Short Answer 
EMS personnel should wear appropriate PPE including gloves, an N-95 mask, and a face shield before transporting a patient. During transport, isolating the patient in a separate vehicle or isolating them in the ambulance while ensuring proper ventilation is critical to minimize the risk of infection. After transport, thorough disinfection of the ambulance using EPA-approved disinfectants is essential to eliminate any potential virus traces.
Step 1: Prepare with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Before any patient transport, EMS personnel must don appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure their safety and that of the patient. This should include:
- Gloves – to prevent direct contact with potentially infectious materials.
- N-95 mask – to filter out airborne particles and protect against respiratory infections.
- Face shield – to protect eyes and face from exposure to droplets.
Step 2: Isolate the Patient During Transport
To minimize the risk of spreading Covid-19, it is crucial to transport the patient in a way that limits exposure to others. This includes:
- Transporting the patient in a separate vehicle if possible, to avoid contact with other individuals.
- Isolating the patient in the back of the ambulance, ensuring they remain as far from personnel as feasible.
- Maintaining proper ventilation in the transport vehicle to further reduce the risk of airborne transmission.
Step 3: Disinfect After Transport
Once the patient has been transported, it is essential to carry out thorough disinfection of the ambulance to eliminate any lingering traces of the virus. This process should include:
- Using EPA-approved disinfectants to clean all surfaces that may have been in contact with the patient.
- Paying special attention to high-touch areas such as door handles, seat belts, and medical equipment.
- Following up with any additional safety protocols or recommendations from health authorities regarding sanitization.