How long will the ambulance take to arrive?
im-PIE-ga — three syllables, stress on second. 'Impiegare' = to take (time).
Ask the dispatcher for an estimated arrival time. Helps you know how long you need to maintain first aid.
'Quanto impiega' = how long does it take — 'impiegare' used for time duration. 'L'ambulanza ad arrivare' = for the ambulance to arrive. The dispatcher will give an estimated time based on current ambulance location and traffic. Stay on the phone and follow instructions until the ambulance arrives.
L'ambulanza è già in arrivo?
Is the ambulance already on its way?
Confirm dispatch — reassuring to know it has been sent
Quanto manca? Sta peggiorando.
How much longer? He is getting worse.
Update the dispatcher if condition changes — may affect response
Venite con l'elicottero? È molto lontano.
Are you coming by helicopter? It is very far.
Helicopter ('elicottero di soccorso') is used for remote or very severe emergencies
In Italian cities, 118 ambulances carry GPS tracking visible to the dispatcher — estimated arrival times are fairly accurate. In rural or mountain areas, times can be significantly longer — helicopter ('elisoccorso') may be the faster option for remote locations. Italy has a national network of 'elisoccorso' (rescue helicopters) operated by regional health services, military (Aeronautica Militare), and Alpine rescue ('soccorso alpino').