When should you make contacts during the flight process?

Making contacts when you lift with a patient en route to the receiving facility is critical for ensuring proper communication and coordination. This is the point at which the medical team and receiving facility can be updated about the patient's condition, any interventions that have taken place, and estimated time of arrival. Sharing this information helps ensure that the receiving team is prepared for the patient's arrival, making the transition smoother and more efficient. Supporting data gathered during this phase of transport is vital for patient care continuity and facilitates necessary preparations at the receiving end.

In contrast, making contacts before takeoff during briefing focuses primarily on planning and preparation rather than real-time patient updates. Similarly, contacting after landing may not provide the receiving facility enough information to ready their team effectively in advance of the patient’s arrival. Mid-flight check-ins are also important, but it's the point of lifting with a patient that represents a crucial moment for effective, real-time communication with the receiving facility, making it the most relevant time to establish necessary contacts.