What is a Mobile Data Terminal (MDT)?

What is a Mobile Data Terminal (MDT)?

• A. A small computer terminal inside the ambulance that directly receives data from the dispatch center
• B. A portable radio used for voice communications
• C. A handheld patient monitor
• D. A satellite phone used for data

Answer: (A)

A Mobile Data Terminal is a compact onboard computer in the ambulance that connects directly to the dispatch center’s computer-aided dispatch system. It brings real-time run information to the crew and can display patient demographics, incident details, location, and routing instructions. It may also send updates back to the hospital or CAD, helping coordinate care and transport. This differs from a plain voice radio (which handles voice communication), a handheld patient monitor (a medical device for monitoring the patient, not communications), or a satellite phone (used for data or voice when other networks aren’t available).

A Mobile Data Terminal is a compact onboard computer in the ambulance that connects directly to the dispatch center’s computer-aided dispatch system. It brings real-time run information to the crew and can display patient demographics, incident details, location, and routing instructions. It may also send updates back to the hospital or CAD, helping coordinate care and transport. This differs from a plain voice radio (which handles voice communication), a handheld patient monitor (a medical device for monitoring the patient, not communications), or a satellite phone (used for data or voice when other networks aren’t available).