What are the general expectations for medical readiness during NFPA 1403 evolutions?

• A. EMS standby only.
• B. Fully equipped hospital on-site at all times.
• C. A medical plan with EMS standby, accessible first aid, and a procedure to treat injuries and transport as needed.
• D. Medical readiness is optional for small evolutions.

Answer: (C)

Medical readiness during NFPA 1403 evolutions must be a complete plan that includes EMS standby, accessible first aid, and a defined procedure to treat injuries and arrange transport as needed. This ensures that any injury can be evaluated and cared for promptly and that there’s a clear path to get a person to appropriate medical care without delay. Having only EMS standby or insisting on a hospital on-site at all times isn’t practical or required for every evolution, and treating medical readiness as optional would leave crews vulnerable to injuries. The overall expectation is a documented, integrated medical plan that covers immediate care, escalation, and transport to care as the situation dictates.