Clinical Flags

Question 1

What combination of symptoms indicate a potential ectopic pregnancy?

Answer 1

Women of reproductive age presenting with any combination of pain in the abdomen/pelvis/shoulder tip/rectum, PV bleeding or dizziness/syncope.

Question 2

Pts that initially meet abnormal vital sign criteria but respond well to treatment…

Answer 2

May be reassessed and potentially suitable for non-transport.

Question 3

What are the 4 “immunocompromised” conditions included in the yellow flags?

Answer 3

1. Chemotherapy or radiotherapy
2. Organ transplant
3. HIV/AIDS
4. Rheumatoid arthritis therapies

Question 4

List the 5 vital sign Red Flags that mandate transport.

Answer 4

HR >120
RR >30
SBP <90
SPO2 <90
GCS <13 or <15 if 15 or younger

Question 5

List the 10 Specific Condition Red Flags that mandate transport.

Answer 5

1. Stridor
2. First presentation seizure
3. Anaphylaxis (resolved/possible/post-adrenaline)
4. ACS (even if resolved)
5. Ectopic pregnancy
6. Primary obstetric issue
7. Stroke/TIA
8. Sudden onset headache
9. Unable to walk if usually able
10. Post-tonsillectomy bleed up to 14 days post-operation

Question 6

List the 7 Yellow Flags.

Answer 6

1. Ongoing patient or carer concern
2. Infection not responding to CBC
3. Immunocompromised with ?infection
4. Surgical procedure within past 14 days
5. Significant unexplained pain >4.
6. Syncope (asymptomatic, normal VSS/ECG)

Question 7

What do Yellow Flags signify, and what criteria must be satisfied before this can be implemented?

Answer 7

Yellow flags signify a need to attend hospital or their GP within 2 hours via their own transport arrangements.
The patient must be able to attend hospital/GP and must be read the Referral Advice script.

Question 8

If a patient calls for an ambulance, but does not meet any yellow or red flags, what is the recommendation?

Answer 8

If assessed as being suitable for non-transport, recommend follow up with LMO within 48hrs.