In this episode, Josh & Mustafa sit down with Joe Graw, Chief Growth Officer for Imagetrend, to discuss various topics related to EMS documentation as it has evolved over the years.
In this discussion, Ken & Mustafa sit down with Rachael Belcher to discuss various topics related to EMS & mental health.
Check out the book she just published below:
In this conversation, the Alert Medic 1 team is joined by the Okayest Medic Podcast host to discuss the 2025 guidelines for managing patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS). They emphasize the importance of understanding clinical practice guidelines, the levels of evidence behind recommendations, and the critical role of patient history and assessment in emergency medical services (EMS). The discussion covers the significance of serial EKGs in detecting dynamic changes in cardiac patients, the appropriate use of oxygen therapy, and strategies for managing high-risk patients. The team highlights the need for effective communication with receiving hospitals and the importance of continuous education in improving patient care. In this conversation, the speakers delve into critical aspects of emergency cardiac care, focusing on the use of epinephrine in life-threatening situations, the significance of troponin levels in diagnosing myocardial infarctions, and the importance of posterior EKGs in identifying STEMIs. They also discuss pain management strategies, particularly the use of nitroglycerin versus fentanyl, and emphasize the need for clinical judgment in assessing chest pain. The discussion culminates in a series of insights and recommendations for emergency medical professionals.
Mustafa Sidik sits down with Dr. Jennifer Anders to discuss recent pediatric changes in the Maryland EMS prtocols, focusing on intraosseous access techniques, updates to dexamethasone administration, the implementation of enhanced CPR with ECMO, and the considerations for cardioversion in pediatric patients. The discussion emphasizes the importance of adapting protocols to improve patient outcomes and the need for ongoing education in emergency medical services.
Summary
This conversation covers the 2025 protocol updates in Maryland EMS, focusing on significant changes in trauma care, sepsis management, alcohol withdrawal protocols, hypertensive disorders in pregnancy, submersion and drowning protocols, and the introduction of video laryngoscopy and high-performance CPR. The discussion emphasizes the importance of timely interventions, the evolving nature of EMS protocols, and the need for continuous education and training for EMS professionals.
Mustafa Sidik sits down with paramedic student Ben Gallagher to discuss various topics related to paramedic education and EMS systems.
This conversation explores the experiences and insights of paramedic students at UMBC, discussing their educational journey, the importance of EMT experience, essential skills for success, and the challenges of managing stress in the field. The speakers emphasize the significance of effective instructors and preceptors in shaping their learning experience, as well as the need for mental health support in the demanding field of emergency medicine. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the importance of teaching and learning in the paramedic field, the various career opportunities available, and the emotional challenges faced by paramedics. They delve into the concept of imposter syndrome, sharing personal experiences and strategies for managing stress and anxiety in high-pressure situations. The discussion emphasizes the value of mentorship, continuous learning, and the need for emotional resilience in the EMS profession.
This conversation provides a detailed recap of day 2 of the FAST25 conference, highlighting key insights from various lectures. The speakers discuss the evolving landscape of emergency medicine, focusing on the effectiveness of different medications in cardiac arrest scenarios, the importance of early interventions, and the need for improved airway management techniques. Additionally, the conversation emphasizes the significance of mental health in clinical practice and the necessity of building resilience among emergency service providers.
Summary
This conversation reflects on the key insights and discussions from Day One of the FAST 25 conference in Lexington, Kentucky. Listen as Josh and Cody delve into various topics including the importance of patient positioning for oxygenation, the need for simplification in airway management, overcoming fear in pediatric emergencies, and the challenges of adhering to guidelines in emergency medical services. They also discuss the complexities of traumatic cardiac arrest and the role of vasopressors in trauma care, emphasizing the need for innovation and continuous improvement in medical practices.
Summary
In this episode, Dr. Mike Winters discusses the critical aspects of resuscitation leadership, emphasizing the importance of preparation, team dynamics, and effective communication during emergency situations. The conversation covers the three buckets of preparation, the roles of team members, and the significance of debriefing after resuscitation efforts. Dr. Winters shares practical strategies and mnemonics to enhance leadership skills in resuscitation scenarios, ultimately aiming to improve patient outcomes.
