Essential Paramedic Equipment: Complete Checklist for ALS/BLS Units

Paramedics carry equipment for advanced life support (ALS) and basic life support (BLS). Requirements vary by protocol, but a comprehensive loadout includes:

1. Airway & Breathing

• BVM (adult/pedi/neonate) with reservoirs
• OPA/NPA sets, lubricant
• Supraglottic airways (i-gel, King LT)
• Video laryngoscope + bougie + ETTs (6.0–8.0)
• Suction: portable, rigid + soft catheters
• Oxygen: D/E cylinder + regulator, nasal cannula, NRB, nebulizer mask
• Pulse oximeter, capnography (EtCO2)

2. Circulation

• Monitor/defibrillator (manual + AED mode) + pads, ECG leads, 12-lead cable
• IV/IO kits: catheters (14–24G), EZ-IO driver/needles, pressure bag
• Fluids: NS, LR (1L bags), blood warmer
• Vasopressors: epinephrine, norepinephrine, phenylephrine
• Tourniquets (CAT/SOF-T), junctional (SAM), hemostatic gauze

3. Medications (Per Protocol)

• ACLS: Amiodarone, atropine, adenosine, lidocaine, magnesium
• Respiratory: Albuterol, ipratropium, epinephrine 1:1000, dexamethasone
• Pain: Fentanyl, morphine, ketamine, acetaminophen IV
• Other: Naloxone, dextrose 50%, sodium bicarbonate, calcium, diphenhydramine

4. Monitoring & Diagnostics

• 12-lead ECG + transmission capability
• Glucometer + strips + lancets
• Stethoscope, BP cuff (manual + NIBP)
• Thermometer (temporal/tympanic)
• Portable ultrasound (increasingly common)

5. Immobilization & Extrication

• C-collars (adult/pedi), head blocks, straps
• Long board, scoop stretcher, vacuum mattress
• KED, pediatric immobilization board
• Pelvic binder

6. Trauma / Burn

• Trauma shears, penlight, sharpie
• Burn sheets, sterile dressings, chest seals
• Needle decompression kit (14G × 3.25")

7. Communication & Documentation

• Radio (UHF/VHF/800 MHz), cellular hotspot
• ePCR tablet + backup paper
• Patient care report forms

8. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Gloves (nitrile, multiple sizes), gowns, N95/P100, eye protection
• High-visibility vest, helmet (scene-dependent)

Regular inventory checks, expiration tracking, and scenario-based drills ensure readiness.