EMS Cast: Advanced Continuing Education for Paramedics, EMTs & Prehospital Care Providers

Life Over Limb: Field Amputation, Preparing for the Unthinkable

Dr. Avery McKenzie interviews Dr. Eric Adler, regional medical director for Flight for Life, about the challenging and rare procedure of field amputations. They discuss the importance of being prepared for the unexpected, the steps involved in developing a protocol for such emergencies, and the logistical challenges faced during the process. Dr. Adler shares insights from real-life cases and emphasizes the critical need for planning and knowing the resources available in urgent scenarios.

 

00:00 Emergency Field Amputation: A Real-Life Scenario

00:25 The Reality of Unlikely Medical Emergencies

02:04 Introducing Today's Episode and Guest

04:26 Dr. Eric Adler's Experience and Protocol Development

05:46 Indications and Procedures for Field Amputation

10:50 Challenges in Creating a Field Amputation Protocol

14:23 Final Thoughts and Preparedness

 

Resources

• Website show notes link (picture of the kit and copy of the protocol): https://emspodcast.com/life-over-limb-field-amputation-preparing-for-the-unthinkable/
• Other episodes you might like: Episode 31- You Were Taught Wrong, Traumas Not Algorithmic

Gear We Like

• Good Stethoscope - https://amzn.to/3YJJrf2
• Good Shears - https://amzn.to/40FROuF or https://amzn.to/3ChZ4Tn 
• Notepad for taking notes on calls - https://amzn.to/3Z1X21J
• Sunglasses - https://frontline-optics.com/discount/EMSCAST15
• Books we recommend - 
  • The Dichotomy of Leadership - https://amzn.to/4fiCAjN
  • Extreme Ownership - https://amzn.to/3O1FWfa
  •  Managing the Unexpected: Sustained Performance in a Complex World -        https://amzn.to/3V7BwYf
  • Thinking Fast and Slow - https://amzn.to/4fiJG85
  • A Thousand Naked Strangers: A Paramedic's Wild Ride to the Edge and Back -  https://amzn.to/3YJJrf2

Guest/Cast/Crew information-
Guest- Erik Adler
Host- Ross Orpet, Avery Mackenzie

Catch up with us after the show

• Instagram- @emscast
• Website- www.emspodcast.com

 

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.

 

00:00 Introduction: The Impact of EMS on Organ Donation

00:43 Ethical Considerations in Organ Donation

01:10 Current Research and EMS's Role

02:04 Guest Introduction: Chris Meeks

05:04 Ethical Dilemmas and Future Directions

08:25 Organ Donation Criteria and Processes

13:28 Conclusion: The Importance of EMS in Organ Donation

 

Guest/Cast/Crew information-

Guest- Chris Meeks, Critical Care Flight Paramedic, Organ Recovery Coordinator

Host- Ross Orpet, Will Berry 

Catch up with us after the show

• Instagram- @emscast
• Twitter- @ems_cast
• Website- www.emspodcast.com

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.

 

Guest/Cast/Crew information-

Guest- Chris Pfingsten, Co-host of EMS 20/20

Host- Ross Orpet, Will Berry 

 

Resources

• Other episodes you might like
  • Ep. 72 From Errors to Excellence with Geoff Murphy, Master Your Medics
• Books
  • Just Culture- https://amzn.to/4eOMN7w
  • Crucial Conversations- https://amzn.to/3BRBnRI 
• YouTube Videos- 
  • Why do Errors Happen? How can we prevent them?
  • How can a system get organized for improvement? 

 

Catch up with us after the show

• Instagram- @emscast
• Twitter- @ems_cast
• Website- www.emspodcast.com

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.

