Purpose Statement

To demonstrate how to setup an External Resource to be accessed from within an ePCR. External Resources allow agencies to provide field personnel with quick access to important reference materials, protocols, or websites directly from the ePCR interface, supporting clinical decision-making and operational efficiency.

Background Information

External Resources functionality enables agencies to integrate essential reference materials and tools directly into their ePCR workflow. This feature supports two primary resource types: external websites accessed via HTML or web links, and PDF files uploaded directly to First Due. External Resources appear within the ePCR interface, providing field personnel with immediate access to protocols, reference guides, contact information, or other critical resources without leaving the patient care documentation workflow. This integration enhances clinical efficiency and ensures consistent access to standardized resources across all ePCR users.

Required Permissions

• Administrator access to EMS Setup module
• Configuration permissions for External Resources
• Write permissions for resource creation and management

Video

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Navigate to EMS Setup

Click on EMS Setup to access the configuration options.

2. Access External Resources Section

Click on External Resources to begin configuring your external resource links.

3. Add New Resource

Click on Add Resource to create a new external resource entry.

4. Enter Resource Name

Click on the name field and enter a descriptive title that will appear to providers within the ePCR interface. Use clear, identifiable names that immediately indicate the resource purpose.

5. Configure Resource Type

You have two options for configuring your external resource:

Option A: HTML or Web Link Click on URL/Link field and enter the complete web address for external websites or web-based resources.

Option B: PDF File Upload Click on PDF to upload a PDF document directly to First Due.
Click on Drop files here to upload to select and upload your PDF file from your device.

6. Mark as Current Protocol (PDF Only)

For PDF resources, toggle on the "Is Current Protocol" button to designate the PDF as a current protocol document. This classification helps organize and identify active protocol resources within the ePCR interface.

7. Save External Resource

After configuring either the URL/Link or PDF upload, click Add to save your external resource configuration to make it available within the ePCR interface.

8. Manage Existing Resources

The resource management interface provides several options for organizing your external resources:

Rearrange Order: Use the reorder functionality to arrange the sequence in which resources appear inside the ePCR

Edit Resources: Modify the display name or URL/PDF for each existing resource

Delete Resources: Remove resources that are no longer needed

9. Access Resources in ePCR

Inside of an ePCR, providers will have quick and easy access to each configured external resource through the integrated resource menu.

Best Practices

Resource Selection and Organization:

• Choose resources that directly support clinical decision-making or operational efficiency
• Organize resources in order of frequency of use or clinical priority
• Use clear, descriptive display names that immediately identify the resource purpose
• Regularly review and update resource relevance and accessibility

PDF File Management:

• Use high-quality PDF files that are readable on mobile devices
• Optimize file sizes for quick loading while maintaining readability
• Use consistent naming conventions for uploaded PDF resources
• Regularly audit PDF files for accuracy and current versions
• Ensure PDF content is up-to-date with current protocols and procedures

Protocol Classification:

• Use the "Is Current Protocol" toggle to clearly identify active protocol documents
• Maintain consistency in protocol versioning and updates
• Regularly review protocol status to ensure current versions are marked appropriately
• Remove or update outdated protocol designations when procedures change

URL Management:

• Verify external website URLs are current and accessible
• Test resource links regularly to ensure continued functionality
• Use secure (HTTPS) URLs when available for external resources
• Document URL changes and update resources promptly when sites relocate

User Experience Optimization:

• Limit the number of resources to prevent interface clutter
• Group related resources logically within the display order
• Ensure resource titles are clear and searchable
• Gather feedback from field personnel on resource usefulness and accessibility

Troubleshooting & FAQs

Common Issues:

Q: PDF file is not uploading properly A: Ensure the PDF file is not corrupted and is a standard PDF format. Check file size and try uploading again if the process fails.

Q: External website URL is not working in ePCR A: Verify the URL is complete and accessible from your network. Check for HTTPS requirements and ensure the website allows embedding or external access.

Q: Cannot access External Resources setup A: Confirm you have appropriate administrator permissions for EMS Setup functionality. Contact your system administrator if access issues persist.

Q: "Is Current Protocol" toggle is not available A: This toggle only appears for PDF resources. Ensure you have selected the PDF option rather than URL/Link for your external resource.

Q: Resources are not appearing in the correct order A: Use the resource management tools to adjust the sequence. Changes should be reflected immediately in active ePCR sessions.

Q: PDF resource is not displaying correctly A: Verify the PDF file uploaded successfully and is not corrupted. Test the PDF file independently to ensure it opens properly.

Q: Resources are not visible to field personnel A: Check that resources are properly saved and activated. Verify that field users have appropriate permissions to access external resources within ePCR.

Q: Need to update an existing resource A: Use the edit functionality to modify display names, URLs, or replace PDF files. Changes will be reflected in the ePCR interface immediately.

Related Articles

• Starting a New ePCR
  
• Setting Up The ePCR - ePCR Sections