Time-based tracking of temperature and humidity of emergency medical service rapid response vehicles in Qatar: a prospective observational study

Background: Paramedics working in emergency medical services (EMS) routinely administer life-saving medications to patients under urgent conditions. However, these medications are frequently subjected to undocumented fluctuations in environmental conditions, particularly temperature and humidity, which may lead to drug degradation and potentially compromise patient safety. In countries like the State of Qatar, known for its elevated temperatures and humidity, the environmental exposure of EMS medications stored in rapid response cars (RRCs) has not yet been systematically assessed. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the fluctuations in temperature and humidity experienced by ambulatory medications over a 12-month period.

Methods: Six RRCs, each with three temperature and humidity loggers were utilized to collect real-life environmental data. Two loggers were placed in two paramedic bags stored at the back of the RRCs while a third logger was attached in the middle inside each car. Temperature and humidity readings were recorded at 10-minute intervals over 12 months for assessment. Data was then extracted using ElitechLog software, visualized using Python, and statistically analyzed. The mean kinetic temperature (MKT) was also calculated.

Results: Temperature values reached 59.1 and 65.7 °C in the bags and inside the RRC, respectively. The MKT exceeded the United States Pharmacopeia recommendations of 30 °C, and in some instances, it exceeded 50 °C. Little to no difference was observed between the two bags in each car however, greater temperature values and MKT violations were reported by the centrally located sensor inside the RRCs.

Conclusion: The reported MKT violations highlight the need to develop and implement improved storage strategies for EMS medications in emergency vehicles operating in extremely hot climates. However, given that medication bags are frequently exposed to high ambient temperatures when carried outside by paramedics, storage solutions alone are insufficient to fully prevent deviations from manufacturers’ recommended conditions. This underscores the importance of specialized training for paramedics on stringent medication handling protocols to minimize temperature exposure and ensure drug safety and efficacy. Clinical trial number: Not applicable.