Confessions Of An EMS Newbie Podcast http://www.emsnewbie.com Follow a complete newbie through Paramedic School Thu, 16 Feb 2012 00:51:27 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.3.1 Follow a complete newbie through Paramedic School Ron Davis & Kelly Grayson no Ron Davis & Kelly Grayson ron@emsnewbie.com ron@emsnewbie.com (Ron Davis & Kelly Grayson) © 2010-2011 Ron Davis, Distinctions For Life LLC Follow a complete newbie through Paramedic School Confessions Of An EMS Newbie Podcast http://www.emsnewbie.com/wp-content/uploads/powerpress/EMSNewbie_Logo_Trans_144x103.png http://www.emsnewbie.com Houston, Texas Weekly 77 Breakdown http://www.emsnewbie.com/2012/02/77-breakdown/ http://www.emsnewbie.com/2012/02/77-breakdown/#comments Thu, 16 Feb 2012 00:51:27 +0000 Ron http://www.emsnewbie.com/?p=1126

(38:42) Ron has a bit of an emotional breakdown during a clinical this week and we talk about the effects of fatigue and how you handle not knowing what to do. Also how do you know when you are ready?

What I Did This Week

Assessment Based Management

More scenarios and I’m wondering a little how much it is helping.

Clinicals

You know you are in EMS when you have to stop asking your patients what day of the week it is because you don’t know the answer.
Both days my first call was run at 0558. Walk in the door and get toned out.
Tip to other newbies, be ready when you walk in the door. Have you stuff in your pockets.

Lost it after a call on Monday.
What do you do when you don’t know what to do?

One thing from scenarios, sometimes there isn’t anything you can really do, so you just support ABCs.

Mentions:

Listener Questions

[MedicTests.com spot]

Hey Ron and Kelly:

I am a very hot-natured person. In my current A-EMT Class we are required to wear uniforms that consist 5.11 pants, a t-shirt and a uniform shirt. We are to always have both shirts on. Is there a way I can stay cool in this uniform instead of sweating like a pig in the middle of a classroom and especially during my clinicals? I have heard that Under Armour keeps you cool but I have also heard it holds the heat in. Do you have any suggestions for a fat southern boy that sweats when its only 70 degrees here in Georgia?

Thanks

Tim “Future NR-AEMT”

Andrew
Question for Kelly,
I recently purchased your book and read the chapter “Crying Wolf”. Could you explain more about the “White Lead CPR” and any other quirks that you may know about when messing with the leads on the ECG? Thanks!

Ryan
Learned something new today, but wanted to hear your opinion on the matter.

Had a patient who was hyperventilating, and seeing as how we are unable to use the paper bag method, the medic decided to use a NRB on 4lpm. This method did help to slow the respiration rate from about 40bpm to around 28bpm.

Have you ever heard of doing this before, or do you have any other ideas on what one could do?

Get complete information on the The Confessions of an EMS Newbie Podcast.
Subscribe or review on iTunes.
]]> http://www.emsnewbie.com/2012/02/77-breakdown/feed/ 0 (38:42) Ron has a bit of an emotional breakdown during a clinical this week and we talk about the effects of fatigue and how you handle not knowing what to do. Also how do you know when you are ready? - What I Did This Week (38:42) Ron has a bit of an emotional breakdown during a clinical this week and we talk about the effects of fatigue and how you handle not knowing what to do. Also how do you know when you are ready? What I Did This Week Assessment Based Management More scenarios and I'm wondering a little how much it is helping. Clinicals You know you are in EMS when you have to stop asking your patients what day of the week it is because you don't know the answer. Both days my first call was run at 0558. Walk in the door and get toned out. Tip to other newbies, be ready when you walk in the door. Have you stuff in your pockets. Lost it after a call on Monday. What do you do when you don't know what to do? One thing from scenarios, sometimes there isn't anything you can really do, so you just support ABCs. Mentions: Listener Questions [MedicTests.com spot] Hey Ron and Kelly: I am a very hot-natured person. In my current A-EMT Class we are required to wear uniforms that consist 5.11 pants, a t-shirt and a uniform shirt. We are to always have both shirts on. Is there a way I can stay cool in this uniform instead of sweating like a pig in the middle of a classroom and especially during my clinicals? I have heard that Under Armour keeps you cool but I have also heard it holds the heat in. Do you have any suggestions for a fat southern boy that sweats when its only 70 degrees here in Georgia? Thanks Tim "Future NR-AEMT" Andrew Question for Kelly, I recently purchased your book and read the chapter "Crying Wolf". Could you explain more about the "White Lead CPR" and any other quirks that you may know about when messing with the leads on the ECG? Thanks! Ryan Learned something new today, but wanted to hear your opinion on the matter. Had a patient who was hyperventilating, and seeing as how we are unable to use the paper bag method, the medic decided to use a NRB on 4lpm. This method did help to slow the respiration rate from about 40bpm to around 28bpm. Have you ever heard of doing this before, or do you have any other ideas on what one could do? Get complete information on the The Confessions of an EMS Newbie Podcast.Subscribe or review on iTunes. Ron Davis & Kelly Grayson no 38:42 SP08 – National Test Prep http://www.emsnewbie.com/2012/02/sp08-national-test-prep/ http://www.emsnewbie.com/2012/02/sp08-national-test-prep/#comments Sun, 12 Feb 2012 00:39:29 +0000 Ron http://www.emsnewbie.com/?p=1120

