Accuracy of estimation of external blood loss by EMS personnel.

BACKGROUND

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel provide care in the out-of-hospital setting. The EMS report, including blood volume estimates, influences hospital management. Our objective was to assess the accuracy of EMS blood volume estimates.

METHODS

In this prospective, observational study, EMS providers were asked to view four simulated blood loss scenarios in random order. Each scenario used a specific volume of spilled blood corresponding to the loss likely to cause the four classes of hemorrhagic shock. Estimates are reported using median and interquartile ranges.

RESULTS

Ninety-two EMS providers gave 368 estimates. Only 8% were within 20% of the actual volume. Furthermore, only 24% were within 50% of actual volume. There was no correlation between accuracy and any demographic variable, level of training, or years of EMS experience.

CONCLUSION

EMS personnel are unable to estimate "blood" volume accurately irrespective of level of training.