The Star of Life

The Star of Life was originally designed by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA or EMS.gov) when the American Red Cross challenged the use of an orange cross as a marker for ambulances. The Star of Life was patented in 1977 as a six pointed blue star with a white border and the Rod of Asclepius in the center. In 1997 the patent expired and the emblem was given to the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT). The Star of Life can be seen below.

The following list provides an explanation of each of the six points on the Star of Life.

Detection

Observation and understanding of the problem.

Reporting

The call for professional help.

Response

First rescuers arrive and provide aid.

On Scene Care

EMS personnel arrive and provide immediate care to the extend of their abilities.

Care in Transit

Transferring the patient to the hospital via ambulance or helicopter and providing continued care en route.

Transfer to Definitive Care

Transferring care of the patient to proper specialized care at a hospital.