Click here to download our “10 best apps for EMS” infographic, and find out how technology is going to impact EMS in the future by reading analysis from experts in, “EMS in 2030: What technologies will be widely available?”
This article, originally published on Aug. 27, 2014, has been updated.
By EMS1 Staff
From using your cellphone to locate the nearest AED, to putting a medical database squarely in your pocket, mobile apps are changing the way EMS providers operate in the field.
The smartphone technology, much of which is free, means critical information is at your fingertips — if you know where to look. We’ve rounded up some of the most useful apps for EMS providers to help them stay up to speed on the latest tools out there.
And if we missed an app you rely on, let us know in the comments below.
1. Medscape
Medscape provides prescription medication and medical condition references, as well as a drug interaction checker and a variety of medical calculators. All the articles on Medscape are written by subject matter experts and the material is carefully curated. This app is available in the iTunes store and Google Play store.
2. 12-Lead ECG Challenge
The 12-Lead ECG Challenge focuses on STEMI and STEMI mimic and begins with a patient presentation and the 12-lead obtained in either the prehospital or hospital environment. Users can tackle five, 10 or 20 cases at a time. This app is available in the iTunes store and Google Play store.
3. OmniMedix Medical Calculator
OmniMedix was created by a practicing street paramedic with a design that allows the user to access medical dosage calculations within seconds instead of fumbling through endless menus. This app is available in the iTunes store and Google Play store.
4. PulsePoint Respond
The app notifies users who have indicated they are trained in CPR if someone nearby is having a cardiac emergency and may require assistance. This app is available in the iTunes store and Google Play store.
5. ERG 2016
The Emergency Response Guidebook provides first responders with a go-to resource to help deal with hazmat incidents. The ERG contains an indexed list of dangerous goods and the associated ID number, the general hazards they pose and recommended safety precautions. This app is available in the iTunes store and Google Play store.
6. PulsePoint AED
PulsePoint AED was designed to build a growing registry of AEDs that can be used during cardiac emergencies. When used with PulsePoint Respond, bystanders can locate the person having a medical emergency, as well as a nearby AED. This app is available in the iTunes store and Google Play store.
7. Pedi-STAT
Pedi-STAT is a rapid reference for RNs, paramedics, physicians and other healthcare professionals caring for pediatric patients in the emergency or critical care environment. This app is available in the iTunes store and Google Play store.
8. Full Code PRO
Full Code Pro, created by the American Heart Association makes it easy to document critical interventions such as starting CPR, placing advanced airways, delivering a defibrillation shock or administering medication. This app is available in the iTunes store.
9. Pulsara
The app links your emergency response team with a tap – eliminating unnecessary communications. Your team is on the same page in real time with a universal clock. This app is available in the iTunes store and Google Play store.
10. EMS1.com
Here at EMS1, we created our own iPhone app to provide EMS professionals with a free resource for breaking EMS news, expert analysis of industry trends, tips, photo reports and the entire archive of expert EMS1 columnist articles. This app is available in the iTunes store and Google Play store.