The Untold Impact of EMS on Organ Donation: Transforming Tragedy into Hope
In this episode, we discuss the profound impact that one patient’s organ donation can have on society. Even when not every patient gets to go home, the ability to donate organs can positively affect up to 80 people, multiplying our impact and service to the community. Guest Chris Meeks, a critical care flight paramedic and organ recovery coordinator discusses the ethical considerations and the surprising impact EMS has on the potential for organ donation, even in cases that appear to be ‘lost causes’. Tune in to understand how your work in EMS may have more far-reaching positive effects than you realize.
Values-Driven Leadership Within A Just Culture- Chris Pfingsten from EMS 20/20
Creating lasting behavioral changes in the workplace by moving beyond consequence-based policies. Chris discusses the importance of aligning personal and company values, highlighting ‘just culture’ in EMS and its role in understanding motivations and systemic issues. The conversation covers leadership in EMS, focusing on the significance of fostering supportive relationships with staff and avoiding fear-based management. Additionally, Chris shares his journey from paramedic to Field Training Officer, offering advice on effective training and mutual support. This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone in the EMS field aiming to enhance performance, commitment, and team dynamics. Don’t forget to check below for further resources on just culture and motivational learning.
Are They Choking? Esophageal Foreign Body
We delve into the management of esophageal foreign body obstructions, a common yet often misunderstood medical emergency. We discuss the symptoms and causes of esophageal food impactions, sometimes referred to as ‘Steakhouse Syndrome,’ and differentiate it from tracheal obstructions. We explore the protocols, potential treatments, and if there’s any rationale behind treatments such as glucagon administration. Join us as we also share real-life scenarios to better illustrate the challenges and solutions when dealing with such medical cases.
The Critical Four Minutes: AMAX4 framework for Anaphylaxis
Explore anaphylaxis care from the basics to the critical approach to managing severe anaphylaxis with Bruce Hoffman, FlightBridge ED senior educator. Find out what it means to be aggressive with anaphylaxis care explained through the AMAX4 framework. Learn how the framework can help reverse anaphylactic shock and prevent catastrophic outcomes. Hear the impactful story behind the framework and gain insight into the most effective practices for treating unresponsive anaphylactic and asthmatic patients. Special thanks to the McKenzie family for their mission-driven educational work.
Poisons of the Sea: Insights with Toxicologist Dr. Nik Matsler
Think you only need to worry about toxicities that exist in the sea if you live by an ocean? Think again. No matter where you are fish may be on the menu, or there may be a zoo nearby, or a marine enthusiast with an elaborate home aquarium. These toxicities can be seen in Colorado. They can be in Australia or in the US. No matter where you are you have the potential to see one or many of these. From scombroid poisoning to puffer fish, irukandji syndrome, jellyfish, and sea snakes- tune in to this week’s episode to learn all about the various poisons that come from the sea with toxicologist Nik Matsler.
The Critical Care of the Sick Runner: A Comprehensive Guide
Dr. Whitney Barrett, the Medical Director of the Highlonsome 100 mile ultra endurance race, discusses the critical considerations for EMS providers when encountering sick runners during endurance events. Insights on managing ultra-endurance athletes, focusing on conditions such as hyponatremia, dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and the unique challenges presented by high-altitude races. Learn about effective rehydration and cooling strategies, and the critical role of context in diagnosing and treating affected runners.
How to Master the Resuscitation- EMCRIT’s Scott Weingart
EMCRIT’s Scott Weingart discusses the concept of being a true resuscitationist. The mindset necessary for providing aggressive, excellent care outside hospital boundaries and the emphasis on the importance of preparation, critical thinking, and meticulous attention to detail in emergency medical situations. Dr. Weingart shares insights on mental simulation, embracing challenges, handling crises efficiently, and continuous self-improvement. We conclude our discussion by exploring the philosophy ‘Amor Fati’ and underscore the broader impact EMS professionals can have beyond simply saving lives.
Building Better Providers: Eric Bauer, Lessons from FlightBridgeEDEric Bauer- the pursuit of excellence
Will and I recently attended FAST24, an educational conference hosted by FlightBridgeED in Wilmington, North Carolina. We had a fantastic time meeting industry top speakers, including Eric Bauer, one of the original founders of FlightBridgeED. In today’s episode, we delve into Eric’s journey in EMS education, how FlightBridgeED was conceived, and the importance of continuous learning. We also discuss the challenges of becoming an expert in the field and tips on improving your skills incrementally. Join us as we explore these valuable insights and look forward to upcoming episodes featuring more stellar guests from FAST24!
The Perils and Pleasures of Mushrooms
In this episode, we delve into the fascinating and often perilous world of mushrooms. Join us as we explore with Dr. Nik Matsler how these fungi can be a culinary delight, a source of psychedelic experiences, or a deadly hazard.
Electrical Injuries and Lightning Strikes
Derek Miller, outreach coordinator for the UNC JC Burn Center, joins us again to explore electrical injuries and lightning strikes. We discuss the various types of electrical injuries, the mechanisms behind these injuries, and the essential steps EMS providers must take to ensure their safety and provide effective patient care. Through real-life case studies and expert insights, this episode delves into the complexities of managing electrical burn patients, the importance of immediate interventions, and the potential long-term sequelae of such injuries. Tune in for practical advice and essential knowledge to enhance your skills in handling electrical emergencies.
Here are some additional resources:
Electrical Injuries Overview- Nice overview, though not limited to EMS specifically. The references list at end is also a good jumping off spot for those wanting more.
Achieving Stroke Care Excellence in Pre-Hospital Settings
Explore the nuances of stroke assessments, the challenges EMS professionals face in the field, and the impact of prehospital interventions on patient outcomes. Coco Wham, a former paramedic who’s transitioned to a physician, and Dr. Layne Dylla, an associate professor of emergency medicine join us to dive into their ongoing research efforts aimed at defining what matters in prehospital stroke care and refining stroke response protocols. Hear firsthand how evidence-based practices are developed from the ground up in EMS settings. This episode is packed with valuable information to enhance your practice and understanding of stroke care in prehospital environments.
The Critically Burned Patient
Burn injuries are among the most intimidating emergencies faced by prehospital care providers. The intricacies of managing such cases were vividly discussed in our recent podcast featuring Derek Miller, an experienced burn nurse with a deep understanding of burn care. This post delves into the key takeaways from the podcast, offering practical guidance and insight to enhance the care of burn patients in the prehospital setting.