During an emergency call for potential aggression, what is the first priority for an EMD?

The first priority for an Emergency Medical Dispatcher (EMD) during a call for potential aggression is ensuring the safety of the patient and others involved. In situations where aggression may be present, the environment could be hazardous, not only for the individuals directly involved but also for the dispatcher and responders who may be deployed to the scene.

By focusing on safety first, the EMD can assess the level of threat and determine if law enforcement or additional support is needed while still gathering pertinent information without putting anyone at risk. Safety assessments can involve asking about the presence of weapons, the demeanor of the aggressor, and the location of the incident. This approach also helps the dispatcher to prioritize resources appropriately.

Only after safety has been assessed and secured should the dispatcher move on to gather detailed information, decide on medical interventions, or redirect the call to law enforcement if the situation warrants it. Thus, the emphasis on safety as the primary concern aligns with the overall goal of protecting life and minimizing danger during such urgent calls.