Prehospital Paradigm Podcast

As the team continues the discussion about heat emergencies, the reminder has to be noted that patient medications and medications within the EMS drug box, can affect how a patient responds to heat issues.  This includes the submersion tank treatment.  Just putting a patient into a water bath doesn't complete the treatment.   BTW, if the hospital doesn't have a dunk tank, who does?

Time does matter! The team, minus Scott, get together to talk about heat-related emergencies. Data shows greater than 119,000 ED visits are attributed to heat emergencies annually.  The most "at risk" population is the younger and older population and certainly athletes operating in extreme temperatures. By the way, a cold bath, asap, seems to be the current treatment of choice.

Behind the EMS Institute - Part 2
As part of our Extra Monday episodes, we are continuing the series of what makes the Institute unique and supportive of public safety/EMS agencies.  From BTS of the UH EMS Drug Box system, how a medication change is made within the protocols as they consider the pharmacy staff, availability of drugs and packaging to the One Dose program and constant education considerations.  This episode looks "behind the curtain!"

Spinal Motion Restrictions for EMS - Part 3
Over all, 20+ studies leading back to 1989,  the research does seem to indicate that restraining the spine has no affect on the patient's outcome and, there are actually 3 studies that show injury caused by spinal motion restrictions.  However, further review of local protocols should be done.

The re-education of spinal immobilization methods continues to be the discussion.  Cervical collars, backboards and vacuum mattresses… all come into question!