How a 999 call is handled by the call centre - Heart Attack Scenario

🚨 Simulated Emergency Call – Suspected Heart Attack

This module features a simulated 999 call recorded in an actual ambulance control centre. The call involves a patient who may be having a heart attack. It demonstrates how the call handler gathers key information and offers immediate advice to support the patient before the ambulance arrives.

For confidentiality reasons, the call screen is not shown, but the audio reveals the full conversation and protocols followed.

📞 What Does the Operator Ask?

The operator first confirms the patient's basic condition, then collects essential details such as:

• Whether the patient is breathing and awake
• The exact location of the emergency
• The patient’s age and breathing status
• Whether the patient is clammy, vomiting, or changing colour
• Past history of heart conditions like angina or heart attacks
• Recent use of medications

🩺 Aspirin Advice

The operator then assesses whether aspirin can be safely administered:

1. Checks for aspirin availability
2. Confirms no allergies or recent signs of internal bleeding (e.g. vomiting blood or black stools)
3. Advises the patient to chew 300mg aspirin (or four 75mg tablets)

The operator reminds the caller that while an ambulance is being dispatched, there may be a wait of up to 40 minutes. They offer clear instructions on what to do if the patient’s condition worsens:

• If the patient vomits or becomes drowsy, lay them on their side
• Only call 999 again if the condition deteriorates or if help is no longer needed

This simulation highlights the importance of calm, clear communication, early aspirin administration (if safe), and monitoring the patient until professional help arrives. Early action can significantly improve survival in cardiac emergencies.