate flow rate for the period of time it is anticipated oxygen will be needed but not less than 10 liters per minute for 15 minutes. The unit must be capable of being manually controlled and have an appropriate flowmeter (1).
b. Installed oxygen system containing a sufficient quantity of oxygen to supply two patient flowmeters at the appropriate flow rate for the period of time it is anticipated oxygen will be needed but not less than 10 liters per minute for 30 minutes. This unit must be capable of being manually controlled, have two flowmeters, and have an attachment available for a single-use humidification device (1).
c. High concentration oxygen masks, 80% or higher delivery, in child and adult sizes. These masks must be made of single use soft see-through plastic or rubber (4 each).
d. Oxygen nasal cannula in child and adult sizes. This cannula must be made of single use soft see-through plastic or rubber (4 each).
3. Suction apparatus.
a. Battery powered portable suction apparatus. A manually powered device does not meet this requirement (1).
b. Installed suction apparatus capable of providing a minimum of 20 minutes of continuous operation (1).
c. Suction catheters that are sterile, individually wrapped, disposable, and made of rubber or plastic in sizes as follows: Rigid tonsil tip, FR18, FR14, FR8 and FR6 (2 each).
4. Patient assessment equipment.
a. Stethoscope in adult size (2).
b. Stethoscope in pediatric size (1).
c. Sphygmomanometer in child, adult, and large adult sizes (1 each).
d. Vinyl triage tape rolls of red, black, green, and yellow (1 each).
e. 25 OEMS approved triage tags.
f. Penlight (1).
g. Medical protocols (1).
5. Dressing and supplies.
a. First aid kit of durable construction and suitably equipped. The contents of this kit may be used to satisfy these supply requirements completely or in part (1).
b. Trauma dressings, a minimum of 8" x 10" - 5/8 ply when folded, sterile and individually wrapped (four).
c. 4" x 4" gauze pads, sterile and individually wrapped (24).
d. Occlusive dressings, sterile 3" x 8" or larger (4).
e. Roller or conforming gauze of assorted widths (12).
f. Cloth triangular bandages, 36" x 36" x 51", triangle unfolded (10).
g. Medical adhesive tape, rolls of 1" and 2" (4).
h. Trauma scissors (1).
i. Alcohol preps (12).
j. Emesis basin containers or equivalents (2).
k. Sterile normal saline for irrigation, 1000 ml containers (or equivalent volume in other container sizes) (4).
l. Oral glucose (2).
6. Obstetrical kit (2). It must contain the following:
a. Pairs of sterile surgical gloves (2).
b. Scissors or other cutting instrument (1).
c. Umbilical cord ties (10" long) or disposable cord clamps (4).
d. Sanitary pads (1).
e. Cloth or disposable hand towels (2).
f. Soft-tipped bulb syringe (1).
7. Personal protection equipment.
a. Waterless antiseptic hand wash (1).
b. Exam gloves, nonsterile, pairs in sizes small though extra large (10 each).
c. Disposable gowns or coveralls, each in assorted sizes if not one size fits all style (4).
d. Face shield or eyewear (4).
e. Infectious waste trash bags (4).
8. Linen and bedding.
a. Towels, cloth (2).
b. Pillows (2).
c. Pillow cases (2).
d. Sheets (4).
e. Blankets (2).
f. Male urinal (1).
g. Bedpan with toilet paper (1).
9. Splints and immobilization devices.
a. Rigid cervical collars in sizes small adult, medium adult, large adult, and pediatric (3 each). If adjustable type collars are used, then a minimum of three are sufficient.
b. Traction splint with ankle hitch and stand in adult and pediatric size (1 each) or an equivalent traction splint device capable of adult and pediatric application.
c. Padded board splints or equivalent for splinting fractures of the upper extremities (2).
d. Padded board splints or equivalent for splinting fractures of the lower extremities (2).
e. Long spine boards 16" x 72" minimum size with at least four appropriate restraint straps, cravats, or equivalent restraint devices for each spine board (2).
f. Short spine board 16" x 34" minimum size or equivalent spinal immobilization devices (1).
g. Pediatric immobilization device (1).
h. Cervical immobilization devices (i.e., set of foam blocks, towels or other approved materials) (2).
10. Safety equipment.
a. Wheeled ambulance cot with a minimum 350 lb. capacity, three restraint straps, and the manufacturer-approved vehicle mounting device (1).
b. "D" cell battery or larger flashlight (2).
c. Five-pound Class ABC or equivalent fire extinguisher securely mounted in the vehicle in a quick release bracket. One must be accessible to the patient compartment (2).
d. Safety apparel (2).
e. Sharps container, mounted or commercially secured (1).
f. "No Smoking" sign located in the patient compartment (1).