(26:25) This week the Newbie sets down with Joseph Storm of MedicTests.com and talks about preparing for the national registry EMT and Paramedic tests. Joe gives some really great tips on taking and passing the test. What are the most common questions about Incident Command? What is the most common acidosis question and answer? Listen to this episode and find out.

Did you know current neuroscience says studying at a certain interval makes you more likely to learn the material. Listen to find out what that interval may be.

Mentions:
MedicTest.com Blog
Brain Rules Book.

Get complete information on the The Confessions of an EMS Newbie Podcast.
Subscribe or review on iTunes.
]]> http://www.emsnewbie.com/2012/02/sp08-national-test-prep/feed/ 0 (26:25) This week the Newbie sets down with Joseph Storm of MedicTests.com and talks about preparing for the national registry EMT and Paramedic tests. Joe gives some really great tips on taking and passing the test. (26:25) This week the Newbie sets down with Joseph Storm of MedicTests.com and talks about preparing for the national registry EMT and Paramedic tests. Joe gives some really great tips on taking and passing the test. What are the most common questions about Incident Command? What is the most common acidosis question and answer? Listen to this episode and find out. Did you know current neuroscience says studying at a certain interval makes you more likely to learn the material. Listen to find out what that interval may be. Mentions: MedicTest.com Blog Brain Rules Book. Get complete information on the The Confessions of an EMS Newbie Podcast.Subscribe or review on iTunes. Ron Davis & Kelly Grayson no 26:25 76 Calling In Reports http://www.emsnewbie.com/2012/01/76-calling-in-reports/ http://www.emsnewbie.com/2012/01/76-calling-in-reports/#comments Tue, 31 Jan 2012 07:00:56 +0000 Ron http://www.emsnewbie.com/?p=1111

(32:01) Starting a new semester with testing. And doing medic things everyone does, but that he hasn’t learned yet.

What I Did This Week

Assessment Based Management

Tested all our paramedic skills.
The one that got the most people was Static Cardiology.
I got all the rhythms, but mess-up 2 drug doses
Also you have to treat the patient, meaning if they have a bee sting and no cardiac issue treat an allergic reaction

Clinicals

First time to call in reports to hospitals.
On the phone.
Wrote it down first

Mentions:

