3. Primary Assessment: Rapid Cyber Threat Recognition

Bob J
Sep 10
1 min read

During a call, paramedics rapidly perform a primary assessment: Airway, Breathing, Circulation (ABCs). This quick scan for life threats allows them to intervene immediately, buying time for more detailed evaluation and care. If a patient isn’t breathing, everything else can wait.

Translating the Protocol:

EMS providers should be equally adept at recognizing the “ABCs” of a cyber threat. Sudden system slowdowns, pop-up warnings, or requests for credentials can signal an urgent cyberattack, such as ransomware or malware. Responding quickly is vital to contain damage.

Practical Example:

While entering a chart, your laptop suddenly displays a ransom message and locks you out. The right move isn’t to try random fixes or ignore the warning—it’s to immediately disconnect from the network (to limit spread), notify IT or your security officer, and follow your agency’s incident response plan.

Protocol in Action:

- Be alert to signs of trouble: unexpected password requests, missing files, or systems running abnormally slow.

- Know how to quickly disconnect from Wi-Fi or power down a device if you suspect an attack.

- Immediately report incidents—just as you’d call for help with a critical patient.

Key Takeaway: The faster a life threat is recognized, the better the outcome. Cybersecurity requires the same vigilance and urgency as clinical care.