FAQs & Resources | EMS Center of Excellence

As a pre-hospital care provider, you play an important role in the overall care of our patients. The information below may assist you with bringing patients to our adult and pediatric emergency departments. If you have further questions or concerns, please contact Eric Clauss, Director, at eric.clauss@vanderbilt.edu.

For links to Vanderbilt emergency departments, see below:

Trauma Guidelines Video

This video outlines Vanderbilt's trauma intake procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the capacity of your emergency departments?

Vanderbilt's adult and pediatric emergency departments are large, serving over 130,000 patients annually.

How can I expedite patient transfer into Vanderbilt?

If you are a hospital or physician and need to transfer a patient, see the links below:
Adult: For Referring Providers - Transfer Center
Children's: Comprehensive Regional Pediatric Center

If you are an EMS provider, it is important to radio in your report 10 to 15 minutes before your arrival.

What should I communicate when placing a radio report?
When calling in your radio report 10 to 15 minutes before arriving, try to include the following:

Specifics about the patient's condition and symptoms. Keep your descriptions simple and short.

Patient's weight (for pediatrics)

Chief complaint and mechanism of injury

Assessment and neuro status

Vital signs. Report any episodes of hypoxia or hypotension.

Treatment and any medications given

Significant medical history

Why was I asked questions at bedside that I already answered in my radio report?

Vanderbilt's emergency departments are large facilities with many teams. The group handling your radio report will not be the same as the one requesting information at the patient's bedside.

What is needed from me after arrival at the emergency department?
You can take a few simple actions to support patient transfer into the emergency department:

Lower IV poles and trauma rails and remove any other equipment prior to entering the ED bay.

During the move from the stretcher, stay on the patient's left side.

After entering the bay, please be patient and remain in the room until you are asked to report. When giving your report, make sure it is clear, precise and spoken loudly enough for the entire team to hear.

What types of training and education can I receive from the EMS Center of Excellence? What other services do you offer?

Vanderbilt offers comprehensive training on emergency care covering adult and pediatric patients. See our calendar for current classes or read our class descriptions.