6 Second ECG
No Guts No Glory Blog Post

Listener Questions

peter
Hello guys. I am a teenager who is taking the EMT course in just a week. For the past 2 years I have been listening to podcasts, reading books, talking to EMTs, and other stuff to prepare me with a thirst to help others. However I watched a video in drivers ed today about a student from my high school who during his Junior year got severely injured in a car accident. In this video they interviewed the EMTs from my local EMS service, who I personally know. In that moment it hit me, I might have to see someone my age get severely inured and I became sick to my stomach, almost fainting. and doubting in the first time in over 2 years that I want to be an EMT. Do either of you ever have the same idea as me? If so what do you do about it? Thanks,
EMT Soxfan
Hey there, I have an odd question maybe. I’m a super-green EMT at a fire dept. I was on one of my first shifts (24hr) and being at the station ate dinner with everyone. Shortly after the meal, when going to bed I started to get really nausiated and woke up several times to throw up. We had a call come in at 3AM-ish and I had not idea what to do. I didn’t want to be a wimp so I shut up and just went to the call, figuring it was just food poisoning anyway and wouldn’t endanger the patient. Fought back the up-slushie through the transport and threw up the second we got back. What should I have done? Was this bad EMS etiquette? Bad for the px? Didn’t know where to ask- I’m too embarrassed to bring it up at the station…
Jason
Catching up on the podcast and listened to 73 where you asked about ALTE and studying for peds par of the registry. We require PEPP for our medic students when we do PHTLS and ACLS at the end of the programas refreshers going into the exam. PEPP is an all ob/peds emergency class that covers ALTE and also counts for all registry recert hours. Give it a shot its a good class.
ken wrote:
great show guys. Question for you Kelly. Have you seen before any type of sticker for your car windshield that states the driver is diabetic & to call 911 if you suspect the driver is having a diabetic emergency?? I was walking into a local store and noticed a car parked in the handicapped spot having one of these stickers on the corner of the windshield on the drivers side.
Ron and Kelly,
Will you two continue the show after Ron has graduated from Paramedic school? Is there a chance of a future “EMS Newbie” coming aboard? I’m starting Paramedic school myself in January, and this show has been a great resource. Thanks for all that you guys do, and keep up the good work!
Happy Holidays!,
Nate
Mike
I’m another 40 something photographer that is getting into EMS. In fact I know two other photographers that are paramedics. I got my basic a year ago and just finished my intermediate. Now I want to decide between medic school or nursing school. What are some of your greatest challenges as an older student starting in a new field. Do you still plan on doing photography work once you get out of school?
shannon
Dear Kelly and Ron, I noticed that you have not done Mother and Speed reference yet, which is odd considering the intro to the show. Love the show, I am an EMT in LA and have been listening for almost a year. Question for Kelly, any tips on getting published?
Get complete information on the The Confessions of an EMS Newbie Podcast.
Subscribe or review on iTunes.
]]> http://www.emsnewbie.com/2012/01/76-calling-in-reports/feed/ 1 (32:01) Starting a new semester with testing. And doing medic things everyone does, but that he hasn't learned yet. - What I Did This Week Assessment Based Management Tested all our paramedic skills. The one that got the most people was Static Card... (32:01) Starting a new semester with testing. And doing medic things everyone does, but that he hasn't learned yet. What I Did This Week Assessment Based Management Tested all our paramedic skills. The one that got the most people was Static Card... Ron Davis & Kelly Grayson no 32:01 75 Real Medic Stuff Now http://www.emsnewbie.com/2012/01/75-read-medic-stuff-now/ http://www.emsnewbie.com/2012/01/75-read-medic-stuff-now/#comments Tue, 17 Jan 2012 23:05:24 +0000 Ron http://www.emsnewbie.com/?p=1100

(45:44) We’re back from a long break and the Newbie has been busy. Ron started his clinical internship and have now done 4 24 hour shifts with one crew at the Harris County Emergency Corps.

He’s learning a lot, here’s some of the thing Ron and Kelly talk about:
How to use the IV cath right
How to do CHART. I now understand it and even take notes in it.
Running calls. Lasted about 30 seconds in my first call.
Turns out it was likely a AAA( Or was it? Listen to Kelly’s comment), but it was seizures with a fall to start and I just didn’t know what to do.
Vs ran my first MVC yesterday and did pretty good. A little too much scene time. Not enough delegation.
My preceptor is really good. She reviews calls after I run them, gives good feedback. Let’s me beat myself up only so much.
Also gives me homework. Quizzing me on my ALS.

Calls:
1/6 = 6
1/12= 3
12/29 = 6
1/4 = 6

Started my new job.
Service is really different.
Big difference between a 2 paramedic truck and a Paramedic/Basic truck.
Kelly do you do truck chores? Or is that all on the other guy?
New experiences there:
System status management.
Working 12 instead of 24.
Going to prison.
Not having 2 level 1 trauma hospitals at your beck and call.

Sorry for not keeping up with the show, but as you see Ron and been doing something every day. Now we’re both on weird EMS schedules, so expect Newbie will be on a weird schedule too. Not more releasing on a particular day, because we may not be able to record on a regular one.