 

• Resources and links
  • This episode was inspired by an article on EMSAirway.com- Friday Night Lights- Shift 9 Steak Night
  •  EMScast15 - code for 15% off an awesome pair of sunglasses 
  • Help Us By Filling Out Our Audience Survey
  •  Medic Box - awesome medical gear shipped directly to your door 
  • Articles-

    • American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy- Guidelines for ingested foreign bodies

    •  

      Glucagon for Relief of Acute Esophageal Foreign Bodies and Food Impactions: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

    •  

      Efficacy of cola ingestion for oesophageal food bolus impaction: open label, multicentre, randomised controlled trial

    •  

      Conservative management of oesophageal soft food bolus impaction

    •  

      Esophageal Food Impaction: A Retrospective Chart Review

    • Food Bolus Impaction- Question and Answer Review

 

 

Guest/Cast/Crew information-

Host- Ross Orpet, Will Berry 

 

Catch up with us after the show

• Instagram- @emscast
• Twitter- @ems_cast
• Website- www.emspodcast.com

 

00:00 Introduction to Esophageal Foreign Bodies

00:43 Audience Survey and Sunglasses Giveaway

01:46 Interview with Contest Winner

06:11 A Choking Incident at Mile High Stadium

09:02 Discussion on Esophageal Obstructions

11:46 Life-Saving Story at Denver International Airport

13:28 A Life-Saving Outcome

14:11 The Choking Incident at the Tavern

14:57 Assessing the Patient's Condition

19:38 Understanding Esophageal Food Impaction

21:49 Treatment Options and Challenges

29:01 The Role of Endoscopy

37:45 Managing Esophageal Impactions in the Field

39:32 Final Thoughts

10 Lessons From A Real Austere Rescue That Apply To You, No Matter Where You Work

In this episode, we delve into a real-life rescue mission conducted by the U.S. Air Force Pararescue Jumpers (PJs) in the North Atlantic Ocean. Dr. Michael Lauria shares ten critical lessons from this challenging scenario that are essential for medical professionals working in any prehospital environment. From the importance of preparation and the power of a small team, to the significance of continuous learning and the dynamic nature of safety, these insights are invaluable for enhancing clinical practice. Tune in to learn how these lessons can be applied to improve how you approach the job.

• •  EMScast15 - code for 15% off an awesome pair of sunglasses 
  • Tell us about you and how we can make this show better
  •  Medic Box - awesome medical gear shipped directly to your door 

Guest/Cast/Crew information-

Guest- Dr. Mike Lauria

Host- Ross Orpet, Will Berry 

Resources

• Other episodes you might like
• Third-party websites where you can learn more
• Podcast announcements

Catch up with us after the show

• Instagram- @emscast
• Twitter- @ems_cast
• Website- www.emspodcast.com

Bonus: A Better BVM? How I Built This EMS Cast Style- A Crazy Story About an Emergency Nurses Invention and Battle to Save Lives and Prevent Harm.

In this special bonus episode of EMS Cast, we delve into the story of Bobby Sue McCollum, an emergency nurse turned inventor. Learn about the critical issue of over ventilation in emergency medicine, the innovative VT Select device designed to address this problem, and the crazy inspiring journey of its creation. With discussions on the challenges of finding the optimal ventilation rates and volumes, the episode balances medical data and personal narrative. Bobby Sue shares the highs and lows of her entrepreneurial path, from initial prototype development to eventual licensing, offering valuable insights for aspiring inventors in the medical field.

 

Resources Mentioned in the Show-

VT Select Bag Valve Mask

A Review of Ventilation in OHCA

Pediatric BVM Delivers More Ideal Volumes in Mannequins

Small BVMs Lead to Decreased Survival in a Small Real World Study 

00:00 The Problem with Overventilation

00:53 Introduction to the VT Select Device

02:01 Meet the Inventor: Bobby Sue McCollum

05:06 The Journey of Invention

12:10 How the VT Select Works

14:04 Challenges and Triumphs

27:37 Advice for Aspiring Inventors

31:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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. 

