1997 Annual Report

Board of Trustees Report to the Constituencies 1997

Emergency services

emergency services

Emergency medicine personnel provide immediate care to a trauma patient brought to Loma Linda by ambulance.

1997 highlights
A sexual assault treatment program was established in a specially designed room providing privacy and confidentiality, and preserving the victim’s dignity. The room is stocked with technologically advanced equipment that includes colposcopy, microscopy, video, and still photography.

In conjunction with the sexual assault treatment program, forensic services are provided to law enforcement that include perpetrator exams, such as blood draws on suspects for the determination of alcohol or drug use.

A communication center was established.

Medical advice for injury or illness: This program assists a caller in identifying immediate health-care needs. First aid instruction is provided, as well as referral to the most appropriate level of care.
Referrals: Patient referrals are made for all health-care needs.
Case management: For patients with special needs, such as chronic pain conditions, an interdisciplinary program of case management is provided.

A computerized medical records system was implemented to provide access to a patient’s clinical history, expediting care.

A pediatric emergency medicine special procedure room was developed, preventing the psychosocial impact of other children hearing sounds of discomfort during painful procedures.

Services are now provided to the California Speedway in Fontana for trauma services to critically injured drivers.

The emergency preparedness program was expanded and a disaster medical assistance team developed. In addition, members are trained for dealing with victims of nuclear, biological, or chemical-related incidences.

The Emergency Cardiac Care Center has been streamlined to expedite treatment.

A Level I trauma center designation was received from the American College of Surgeons for emergency services’ commitment to pediatrics.

An emergency medicine missions program provides health care and educational services internationally and locally. This includes such places as Mexico, Papua New Guinea, and Vietnam.