Prehospital Management of Upper GI Bleeds: A Guide for EMTs and Paramedics
In emergency medicine, few scenarios are as immediately concerning as arriving on scene to find a patient actively vomiting bright red blood. Upper gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding represents a unique challenge for EMS providers—these patients aren’t trauma victims, yet they’re bleeding like trauma patients. They require both the rapid intervention of trauma care and the thorough assessment of a medical patient. This guide breaks down the essential principles of managing an upper GI bleed in the prehospital setting, where your actions during those critical first minutes can significantly impact patient outcomes.
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.