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.
2. Click on Devices.
3. 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)
5. 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.
7. 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.
9. Select Appropriate Treatment or Medication to match the Monitor Mapping.
10. Click on Add.
11. 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
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