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Knowledge Center

EMS Setup - Devices

Purpose Statement

The Devices section within EMS Setup enables Fire/EMS agencies to configure and manage medical devices that integrate with the ePCR system. This functionality supports automated data capture from monitoring equipment, ensures proper device tracking for compliance purposes, and establishes code mapping for seamless integration between medical devices and patient care documentation.

Background Information

Medical device integration is essential for modern EMS operations, allowing for automatic capture of vital signs, treatment data, and diagnostic information directly into patient care records. The Devices configuration supports various medical equipment including cardiac monitors, defibrillators, blood glucose meters, and other diagnostic devices. Proper setup ensures accurate data transfer, reduces manual entry errors, and supports NEMSIS compliance requirements while maintaining comprehensive equipment inventory tracking.

Required Permissions

Users must have administrative permissions within the EMS module to access and configure device settings. Required permissions typically include:

  • EMS module administrative access
  • Setup section permissions
  • Devices configuration permissions
  • Medical device management permissions
  • Code mapping configuration permissions

Contact your system administrator if you cannot access the Devices configuration section.

Video

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Click on EMS Setup within Incident Documentation.
 
Click on EMS Setup within Incident Documentation.

 
2. Click on Devices.
 
Click on Devices

 
3. Under the ePCR Intergrated Devices section, Click on Add.
 
Under the ePCR Intergrated Devices section, Click on Add

 
4. Enter or select the following information for the device and select Add.
  • (A) Name (required)
  • (B) Agency ID

  • ​​​​​(C) Serial Number

  • (D) Manufacturer
  • (E) Model Number
  • (F) Purchase Date
  • (G) Capabilities (picklist)
     
Enter or select the following information for the device and select Add.
5. Once a device has been added it can be edited by selecting the edit icon or deleted using the delete icon.
 
Once a device has been added it can be edited by selecting the edit icon or deleted using the delete icon.

 
6. Bulk deletion can be accomplished by selecting the devices you want to delete and select the delete icon on the top section of the table.
 
Bulk deletion can be accomplished by selecting the devices you want to delete and select the delete icon on the top section of the table.

 
7. To set Code Marker Mapping, Click on Treatments or Medications and select Add.
 
To set Code Marker Mapping, Click on Treatments or Medications and select Add.

 
8. Click on Monitor Code and Enter the Code coming from Monitor.
 
Click on Monitor Code and Enter the Code coming from Monitor.

 
9. Select Appropriate Treatment or Medication to match the Monitor Mapping.
 
Select Appropriate Treatment or Medication to match the Monitor Mapping

 
10. Click on Add.
 
Click on Add

 
11. Click on Save to Set Each Mapping.
 
Click on Save to Set Each Mapping.

Best Practices

Do:

  • Maintain accurate device serial numbers and model information for warranty and service tracking
  • Configure appropriate capabilities for each device to ensure proper data integration
  • Test code mappings with actual device data before full deployment
  • Document device configurations for training and troubleshooting purposes
  • Regularly review and update device information as equipment is serviced or replaced

Don't:

  • Create devices without proper identification information
  • Map device codes incorrectly, as this affects patient care documentation accuracy
  • Delete devices that have historical data associations without proper backup procedures
  • Ignore capability settings, as these affect integration functionality
  • Configure mappings without understanding the clinical context of the codes

Troubleshooting & FAQs

Q: Why isn't my device automatically capturing data into the ePCR? A: Verify that the device capabilities are properly configured and that code mappings are established for the specific data types you want to capture.

Q: What should I do if a device code isn't mapping to the correct treatment or medication? A: Edit the code mapping by accessing the Code Markers Mapping section and updating the association between the monitor code and the corresponding treatment or medication.

Q: Can I configure multiple devices of the same model? A: Yes, create separate device entries for each individual unit, ensuring unique names and serial numbers for proper identification.

Q: How do I know which capabilities to select for my device? A: Refer to the device manufacturer's specifications and your operational procedures to determine which capabilities should be enabled for integration.

Q: What happens if I delete a device that has been used in patient care records? A: Consider the impact on historical data and reporting requirements. Consult with your administrator about archiving versus deletion for devices with patient care associations.

Additional Considerations

Device Integration Requirements

Before configuring devices:

  • Verify device compatibility with First Due's integration capabilities
  • Ensure proper network connectivity for automated data transfer
  • Confirm device firmware versions support integration features
  • Test integration functionality in a controlled environment

Compliance and Documentation

Device configuration supports:

  • NEMSIS compliance for automated data capture
  • Equipment inventory tracking for regulatory requirements
  • Maintenance and service scheduling coordination
  • Quality assurance for patient care documentation

Training and Implementation

Consider these factors when deploying device integration:

  • Staff training on device operation and data verification
  • Protocols for manual data entry when devices are unavailable
  • Troubleshooting procedures for integration issues
  • Regular testing and validation of automated data capture

Maintenance and Updates

Establish procedures for:

  • Regular review of device configurations and capabilities
  • Updates to code mappings as protocols change
  • Device replacement and configuration transfer processes
  • Monitoring integration performance and error resolution