Ambulances

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Ambulances

Ambulances (/ˈæmbjʊləns/; from the Latin word ambulare, meaning "to walk") are vehicles specifically designed and equipped to provide emergency medical services to individuals in need of immediate medical attention.

Etymology

The term ambulance comes from the Latin word ambulare, which means "to walk". This is a reference to early medical care where patients were moved by lifting or wheeling. The word was first used in English to refer to a hospital, which was followed by the usage referring to a movable hospital. The modern usage referring to a vehicle to transport the sick or injured was first recorded in 1854.

Types of Ambulances

There are several types of ambulances used around the world, each designed for specific situations or to handle particular medical conditions. These include:

  • Ground Ambulance: This is the most common type of ambulance, which operates on the ground and is usually a modified van or truck.
  • Air Ambulance: This type of ambulance operates in the air, either as a helicopter or a fixed-wing aircraft, and is used for long-distance or inaccessible patient transport.
  • Water Ambulance: This type of ambulance operates on water and is used in areas where ground or air transport is not possible or practical.

Related Terms

  • Emergency Medical Services: This is a system that provides emergency medical care to those in need. It is activated by a call for help (e.g., a 911 call in the United States).
  • Paramedic: This is a healthcare professional who provides emergency medical services, often in an ambulance setting.
  • Emergency Medical Technician (EMT): This is a type of healthcare provider who is trained to provide pre-hospital emergency medical services.

External links

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