The RFDS in NSW/ACT
Information for Medical Chest Custodians
Thank you for being a vital link in our remote healthcare network. As a Medical Chest custodian, you provide an essential service to your community.
"Medical Chest Custodians can often be the first link in the chain of survival for patients in remote areas. Every day, they provide our retrieval teams with valuable support when time is critical, and enable us to provide care from afar.
I've seen Medical Chests save lives in emergencies, something that wouldn't be possible without our dedicated Custodians. They are an essential part of the RFDS team, extending our ability to provide care where it's needed most. Thank you to all who play this role."
- Dr Guy Hardwick, Registrar-Retrieval
Custodian Responsibilities
Medical Chest Custodians play a crucial role in their community's health and safety. Only authorised, registered custodians are permitted to manage medical chests, subject to the following conditions:
- Medical Chests must be kept locked at all times when not in use
- Contents must be checked regularly for expired or missing items
- Highlighted prescription drugs must only be used under instruction of a RFDS Doctor
- Keeping a record of the RFDS Doctor’s consultation numbers in a drug register is essential for re-ordering prescription medication
- The appropriate registration number should be clearly marked on the chest
- The responsible custodian/s must advise the RFDS when someone else takes over the care and control of the Chest
- If the Chest cannot be kept in a cool location, some items will require refrigeration
- Medical Chests must not be moved to another location without the permission of RFDS
Resources for Custodians
Below you'll find all the necessary forms and resources to effectively manage your Medical Chest:
- Order Form for Replacement Items
- Expiry Date Record Sheet
- Drug Usage Register
- Medical Chest Layout Guide
- Guidelines for Medical Chest Management
- Medical Chest Users Handbook
- Change of Caretakers Notification Form
If you require support, please contact medicalchest@rfdsse.org.au
Training
As a Medical Chest Custodian, you're a vital link in our remote healthcare network. Our online training program equips you with the essential skills needed to serve your community effectively during medical situations.
Your training includes:
- Critical first aid principles for remote settings
- Effective communication techniques with RFDS doctors during consultations
- Safe administration of prescribed medications
- Proper documentation and record-keeping
- Medical Chest maintenance and inventory management
All Medical Chest Custodians and approved people should complete these online modules to ensure the highest standard of care. This training not only fulfills your responsibilities as a Custodian but provides peace of mind that you're prepared to assist when medical needs arise in your remote community.
Note: We are currently upgrading out website. Training modules are temporarily hosted on the RFDS QLD website.
Important: Training Verification
- On completion of the training modules, you will be issued a completion code.
- Please email your code to us at medicalchest@rfdsse.org.au
Additional Training Resources
