Critical care transport teams deliver advanced medical care to patients during helicopter or fixed-wing aircraft transport. These teams typically consist of highly trained medical professionals whose skills and certifications allow them to manage complex cases in the challenging pre-hospital environment. Two common roles within these teams are advanced paramedics specializing in flight operations and registered nurses with specialized training in flight and critical care. Each profession brings a unique set of skills and scope of practice to the team.
Rapid transport and advanced medical intervention during transport are crucial for patients with time-sensitive medical conditions, such as stroke, trauma, and heart attack. The expertise of these specialized teams can significantly impact patient outcomes by providing immediate stabilization and care during transit to definitive care facilities. The development of these specialized transport services has revolutionized emergency medical services, extending the reach of advanced medical care to even the most remote areas.