Keywords
resuscitation leadership, emergency medicine, team dynamics, CPR, patient outcomes, emergency response, medical education, simulation training, communication skills, debriefing
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Resuscitation Leadership
10:09 The Importance of Preparation
18:01 Mental Readiness and Visualization Techniques
24:52 Team Dynamics and Role Assignment
35:27 Creating a Psychologically Safe Environment
40:19 The Importance of Simulation in Training
45:16 Adapting to Variable Environments for Resuscitation
48:33 The Primary Survey and Team Leadership in Resuscitation
57:45 Effective Communication During Resuscitation
01:11:55 The Critical Role of Debriefing After Resuscitation
01:21:30 Communicating with Families During Difficult Moments
This is a recording of Josh Cooke's lecture at the 2025 R. Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center EMS Conference.
Josh delves into the evolving approach to trauma care, emphasizing the importance of a clinician's perspective in managing trauma effectively. It covers the MARCH algorithm, the critical role of tourniquets, the challenges with commercial tourniquets, innovative techniques for application, the proper use of chest seals, and the debate between needle decompression and finger thoracostomy. Additionally, it highlights advancements in hypothermia management, advocating for better practices in emergency medical services.
This is a recording of Cody Winniford's lecture at the 2025 R. Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center EMS Conference.
Cody discusses the critical issue of non-compressible thoracic hemorrhage (NCTH) and its implications in trauma care. He highlights the alarming statistics regarding trauma deaths, particularly focusing on hemorrhage control and the importance of timely interventions. The discussion covers various strategies, including permissive hypotension and the use of junctional tourniquets, particularly the AAJT, to improve patient outcomes. Cody emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach to trauma care, integrating innovative techniques and timely responses to enhance survival rates.
Summary
In this engaging conversation, Mustafa Sidik and Ken Sanner explore the evolving landscape of Emergency Medical Services (EMS), discussing the implications of changing resuscitation protocols, the role of education, and the challenges of volunteerism. They delve into innovative solutions like drone delivery systems for emergency medical supplies and the need for standardized practices in EMS. The discussion also highlights the importance of leadership and the necessity for change in the face of bureaucratic hurdles and funding issues. Ultimately, they emphasize the need for a collective effort to ensure that EMS remains an essential service in today's rapidly changing world.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Current Events in EMS
03:31 The Evolution of Resuscitative Medicine
06:21 Challenges in Standardizing Resuscitation Protocols
09:26 The Role of Technology in EMS
12:43 Innovations in Emergency Response
15:22 Community Support for First Responders
18:20 Conclusion and Future Directions
28:12 Taxation and Volunteer Services
30:45 The Role of Volunteer Fire Departments
33:39 Challenges in Volunteer EMS
36:33 The Economics of Volunteerism
40:29 The Future of EMS Services
49:36 The Need for Disruptive Change in EMS
Summary
This conversation with Mustafa and Dr. Brian Spoelhof explores the intricate relationship between bioethics and emergency medicine, delving into personal experiences, ethical dilemmas, and the philosophical underpinnings of morality. The speakers reflect on their journeys into bioethics, discuss the definitions and implications of ethics in healthcare, and navigate complex issues such as patient autonomy, end-of-life decisions, and the balance between utilitarianism and deontology. Through personal anecdotes and philosophical discussions, they highlight the importance of understanding cultural and religious considerations in ethical decision-making. In this conversation, Mustafa Sidik and Brian delve into the complexities of bioethics in healthcare, discussing ethical dilemmas faced by medical professionals, the intricacies of triage and resource allocation, and the impact of personal experiences on ethical perspectives. They explore the controversial topic of vaccination in transplant ethics, the importance of mental health in decision-making, and the frustrations surrounding the healthcare system that can lead to extreme reactions. The discussion emphasizes the need for self-care among healthcare providers and the importance of understanding diverse perspectives in the pursuit of ethical healthcare practices.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Reflections on Past Conversations