11. Tools and hazard warning devices.
a. Adjustable wrench, 10" (1).
b. Screwdriver, regular #1 size blade (1).
c. Screwdriver, Phillips #1 size blade (1).
d. Spring loaded center punch (1).
e. Hazard warning device (i.e., reflective cone, triangle, or approved equivalent) (3 total).
f. Current USDOT approved Emergency Response Guidebook (1).
C. A neonatal ambulance shall carry the following:
1. Basic life support equipment.
a. Pocket mask or disposable airway barrier device with one-way valve (2).
b. Oropharyngeal airways set of six, nonmetallic in infant, child, and adult sizes ranging from 43mm to 100mm (sizes 0-5) (2 each).
c. Nasopharyngeal airways set of four, varied sizes, with water soluble lubricant (1).
d. Self-inflating bag-valve-mask resuscitation with oxygen reservoir in adult size with transparent mask in adult size (1).
e. Self-inflating bag-valve-mask resuscitation with oxygen reservoir in child size with transparent masks in child size (1).
f. Self-inflating bag-valve-mask resuscitation with oxygen reservoir in infant size with transparent masks in infant size (1).
2. Oxygen apparatus.
a. Portable oxygen unit containing a quantity of oxygen sufficient to supply the patient at the approximate flow rate for the period of time it is anticipated oxygen will be needed but not less than 10 liters per minute for 15 minutes. The unit must be capable of being manually controlled and have an appropriate flowmeter (1).
b. Installed oxygen system containing a sufficient quantity of oxygen to supply two patient flowmeters at the appropriate flow rate for the period of time it is anticipated oxygen will be needed but not less than 10 liters per minute for 30 minutes. This unit must be capable of being manually controlled, have two flowmeters, and have an attachment available for a single-use humidification device (1).
c. High concentration oxygen masks, 80% or higher delivery, in child and adult sizes. These masks must be made of single use soft see-through plastic or rubber (4 each).
d. Oxygen nasal cannula in child and adult sizes. This cannula must be made of single use soft see-through plastic or rubber (4 each).
3. Suction apparatus.
a. Battery-powered portable suction apparatus. A manually powered device does not meet this requirement (1).
b. Installed suction apparatus capable of providing a minimum of 20 minutes of continuous operation (1).
c. Suction catheters that are sterile, individually wrapped, disposable, and made of rubber or plastic in sizes as follows: Rigid tonsil tip, FR18, FR14, FR8 and FR6 (2 each).
4. Patient assessment equipment.
a. Stethoscope in adult size (1).
b. Stethoscope in pediatric size (1).
c. Stethoscopes in infant and neonate sizes (2 each).
d. Sphygmomanometer in child, adult, and large adult sizes (1 each).
e. Sphygmomanometer in infant size (2).
5. Dressing and supplies.
a. First aid kit of durable construction and suitably equipped. The contents of this kit may be used to satisfy these supply requirements completely or in part (1).
b. Trauma dressings, a minimum of 8" x 10" - 5/8 ply when folded, sterile and individually wrapped (4).
c. 4" x 4" gauze pads, sterile and individually wrapped (24).
d. Occlusive dressings, sterile 3" x 8" or larger (4).
e. Roller or conforming gauze of assorted widths (12).
f. Medical adhesive tape, rolls of 1" and 2" (4).
g. Trauma scissors (1).
h. Alcohol preps (12).
i. Emesis basin containers or equivalents (2).
j. Sterile normal saline for irrigation, 1000 ml containers (or equivalent volume in other container sizes) (4).
6. Obstetrical kit (2). It must contain the following:
a. Pairs of sterile surgical gloves (2).
b. Scissors or other cutting instrument (1).
c. Umbilical cord ties (10" long) or disposable cord clamps (4).
d. Sanitary pads (1).
e. Cloth or disposable hand towels (2).
f. Soft-tipped bulb syringe (1).
7. Personal protection equipment.
a. Waterless antiseptic hand wash (1).
b. Exam gloves, nonsterile, pairs in sizes small though extra large (10 each).
c. Disposable gowns or coveralls, each in assorted sizes if not one size fits all style (4).
d. Face shield or eyewear (4).
e. Infectious waste trash bags (4).
8. Linen and bedding.
a. Towels, cloth (2).
b. Sheets (4).
c. Blankets (2).
9. Splints and immobilization devices.
a. Rigid cervical collars in sizes small adult, medium adult, large adult, and pediatric (2 each). If adjustable type collars are used, then a minimum of three are sufficient.
b. Pediatric immobilization device (1).
