Notfalltüröffnungen durch die Feuerwehr – Analyse von 9917 Einsätzen der Notfallrettung in einer Großstadt

In situations where residents in their homes or apartments cannot be reached by phone or in person for an extended period, this may lead to an alert to the emergency medical service or fire department. In such scenarios, it is typically assumed that the person is in a helpless situation.

Missions were analyzed over a period of one year in which a forcible entry by fire brigade was necessary due to a request for assistance in addition to medical services being alerted (01 April 2021–31 March 2022). A total of 9917 incidents were evaluated concerning patient characteristics, emergency medical service care, and preclinical diagnosis.

Incorrect use accounted for 36.9%; patient contact was documented in 63.1% of cases. In 35% of instances, transportation to hospital occurred, 16% received outpatient treatment, and 12.1% resulted in a declaration of death. (Suspected) life-threating events were present in 6.7%; emergency physician involvement was required in 9.4% of calls. Common documentation included unclear illnesses, lower extremity trauma and stroke. Patient age and time of day did not influence transportation frequency.

Missions that are received by the emergency medical dispatch center on the basis of such a request for help are complex both in the legal context, in terms of dealing with the emergency call message, and in the medical context. Prolonged prehospital times due to elaborate rescue operations and complex medical conditions present unique medical challenges, requiring careful selection of the destination hospital.