03:39 Journey to Bioethics: Personal Experiences and Insights
06:24 Understanding Ethics: Definitions and Historical Context
09:33 The Intersection of Ethics and Medicine
12:31 Exploring Good Treatments: Definitions and Perspectives
15:22 Cultural Contexts in Bioethics
18:44 Bioethics in Emergency Medicine
21:34 Futile Treatment: Ethical Dilemmas in Practice
24:31 Personal Experiences and Ethical Reflections
27:21 Navigating Complex Ethical Situations
32:56 Pharmacy School Insights on Biotech
35:00 The Challenge of Teaching Bioethics
36:29 Utilitarianism: The Math of Morality
39:52 The Flaws of Utilitarianism
41:41 Deontology: Duty Over Outcome
47:04 The Dilemma of Medical Experimentation
48:38 Triage in Healthcare: Making Tough Choices
53:13 Ethics of Vaccination in Transplant Decisions
59:16 Ethics of Patient Autonomy and Survival
01:00:18 Navigating Mental Health Crises in EMS
01:02:13 The Complexity of Patient Competence
01:05:24 Egalitarianism and Societal Perspectives
01:08:20 Mental Health's Impact on Bioethics
01:12:01 Understanding Burnout in Healthcare
01:12:57 Polarized Beliefs and Healthcare Reform
01:19:33 The Call for Systemic Change
01:22:13 Self-Care and Ethical Decision Making
01:27:40 The Role of Personal Experience in Bioethics
01:30:38 Resources for Understanding Bioethics
Summary
In this conversation, Mustafa Sidik and Ken Sanner sit down with Dr. Arne Skålberg and Luke Thomas-Azud to discuss the intricacies of emergency medical services (EMS) in Norway and the United States, focusing on the use of naloxone in treating opioid overdoses. They explore the differences in EMS education, the importance of community paramedicine, and the challenges faced by healthcare professionals in addressing opioid addiction. The discussion emphasizes the need for compassion in patient care, the significance of basic life support (BLS), and the complexities surrounding opioid withdrawal and treatment.
Takeaways
The Norwegian EMS system is public and includes physician-manned ambulances.
Community paramedicine is essential for preventative care and addressing health disparities.
Naloxone is a critical tool in treating opioid overdoses, but its administration requires careful titration.
BLS is crucial in managing opioid overdose patients before administering naloxone.
Compassion fatigue is a significant issue in emergency medicine, affecting provider attitudes towards patients.
Cultural attitudes towards drug users can impact their willingness to seek help.
Education and training in EMS should emphasize the importance of basic life support skills.
The opioid crisis requires a multifaceted approach, including community support and healthcare access.
Understanding opioid withdrawal is essential for effective patient care.
Research and data sharing are vital for improving opioid treatment protocols.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Emergency Medical Systems
03:05 Overview of the Norwegian EMS System
11:27 Community Paramedicine and Preventative Care
17:51 Naloxone: Research and Development
31:46 Approaching Opioid Overdoses: Guidelines and Protocols
37:51 Ventilation Techniques and Equipment
40:34 Airway Management Strategies
44:39 Team Dynamics in Emergency Response
48:29 Recognizing and Responding to Opiate Overdose
51:33 Administering Naloxone: Balancing Risks and Benefits
56:33 Dosing Differences in Naloxone Administration
01:05:11 Opioid Overdose Attitudes: A Comparative Analysis
01:07:51 Changing Mindsets: Overcoming Stigma in Healthcare
01:11:47 Compassion Fatigue: The Emotional Toll on Healthcare Professionals
01:15:28 Understanding Naloxone: Dosage and Effectiveness
01:22:15 Withdrawal and Dependence: The Hidden Struggles of Patients
Summary
This conversation delves into the critical topic of mental health among first responders, featuring insights from Marcia Barben of the Irons Foundation and Cody, the Salty Paramedic. They discuss the stigma surrounding mental health, the importance of peer support, and the resources available for first responders. Cody shares his journey of writing a book aimed at helping others navigate their mental health challenges, while Marcia emphasizes the need for accessible resources and community support. The discussion highlights the importance of open conversations about feelings, the necessity of finding the right therapist, and the proactive approaches that can be taken to promote mental wellness in the first responder community.
