R426-10-2700. Patient Compartment General Standards

  (1) A licensed air ambulance provider shall ensure that a permitted air ambulance has the following:

  (a) a climate control system to prevent temperature variations that would adversely affect patient care;

  (b) the air ambulance shall have an adequate interior lighting system so that patient care can be given and the patient's status monitored;

  (c) for each place where a patient may be positioned, at least one electrical power outlet or other power source that is capable of operating all electrically powered medical equipment without compromising the operation of any electrical air ambulance equipment;

  (e) a back-up source of electrical power or batteries capable of operating all electrically powered life-support equipment for at least one hour;

  (f) an appropriate power source which is sufficient to meet the requirements of the complete specialized equipment package without compromising the operation of any electrical air ambulance equipment;

  (g) an entry that allows for patient loading and unloading without excessive maneuvering and without compromising the operation of monitoring systems, intravenous lines, or manual or mechanical ventilation;

  (h) If an isolette is used during patient transport, the operator shall ensure that the isolette is able to be opened from its secured in-flight position in order to provide full access to the patient;

  (i) adequate access and necessary space to maintain the patient's airway and to provide adequate ventilatory support by an attendant from the secured, seat-belted position within the air ambulance;

  (j) a configuration that allows for rapid exit of personnel and patients that will not allow obstruction from stretchers and medical equipment;

  (k) an interior of the air ambulance that is sanitary and in good working order during use;

  (l) secure positioning of cardiac monitors, defibrillators, and external pacers so that displays are visible to medical personnel; and

  (m) provision for medications that maintains temperatures within manufacturer recommendations. Glass containers shall not be used unless required by medication specifications and be properly vented.

  (2) Each air ambulance operator shall ensure that all medical equipment is appropriate to the air medical service's scope and mission and maintained in working order according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

  (3) All permitted air ambulances shall be equipped to provide patient care according to approved medical protocols.