Minimum standards for transport of critically ill patients.

Safe transport of the critically ill patient requires accurate assessment and stabilisation of the patient before transport. There should be appropriate planning of transport and optimum utilisation of communications. Safe transport requires the deployment of appropriately trained staff with essential equipment, and effective liaison between referring, transporting and receiving staff at a senior level. Clinical management during transport must aim to at least equal management at the point of referral and must prepare the patient for admission to the receiving service.