Emergency Medical Services ECG03
COVID-19 Exposures
If I test positive for COVID-19, when can I go back to work?
Where can I get tested for COVID-19?
Testing is recommended for those with symptoms, or in select cases, for those with high-risk exposures. Tests are available through one of the drive-through testing sites by making an appointment online (LACOVID), through your employer, or through your primary care provider.
What is active monitoring?
This differs from self-monitoring where all on-duty EMS providers monitor themselves for fever by taking their temperature twice a day and monitor for symptoms of COVID-19. See CDC’s guidance on monitoring and LA County EMS Agency’s Guidance for more information.
What is considered a high-risk exposure and what should I do if I have experienced one?
A high-risk exposure is one where the EMS responder does not have the proper PPE donned and an aerosol generating procedure (AGP) is performed on a confirmed or suspected COVID-19 patient. AGPs include CPAP, nebulized treatments, suctioning, bag-mask ventilation, laryngoscopy, advanced airway placement, and chest compressions. If this occurs, the EMS provider should self-isolate at home for 14 days and perform active monitoring as described in the recommendations from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. See COVID-19 Update #5 for more information.