Life Flight Network - Portland Oregon helicopter and fixed wing medical transport service

Ride Along (RAL) Guidelines


Goals

  • To improve relationships and perception of Life Flight Network
  • To gain an understanding of the care of the patient in the Air Medical setting
  • To understand the critical care aspects of Air Medical Transport and challenges of patient care during air transport
  • Educational opportunity to understand the benefits of air transport and care rendered by the air medical crew

Participation

  • The Life Flight Network ride-along-program (RAL) is available for local paramedic training programs (10 students per program), and other health care professionals on a case-by-case basis whom the experience relates to their work and they would benefit from the RAL. The final decision of any participant rests with the Operations Manager.
  • The participant is considered an observer only, and will not be involved in patient care. It is very important to remain quiet during flights as much as possible due to in-flight safety standards.
  • Riders will be required to show proof of completion of a HIPPA training program. They need to bring this certificate on the day of the ride. If the rider does not come with a copy of their HIPPA training, they will have to complete the training at LF using the web-based program we have. They will not be able to ride prior to completion of the HIPPA training. The training is approx. 1 hr. This is in compliance with JCAHO & CAMTS.
  • The participant must be in good health and must not be suffering from any illness or injury, including cold, flu, or respiratory infection on the day of their ride along shift. Every rider must bring a copy of their current TB vaccination (current is within the last year).
  • Participants must weigh 225 lbs or less fully dressed due to operational limits and be > 18 years of age.
  • Operational restrictions vary with each flight. The pilot and medical crew may restrict the participant from some flights. Participants must also be aware they may be left at a scene or referring / receiving facility or agency due to operational restrictions.
  • The participant is expected to act professionally at all times. ALL patient information is to be kept completely confidential. Review of observer HIPPA guidelines will occur prior to flying with crew and non disclosure agreement signed. No cell phone camera or camera use allowed with ride-a-long.
  • Participants must wear appropriate attire. Dark pants, dark work shoes or boots (no clogs or sandals), light colored collared shirt (preferably white, light grey or blue). EMS uniforms or jackets from your company are encouraged. Jeans, scrubs and lab jackets are not appropriate. A LFN nametag will be issued.
  • Participants will generally arrive at the base at 0800 and depart at 2000. Other hours shall be considered on a case-by-case basis.
  • Please bring your lunch or dinner with you. There is a microwave and refrigerator available for use.
  • The Release of Liability and Confidentiality form and a safety briefing must be completed prior to boarding any aircraft.
  • The participant should call in to the Life Flight Network base (503-678-4343) the evening before their scheduled visit to confirm helicopter availability. Maintenance and other circumstances that cannot be predicted in advance may prohibit the participants' attendance. If this occurs, the Life Flight Network will reschedule the rider as soon as possible. If a participant does not show up for their scheduled RAL they will forfeit their opportunity to do a future ride-a-long, 24 hour advanced notice of cancellation preferred. No show, No call - No rescheduling allowed.

If you have any questions, concerns or need directions, please feel free to contact The Life Flight Network at 503-678-4343. We look forward to your visit.