Keywords
mental health, first responders, Irons Foundation, Salty Paramedic, peer support, therapy, wellness, stigma, community resources, resilience
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Mental Health in First Responders
03:45 The Irons Foundation: Supporting First Responders
06:37 Cody's Journey: Humor and Mental Health Awareness
09:45 Breaking the Stigma: Conversations on Mental Health
12:33 The Importance of Talking About Feelings
15:41 Finding the Right Therapist: A Personal Journey
18:22 Peer Support and Community Resources
21:27 Self-Care: Balancing Work and Personal Life
24:43 Learning from Experiences: Good and Bad Examples
27:24 The Need for Change in the Fire Service
30:27 Conclusion: Promoting Wellness in First Responders
35:46 Burnout and the Need for Balance
37:02 Mental Health Awareness in First Responders
38:16 Advice for New First Responders
41:09 The Importance of Resetting
44:42 Identifying Supportive Systems
47:43 Proactive Mental Health Strategies
49:57 Advocating for Mental Health
57:30 Future Collaborations and Goals
Summary
In this conversation, Mustafa Sidik and Donnie Woodyard explore the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in Emergency Medical Services (EMS). They discuss the evolution of AI, its current applications, and the potential future impact on healthcare. The conversation emphasizes the importance of embracing innovation, addressing ethical concerns, and leading the change within the EMS community. They highlight the need for collaboration and education to prepare for the integration of AI technologies in EMS practices.
Takeaways
AI has surged in the past 24 months, becoming integral to daily life.
Natural language processing is key for AI applications in EMS.
AI can significantly enhance patient care documentation.
The EMS industry risks being left behind if it doesn't adapt to AI.
Autonomous vehicles are already being tested for non-emergency patient transport.
AI can help prevent medication errors in the pre-hospital setting.
Collaboration among EMS leaders is essential for innovation.
Education on AI is crucial for EMS leaders to embrace change.
Divergent thinking fosters creativity and innovation in EMS.
The future of EMS will involve AI assistants and autonomous technologies.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to AI in EMS
05:35 Understanding AI: Definitions and Concepts
10:27 The Impact of AI on Society and EMS
15:44 Low-Hanging Fruits for AI in EMS
20:27 The Future of AI in Emergency Medical Services
25:29 Real-World Applications of AI in EMS
30:35 Challenges and Ethical Considerations of AI in EMS
38:00 Embracing AI in Emergency Medical Services
40:18 The Need for Guidance in EMS AI Adoption
41:02 Addressing Naysayers and Resistance to Change
44:36 Education and Understanding in EMS
47:36 Privacy, Security, and Ethical Use of AI
51:00 Leading Innovation in State Regulations
52:40 The Importance of Narrative in Patient Care
57:13 Leveraging Technology to Prevent Errors
01:01:22 The Future of Driving and EMS
01:03:26 Learning from Past Innovators
01:09:32 Cultivating Divergent Thinking in Leadership
Keywords
AI, Emergency Medical Services, Innovation, Technology, Healthcare, Natural Language Processing, Autonomous Vehicles, Ethics, Leadership, Collaboration
Summary
In this episode of the Alert Medical Podcast, host Cody and co-hosts Josh and Mustafa Sidik engage with guest Kirk Smith, a seasoned respiratory therapist, to discuss the critical role of mechanical ventilation in emergency medical services (EMS). Kirk shares his journey from bartender to respiratory therapist, emphasizing the importance of proper ventilation techniques in patient care. The conversation covers various topics, including the selection of ventilators, the significance of CPAP and BiPAP, and the challenges faced in implementing ventilators in EMS settings. Kirk also introduces adaptive support ventilation (ASV) as a valuable tool for managing patients effectively. The episode concludes with a discussion on the future of ventilation technology and the need for ongoing education in the field.
Takeaways
Kirk's journey from bartender to respiratory therapist highlights the importance of seizing opportunities.
Mechanical ventilation is crucial for optimizing patient care in EMS.
Choosing the right ventilator involves understanding the specific needs of the department.
CPAP and BiPAP are essential tools for managing respiratory distress in patients.
Feedback from ventilators is vital for ensuring effective patient care.
Education and training are key to overcoming resistance to using ventilators in EMS.
Adaptive support ventilation (ASV) simplifies the management of ventilated patients.
The future of ventilation technology includes intelligent and closed-loop systems.
Understanding ventilator settings can significantly impact patient outcomes.