• Resource links
  • Episode Blog Post / Show Notes 
  • AMAX4 website
  • Anaphylaxis deep dive
  • Updated Anaphylaxis Definition
  •  EMScast15 - code for 15% off an awesome pair of sunglasses 
  • Help us learn how to make this show better for you
  •  Medic Box - awesome medical gear shipped directly to your door 

Guest/Cast/Crew information-

Guest- Bruce Hoffman- Goodwin University Program Director and Assistant Professor, FlightBridgeED senior educator, Bay State Health Critical Care RN and Paramedic

Host- Ross Orpet, Will Berry 

Catch up with us after the show

• Instagram- @emscast
• Twitter- @ems_cast
• Website- www.emspodcast.com

From Errors to Excellence: Master Your Medics Geoff Murphy on the role of mistakes in EMS education

The Power of Embracing Mistakes- Special guest Geoff Murphy, founder of Master Your Medics, shares how acknowledging and learning from mistakes can save lives in the field of prehospital medicine. Recorded at the Fast 24 conference, this episode emphasizes the importance of cultivating a culture of safety, vulnerability, and continuous learning within EMS teams. Discover actionable strategies to foster a psychologically safe environment where mistakes are openly discussed and used as invaluable learning tools to enhance professional development and patient care. This insightful discussion is a must-watch for anyone looking to elevate their skills and create a high-performing EMS team.

• EMScast15 - code for 15% off an awesome pair of sunglasses
• Enter to Win a FREE Pair of Frontline Optics Sunglasses
• Medic Box - awesome medical gear shipped directly to your door

Guest/Cast/Crew information-

Guest- Geoff Murphy, founder of Master Your Medics

Host- Ross Orpet, Will Berry 

 

Resources

• Ep. 31 You Were Taught Wrong, Traumas Not Algorithmic
• MasterYourMedics.com

Catch up with us after the show

• Instagram- @emscast
• Twitter- @ems_cast
• Website- www.emspodcast.com

00:00 Introduction: The Power of Discussing Mistakes

00:38 Welcome to EMS Cast

00:52 Today's Topic: How Mistakes Can Save Lives

01:16 Embracing Failure: Insights from Jeff Murphy

01:37 Creating a Culture of Safety and Vulnerability

06:29 The Fearless Organization: High vs. Low Performing Teams

11:49 Personal Stories: Learning from Mistakes

19:15 Master Your Medics: The Journey and Vision

23:43 Conclusion: The Path to Mastery

Poisons of the Sea: Not Just a Coastal Problem

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.

• Website show notes link
• EMScast15 - code for 15% off an awesome pair of sunglasses
• Enter to Win a FREE Pair of Frontline Optics Sunglasses
• Medic Box - awesome medical gear shipped directly to your door

Guest/Cast/Crew information-

Guest- Dr. Nik Matsler

Host- Dr. Ross Orpet and Critical Care Paramedic Will Berry 

Resources

• Other episodes you might like
  • Episode 26: Snake Bites
  • Episode 25: Cocaine Overdose
• Third-party websites where you can learn more
  • Marine Envenomations Journal Article
  • 5 Step Approach to Marine Envenomations

Catch up with us after the show

• Instagram- @emscast
• Twitter- @ems_cast
• Website- www.emspodcast.com

The Critically Sick Runner: Unraveling the Mystery at an Ultra-endurance Event with Dr. Whitney Barrett

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.

 

EMScast15 for 15% Off Frontline Optics Sunglasses

Enter to Win a FREE Pair of Frontline Optics Sunglasses

Blog Post and Critical Runner Algorithm- The Critical Care of the Sick Runner

 

00:00 Introduction and Hosts

00:39 Conference Recap

01:03 Guest Introduction: Dr. Whitney Barrett

01:29 Understanding the Sick Runner

02:29 Medical Considerations for Ultra Marathons

08:15 Common Issues in Ultra Runners

12:45 Responding to Sick Runners

19:42 Fluid Management and Hyponatremia

35:10 Handling Hyperthermia and Hypothermia

44:05 Dealing with Collapsed Runners

53:36 Final Thoughts and Takeaways