Can somebody please tell me what ALS means?

[BLSBoy]

When I was an NJ MICP, it meant Ain't Lifting Stuff.

 

[18G]

I believe more in just calling it patient care but when u have different levels of EMS providers u need a way to distiguish between capabilities which is where the ALS and BLS reference comes from.

Generally, invasive is perceived als and non-invasive is bls.

I dont know why ppl have such a problem with differentiating with these terms.

 

[usalsfyre]

I dont know why ppl have such a problem with differentiating with these terms.

The problem I have with it is that it leads to the belief that they are somehow independent of one another (EMT's "save" paramedics) and that you must do one before the other (BLS before ALS).

I guarantee you your average paramedic has a better grasp on the basics than an EMT-B of similar experience and intelligence, and there are times when it's appropriate to skip over "BLS" interventions and go straight to "ALS" care (epi in anaphylaxis, needle thoarcostomy in tension pneumo and occasionally nothing short if a surgical airway right off the bat will do).

 

[TransportJockey]

I believe more in just calling it patient care but when u have different levels of EMS providers u need a way to distiguish between capabilities which is where the ALS and BLS reference comes from.

Generally, invasive is perceived als and non-invasive is bls.

I dont know why ppl have such a problem with differentiating with these terms.

By your definition, NM has no BLS then, as EMT-Bs are allowed certain invasive skills. (IM/SQ, CBG, MLA/LMA/King)

 

[firetender]

ALS defined

Always Looking Somewhereelse

 

[18G]

I didnt claim my definition was absolute... It was qualified with the word generally. There are exceptions.

We all know the difference and its determined by education, skill set, and certification.