Collaboration between EMS and hospitals is essential for improving patient care.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Guest Background
03:33 Kirk's Journey into Respiratory Therapy
06:40 The Importance of Mechanical Ventilation
09:27 Ventilator Selection and Organizational Maturity
12:34 Implementing Ventilators in EMS
15:41 Understanding Ventilator Settings and Patient Care
18:21 The Role of Ventilators in CPR
21:44 Overcoming Barriers to Ventilator Use
24:38 Education and Training for Ventilator Use
40:21 Navigating New Equipment in Emergency Care
43:12 Understanding the Role of Leadership in Training
47:00 The Importance of Ventilation in Patient Care
49:48 The Case for Mechanical Ventilation
54:33 Innovations in Ventilation Technology
01:01:11 The Future of Ventilation: Intelligent Systems
Keywords
mechanical ventilation, EMS, respiratory therapy, Kirk Smith, patient care, CPAP, BiPAP, ventilator settings, cardiac arrest, adaptive support ventilation
Summary
The Alert Medic 1 team explores the critical aspects of trauma care, focusing on the communication between EMS providers and trauma nurses with their guests, Abby and Logan. Both are experienced in their respective fields, discussing the importance of accurate patient assessments, the challenges of handoffs, and the need for clear communication. They emphasize the significance of understanding each other's roles and the necessity for collaboration in providing optimal patient care. The dialogue also highlights the need for training and experience in both EMS and nursing to improve the overall trauma care process.
Takeaways
Mechanism of injury is crucial for trauma reports.
Vital signs and mental status are key indicators.
Discrepancies in GCS reporting are common.
Clear communication can prevent misunderstandings.
Nurses and EMS should use plain language.
Training for both sides can improve handoffs.
Understanding each other's roles enhances teamwork.
Concise reports save time in trauma situations.
Interdisciplinary ride-alongs can foster understanding.
Building trust is essential for effective communication.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Trauma Care Professionals
02:44 Communication in Trauma Handoffs
10:35 Prioritizing Patient Care Based on Reports
22:00 Expectations During Patient Handoffs
25:03 Improving Handoff Communication
27:06 Effective Communication in Trauma Handoffs
32:21 Building Trust Between EMS and Hospital Staff
36:23 Understanding Protocols and Procedures
42:20 The Importance of Interdisciplinary Experience
Keywords
trauma care, EMS, nursing, patient handoff, communication, GCS, trauma assessment, emergency medicine, healthcare collaboration, trauma nursing
Summary
In this conversation, the hosts discuss the implications of recent legislation regarding fentanyl and its impact on emergency medical services (EMS). They delve into the nuances of the Halt Fentanyl Act, exploring its potential effects on medicinal fentanyl use and the broader implications for pain management. The discussion transitions to the introduction of a new non-opiate analgesic, highlighting its potential benefits and challenges in the context of EMS. The conversation concludes with a focus on pain management practices, emphasizing the importance of treating pain compassionately and effectively in emergency settings.
Takeaways
The Halt Fentanyl Act aims to address fentanyl-related substances without impacting medicinal fentanyl use.
Legislation can have unintended consequences on medical practices and patient care.
Non-opiate analgesics are emerging as promising alternatives for pain management.
Pain management should prioritize patient comfort and not be hindered by stigma or peer pressure.
Understanding drug scheduling is crucial for EMS professionals.
Effective pain management requires a multimodal approach, combining different medications.
The opioid crisis has led to increased scrutiny and regulation of pain management practices.
Compassionate care in EMS includes addressing pain without judgment.
New medications must be accessible and affordable for patients in need.
Education on pain management and drug interactions is essential for healthcare providers.
Chapters
00:00 Legislation on Fentanyl-Related Substances
22:31 Emerging Non-Opioid Analgesics
33:15 Insurance Coverage and Drug Pricing Challenges
34:36 Legislative Updates on Substance Abuse Treatment
36:44 Clinical Trials and Evidence-Based Pain Management
41:24 Analgesic Preferences in Emergency Medicine
54:59 The Importance of Treating Pain Compassionately
01:02:59 Reflections on Pain Management and Future Directions
Keywords
Fentanyl, EMS, pain management, legislation, analgesics, opioid crisis, non-opiate medication, healthcare policy, drug scheduling, emergency medicine