10. Safety equipment.
a. "D" cell battery or larger flashlight (2).
b. Five-pound Class ABC or equivalent fire extinguisher securely mounted in the vehicle in a quick release bracket. One must be accessible to the patient compartment (2).
c. Safety apparel (2).
d. Sharps container, mounted or commercially secured (1).
e. "No Smoking" sign located in the patient compartment (1).
11. Tools and hazard warning devices.
a. Adjustable wrench, 10" (1).
b. Screwdriver, regular #1 size blade (1).
c. Screwdriver, Phillips #1 size blade (1).
d. Spring loaded center punch (1).
e. Hazard warning devices (reflective cone, triangle or approved equivalent) (3 each).
f. Current USDOT approved Emergency Response Guidebook (1).
D. Advanced life support equipment package.
1. EMT-Enhanced package.
a. Drug kit with all controlled drugs authorized for use by the EMS agency's EMT-Enhanced personnel and other appropriately certified advanced level personnel. The drug kit may contain additional drugs if the kit is a standardized box utilized by multiple EMS agencies operating under a joint drug exchange program (1).
b. Assorted intravenous, intramuscular, subcutaneous, and other drug delivery devices and supplies as specified by the agency OMD (1).
2. Advanced-EMT/Intermediate/Paramedic package.
a. Electrocardiogram (ECG) monitor and manual defibrillator capable of synchronized cardioversion and noninvasive external pacing with capability for monitoring and defibrillating adult and pediatric patients (1).
b. ECG monitoring electrodes in adult and pediatric sizes as required by device used. (2 sets each).
c. Defibrillation and pacing electrodes in adult and pediatric sizes as required by device used (2 sets each).
d. Drug kit with all controlled drugs authorized for use by the EMS agency's Advanced EMT, Intermediate, Paramedic and other authorized licensed personnel. The drug kit may contain additional drugs if the kit is a standardized box utilized by multiple EMS agencies operating under a joint drug exchange program (1).
e. Assorted intravenous, intramuscular, subcutaneous, and other drug delivery devices and supplies as specified by the agency OMD (1).
f. Pediatric assessment guides.
3. Neonatal ambulance.
a. ECG monitor and manual defibrillator capable of synchronized cardioversion and noninvasive external pacing with capability for monitoring and defibrillating adult and pediatric patients (1).
b. ECG monitoring electrodes in infant size as required by device used (2 sets).
c. Defibrillation and pacing electrodes in adult and pediatric sizes as required by device used (2 sets each).
d. Drug kit with all controlled drugs authorized for use by the EMS agency's Advanced EMT, Intermediate, Paramedic and other authorized licensed personnel. The drug kit may contain additional drugs if the kit is a standardized box utilized by multiple EMS agencies operating under a joint drug exchange program (1).
e. Assorted intravenous, intramuscular, subcutaneous, and other drug delivery devices and supplies as specified by the agency OMD (1).
4. Advanced airway equipment (EMT-Enhanced, Advanced EMT, Intermediate/Paramedic package).
a. Secondary airway device (e.g., combitube type or supra-glottic devices) or laryngeal mask airway (LMA) (one).
b. Intubation kit to include all of the following items as indicated:
(1) Laryngoscope handle with two sets of batteries, adult and pediatric blades in sizes 0-4 (1 set each).
(2) Magill forceps in adult and pediatric sizes (1 each).
(3) Single use disposable endotracheal tubes in sizes 8.0, 7.0, 6.0, 5.0, 4.0, 3.0, and 2.5m or equivalent sizes (2 each).
(4) Rigid adult stylettes (2).
(5) 10 cc disposable syringes (2).
(6) 5 ml of water soluble surgical lubricant (1).
(7) Secondary confirmation device such as esophageal detection devices, colorimetric evaluation devices, or equivalent (2).
5. Advanced airway neonatal equipment. Intubation kit to include all of the following items as indicated:
a. Laryngoscope handle with two sets of batteries, blades in sizes 0-1 (1 set each).
b. Single-use disposable endotracheal tubes in sizes 4.0, 3.0, and 2.5mm or equivalent sizes (2 each).
c. 10 cc disposable syringes (2).
d. 5 ml of water soluble surgical lubricant (1).
e. Secondary confirmation device such as esophageal detection devices, colorimetric evaluation devices, or equivalent (2).
Statutory Authority
§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-111.4 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 3, eff. January 15, 2003; amended, Virginia Register Volume 29, Issue 1, eff. October 10, 2012.