Understanding the Shock Index: A Simplified Guide
What is the Shock Index? The Shock Index (SI) is a simple, quick, and valuable tool used by healthcare professionals, especially in emergency and critical care settings, to assess the…
The Critical Role of Proper Ventilation: Challenges of Using a BVM with an ETT Tube
In the pre-hospital environment, paramedics often face the challenging task of managing a patient's airway under less-than-ideal conditions. Among the various tools at their disposal, the bag-valve-mask (BVM) connected to…
Safe Transfer of Patients with Suspected Myocardial Infarction to Facilities with Cath Labs
The transfer of patients with a suspected myocardial infarction (MI) from hospitals without catheterization laboratories (cath labs) to those equipped with such facilities is a critical process that demands precise…
Understanding ECMO: A Comprehensive Guide for Prehospital Providers
Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) is a sophisticated medical technology that provides life-saving support to patients with severe heart and lung conditions. Think of ECMO as a machine that temporarily takes…
Understanding Respiratory Failure: A Guide for Paramedics
Respiratory failure is a critical condition where the respiratory system fails to maintain adequate gas exchange, resulting in hypoxemia (low blood oxygen) or hypercapnia (high blood carbon dioxide). As frontline…
The Use of Insulin in Managing Critically High Potassium Levels
Introduction Hyperkalemia, or elevated potassium levels in the blood, is a life-threatening condition that requires prompt and effective management. Insulin, often administered in conjunction with glucose, is a cornerstone treatment…
Factors That Make Emergency Intubation Difficult and the RSI Sequence
Emergency intubation is a critical procedure that often presents a multitude of challenges, especially in high-pressure situations. The ability to secure an airway swiftly and efficiently can be the difference…
Improving Airway Management in Trauma: Delayed Sequence Intubation (DSI) vs. Rapid Sequence Intubation (RSI) for Prehospital Providers
Securing an airway in critically injured patients is one of the most challenging and essential tasks for prehospital providers. A recent study published in Anesthesia & Analgesia (2023) has revealed…
SpO2, Is it a True Reflection? “what you need to know”
Throughout my career, I've adhered to a fundamental principle: treat the patient, not the monitor or device. This approach emphasizes the importance of holistic patient assessment, where clinical judgment takes…
Investing in the Future: A Flight Paramedic’s Perspective
As a flight paramedic, the rush of saving lives amidst the chaos of emergency situations is both exhilarating and humbling. We often find ourselves in high-stress environments, relying on our…