I developed and implemented a Shift Completion Report. Each crew had to complete this simple, one-page report at the end of its tour of duty. Supervisors were responsible for checking the completed forms each shift. Crews initially expressed displeasure over my initiation of additional paperwork. However, when they no longer found problems with their units when they came on duty, the grumbling ceased.
Quality begins at home.
If your crews keep their units clean, they'll also exhibit a clean, professional attitude. If they treat their unit with disrespect, odds are they'll do the same to their patients. Shift completion reports and other quality benchmarks should serve as subtle reminders to keep us all on the right track. If crews choose not to follow the quality benchmarks and procedures in place at your service, remind them there are plenty of dirty, sleazy cabs in need of drivers on the midnight shift. He has served as a regional EMS director, ambulance service operations director and paramedic.