CASE STUDY | G4S HEALTH SERVICES | AUSTRALIA

G4S HEALTH SERVICESCOMPLEX PATIENT VEHICLE (CPV)

In late 2012, G4S Health Services, one of Victoria’s largest and most experienced non-emergency patient transport providers, increased the versatility of our fleet of 60 specially equipped patient transport vehicles with the acquisition of a CPV – Complex Patient Vehicle.

The CPV is specially designed to convey patients who need more space during transit. This can be as a result of the equipment travelling with them (e.g. oversized wheelchair) or because of the weight, proportions or other special needs of the patient – any circumstances that make transportation of the patient in a standard ambulance impractical, uncomfortable or unsafe for either patient or staff.

About the Vehicle

Our CPV is a scrupulously maintained Mercedes Sprinter, equipped as a standard high-acuity ambulance vehicle with additional specialised equipment including:

�� A DHS 600PLS power lift stretcher capable of carrying patients up to 500kg

�� A bariatric wheelchair capable of carrying patients up to 295kg

�� A specialist power lifter for IABP and ECMO devices

�� A Hoverjack, Hovermat and EZ slide that allow patients to be moved safely and with dignity onto the stretcher

�� Standard and bariatric patient harnesses�� Air suspension system for loading assistance�� Extra space for additional on-board equipment.

With this unique vehicle in our fleet G4S Health Services can transport a broader range of patients in privacy, dignity and safety.

Our Clinical CareG4S Health Services staff are trained to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the vehicle’s specialised equipment and correct manual handling procedures for bariatric patients.

Our vehicle can be staffed by high, medium or low acuity crews, depending on the patient’s needs.

High acuity patients will be accompanied by one patient transport officer and one NEPT Division 1 registered nurse with an ICU/CCU/emergency qualification and recent experience in the critical care setting, as per the current clinical practice protocols for non-emergency patient transport.

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G4S Health ServicesEmail: health@au.g4s.comPhone: 1300 888 801Website: http://health.au.g4s.com

CASE STUDY

Frequently Asked Questions

Isn’t the CPV only for bariatric patients?

No – the CPV can be used for the transport of any patient who requires extra space en route, either due to the patient’s weight, injury or physical proportions, or because extra space is required for medical equipment travelling with the patient.

What kind of patient is the CPV suitable for?

The CPV can convey all patients up to high acuity as defined in the NEPT clinical practice protocols, except those requiring lights and sirens en route. Cardiac monitoring can be undertaken en route if needed.

What does high acuity mean?

A high-acuity patient is defined as a patient for whom:

�� An assessment has been made by a referring medical practitioner that the patient is stable for the duration of the transport;

�� There is no likelihood that the patient will require transport under emergency conditions;

�� The patient does not meet the criteria of an emergency patient;

�� There is an illness or injury, which requires active monitoring or treatment by a nurse or medical practitioner, including:• mechanical ventilation• an intravenous infusion of a vasoactive drug• a patient with tracheostomy• a patient with a central or arterial line• a device which supports the circulation

(intra-aortic balloon pump or extra-corporeal membrane oxygenation)

Can the CPV convey children?

Yes, it can as long as they fall within the weight restrictions of the equipment. However it’s best to call our 24 hour Communications Centre ahead of time, so

we can talk through any special requirements, especially for much younger patients who normally need to go in a car seat.

What else do I need to be aware of before I book?

For inter-hospital transfers, there should be no problem with using the CPV.

However for transport to or from patients’ homes, you will need to be sure that there is sufficient space within the home for the specialist stretcher. If you are unsure, call our 24 hour Communications Centre and we can talk you through it beforehand so that the patient is not inconvenienced on the day.

Do I need to book in advance?

Given the levels of demand we often experience, it is best to book a day ahead if possible. For shorter notice or urgent CPV transports, call the Communications Centre and speak to one of our staff.

How do I book the CPV?

Because we need more information about patients with complex needs, there is a special booking form for the CPV.

Speak to your local transport office or call our 24 hour Communications Centre on 1300 888 801 for more information.

“G4S Health Services staff

are trained to ensure the safe

and efficient operation of the

vehicle’s specialised equipment

and correct manual handling

procedures for bariatric patients.”

G4S HEALTH SERVICES | AUSTRALIA EXPERTISE

Expertise Performance Integrity Best People CustomerFocus

Teamwork & Collaboration