BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — With COVID-19, EMTs always face a risk.
"There's always potential for exposure any time you go out on any call," Scott Karaszewski of AMR said.
It's why AMR had to make improvements to protocols.
That starts with when they receive a call.
"Trying to trouble shoot if it's a high-risk call or a regular call," Karaszewski said. "There are certain buzz words we're looking for. [If they] have a fever, [or] shortness of breath."
The EMTs are also wearing more gear. Multiple masks, face shields, gloves, and surgical gowns are all donned on a COVID-19 call.
"This is mostly for if somebody has it (COVID-19), or has a high likelihood of having it," said Hailey Battaglia, an EMT at AMR.
These improvements to protocol aren't out of the ordinary for AMR.
Karaszewski says this is just a way of relearning procedures not often used.
"It just re-enhances the training that's been out there," Karaszewski said.
Cleaning procedures have also been established for the ambulances.
