What action should be taken if BLS transport time to the hospital exceeds 10 minutes?

In situations where Basic Life Support (BLS) transport time to the hospital exceeds 10 minutes, it is crucial to call for Advanced Life Support (ALS) assistance. This decision is based on the fact that prolonged transport times can indicate a potential deterioration in the patient’s condition, particularly if they are experiencing critical symptoms or require advanced interventions that BLS providers are not equipped to perform.

ALS teams are trained to provide additional medical care, such as advanced airway management, medication administration, and monitoring of cardiac rhythms, which may be essential for the patient's survival and stabilization during transport. By requesting ALS assistance, the on-scene BLS team can ensure that higher levels of care are on the way, optimizing patient outcomes.

While continuing to the hospital without further assistance is an option, it may neglect the immediate medical needs of the patient if they require advanced interventions. Reevaluating the necessity of transport might lead to delays when the patient is in critical condition, and diverting to a clinic may not provide the comprehensive care needed, especially for serious emergencies. Thus, calling for ALS assistance is the most appropriate action when faced with extended transport times, ensuring that the patient receives the best potential care en route to the hospital.