What is the proper procedure if you encounter a vehicle with a flat tire while transporting a patient?

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In the scenario of encountering a vehicle with a flat tire while transporting a patient, the best course of action is to contact dispatch for alternative routes. This ensures that the transport remains uninterrupted and prioritizes patient care. By communicating with dispatch, you can receive guidance on alternative paths that may expedite reaching the destination without putting the patient at risk.

This approach keeps the focus on the primary responsibility in emergency medical services: providing care to the patient while ensuring their safety. Assessing alternative routes allows you to swiftly navigate around the obstacles posed by the flat tire, ideally without delaying the transport.

The other options, while potentially viable in different contexts, would not be appropriate in this scenario. Calling for assistance and waiting may lead to unnecessary delay in patient care. Continuing to drive with a flat tire could compromise vehicle safety and worsen the situation. Attempting to fix the tire oneself could also cause additional delays and divert attention from patient care, which is critical in emergency situations.