7.2 - Taser Deployment

California Highway Patrol | Standard Operating Procedures

EMS should be activated following Taser application in the following circumstances:

• The probe is embedded in the eye, genitals, or bone.

• Seizure is witnessed after Taser application.

• There is excessive bleeding from the probe site after probe removal.

• Cardiac arrest, complaints of chest pain, palpitations.

• Respiratory distress.

• Change in mental status after application.

• Pregnancy.

INDICATIONS FOR REMOVAL

• Patients with uncomplicated conducted electrical weapon (Taser) probes embedded subcutaneously in non-vulnerable areas of skin.

PROCEDURE

1. Ensure wires are disconnected from weapons.

2. Stabilize skin around the probe using a non-dominant hand.

3. Grasp probe by metal body using dominant hand.

4. Remove the probe by pulling straight out in a single quick motion.

5. Removed probes should be handled and disposed of like contaminated sharps in a designated sharps container, unless requested as evidence by police.

6. Cleanse wounds and apply dressing.

7. If last tetanus immunization was greater than 5 years, advise the patient that they may need one.

8. Obtain a refusal of care for patients refusing transport.