Get complete information on the The Confessions of an EMS Newbie Podcast.
Subscribe or review on iTunes.
]]> http://www.emsnewbie.com/2012/01/75-read-medic-stuff-now/feed/ 0 (45:44) We're back from a long break and the Newbie has been busy. Ron started his clinical internship and have now done 4 24 hour shifts with one crew at the Harris County Emergency Corps. - He's learning a lot, (45:44) We're back from a long break and the Newbie has been busy. Ron started his clinical internship and have now done 4 24 hour shifts with one crew at the Harris County Emergency Corps. He's learning a lot, here's some of the thing Ron and Kelly talk about: How to use the IV cath right How to do CHART. I now understand it and even take notes in it. Running calls. Lasted about 30 seconds in my first call. Turns out it was likely a AAA( Or was it? Listen to Kelly's comment), but it was seizures with a fall to start and I just didn't know what to do. Vs ran my first MVC yesterday and did pretty good. A little too much scene time. Not enough delegation. My preceptor is really good. She reviews calls after I run them, gives good feedback. Let's me beat myself up only so much. Also gives me homework. Quizzing me on my ALS. Calls: 1/6 = 6 1/12= 3 12/29 = 6 1/4 = 6 Started my new job. Service is really different. Big difference between a 2 paramedic truck and a Paramedic/Basic truck. Kelly do you do truck chores? Or is that all on the other guy? New experiences there: System status management. Working 12 instead of 24. Going to prison. Not having 2 level 1 trauma hospitals at your beck and call. Sorry for not keeping up with the show, but as you see Ron and been doing something every day. Now we're both on weird EMS schedules, so expect Newbie will be on a weird schedule too. Not more releasing on a particular day, because we may not be able to record on a regular one. Get complete information on the The Confessions of an EMS Newbie Podcast.Subscribe or review on iTunes. Ron Davis & Kelly Grayson no 45:44 74 The Final Final http://www.emsnewbie.com/2011/12/74-the-final-final/ http://www.emsnewbie.com/2011/12/74-the-final-final/#comments Mon, 19 Dec 2011 07:00:09 +0000 marcm http://www.emsnewbie.com/?p=1092

(21:58) Ron goes through his final final and some skills testing. No more lectures, no more teacher’s dirty looks.

What I Did This Week

Clinicals

Paper work. What a pain.

Mentions:

Bob Page on Stethoscopes

Listener Questions

I had originally planned to contact Kelly directly, but then realized his answer would probably be useful for EMS Newbie fans as well.

Hey Kelly, I know that you’ve blogged on this topic many times and I’ve got a quick question for you. Since you’re apt to transport some rather sick (yet not entirely time sensitive) patients without lights, sirens, and guns a blazin’, do you sometimes still describe your transport as “emergent” when giving radio report to ensure the receiving staff understands that the patient is sick? It would sure be nice to trust that painting a clinical picture would be enough to alert the nurses that they should plan on placing the patient a corner or hallway, but having spent a lot of time working in the department, I fear the staff would sometimes be too busy and distracted to pick up on less overt signals. Even with a fairly obvious description, our nurses are often multi-tasking while taking radio report, and it would be very easy to assume: “The patient can’t be that sick, I didn’t hear any sirens and they’re non-emergent.” As always, thanks for the podcast,
– Vince

Hi Ron, hope you are well. I was just wondering if either you or kelly had heard of the ‘lethal triad’ with regards to trauma and whether this was something that you guys were being taught about on your course or whether you thought it should be?

