POLICY STATEMENT:

The following guidelines have been established to assist the ECRN or Medical Control Physician in the proper use of the M.E.R.C.I. radio system. The guidelines were adopted from the Rules and Regulations of the Federal Communications Commission and the Illinois Department of Public Health.

GOAL/PURPOSE:

To ensure the proper use of the M.E.R.C.I. radio and provide operational guidance to the ECRN and Medical Control Physician.

POLICY/PROCEDURE:

1. Do not use "10" codes during any radio transmission.

2. Only ECRN's and Medical Control Physicians are permitted to receive patient information and transmit verbal orders via M.E.R.C.I. radio.

3. Insure M.E.R.C.I. radio recorder is on and operating correctly.

4. End all radio communications by clearly stating the current time and the radio call sign labeled on the M.E.R.C.I. radio.

5. For additional information on "Communications Etiquette," see page 18 of the EMS Systems Policy and Procedure Manual.

6. Difficulties encountered during radio operations should be immediately reported to the respective EMS System Coordinator.