Warm regards from a cold england
Jamie

On the GI symptoms relating to anaphalaxis, I had heard that people with a new food allergy will often go through a progression of allergy symptoms to a certain stimulus before reaching full-blown anaphalaxis, often starting with GI symptoms. My understanding was that they would consume the food and have nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea but not necessarily an airway issue, so it might be written off as “bad food” or stomach bug or something similar. Next time they ate that food, maybe they had worse GI symptoms but still did not connect the issue. Eventually it progresses up to true anaphalaxis with airway issues. Have y’all heard anything similar?
Andaew – Hey, In regards to stethoscope is there really a difference from a low end stethoscope and a high end stethoscope? If there is a difference how much of a difference is it and would it be worthwhile purchasing a higher quality stethoscope?
Get complete information on the The Confessions of an EMS Newbie Podcast.
Subscribe or review on iTunes.
]]> http://www.emsnewbie.com/2011/12/74-the-final-final/feed/ 2 (21:58) Ron goes through his final final and some skills testing. No more lectures, no more teacher's dirty looks. What I Did This Week Clinicals Paper work. What a pain. - Mentions: Bob Page on Stethoscopes - Listener Questions - (21:58) Ron goes through his final final and some skills testing. No more lectures, no more teacher's dirty looks. What I Did This Week Clinicals Paper work. What a pain. Mentions: Bob Page on Stethoscopes Listener Questions I had originally planned to contact Kelly directly, but then realized his answer would probably be useful for EMS Newbie fans as well. Hey Kelly, I know that you've blogged on this topic many times and I've got a quick question for you. Since you're apt to transport some rather sick (yet not entirely time sensitive) patients without lights, sirens, and guns a blazin', do you sometimes still describe your transport as "emergent" when giving radio report to ensure the receiving staff understands that the patient is sick? It would sure be nice to trust that painting a clinical picture would be enough to alert the nurses that they should plan on placing the patient a corner or hallway, but having spent a lot of time working in the department, I fear the staff would sometimes be too busy and distracted to pick up on less overt signals. Even with a fairly obvious description, our nurses are often multi-tasking while taking radio report, and it would be very easy to assume: "The patient can't be that sick, I didn't hear any sirens and they're non-emergent." As always, thanks for the podcast, - Vince Hi Ron, hope you are well. I was just wondering if either you or kelly had heard of the 'lethal triad' with regards to trauma and whether this was something that you guys were being taught about on your course or whether you thought it should be? Warm regards from a cold england Jamie On the GI symptoms relating to anaphalaxis, I had heard that people with a new food allergy will often go through a progression of allergy symptoms to a certain stimulus before reaching full-blown anaphalaxis, often starting with GI symptoms. My understanding was that they would consume the food and have nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea but not necessarily an airway issue, so it might be written off as "bad food" or stomach bug or something similar. Next time they ate that food, maybe they had worse GI symptoms but still did not connect the issue. Eventually it progresses up to true anaphalaxis with airway issues. Have y'all heard anything similar? Andaew - Hey, In regards to stethoscope is there really a difference from a low end stethoscope and a high end stethoscope? If there is a difference how much of a difference is it and would it be worthwhile purchasing a higher quality stethoscope? Get complete information on the The Confessions of an EMS Newbie Podcast.Subscribe or review on iTunes. Ron Davis & Kelly Grayson no 21:58 73 Environmental Emergencies http://www.emsnewbie.com/2011/12/73-environmental-emergencies/ http://www.emsnewbie.com/2011/12/73-environmental-emergencies/#comments Mon, 12 Dec 2011 07:30:50 +0000 Ron http://www.emsnewbie.com/?p=1086

(29:40) Ron has his last lecture of paramedic school and it is about Environmental Emergencies.

What I Did This Week

Medical Emergencies

Environmental Emergencies
Heat
Cold
Do you have a low temperature thermometer?
We’ll see hypothermia in Houston because there are lots of ways to have it happen, but she said not going to see frostbite. Then my wife posted to FB it was snowing in Abilene.
Drowning
Fresh vs saltwater
Fresh washes away surfactant.
Since salt water is osmotic, do you risk hypovolemia?

Special Populations

Final review

Clinicals

Final paperwork

Mentions:

ALTE University of Chicago

Listener Questions

Hey Kelly and Ron. Or is it Ron and Kelly? I’ve been following he podcast since the beginning as I was starting EMT B right after Ron. It was a cool experience to go through the class while listening to Ron’s show at the same time. Now I am half way through P school. My school is segregated in to thirds. Didactic-Clincals-Externship (intern). Unfortunately I have become extremely unmotivated during my clinicals. I know this is an important part of the learning process but it’s really dragging me down. I know the general answer to many issues is to “man up”, but I was wondering if this is common and if you have any advice on making it through this phase. In my EMS experience there is nothing I dislike more than working in an ER. I really appreciate the folks who can spend a career in there.

Russell

Could y’all talk about ALTE’s? It relates to the blue baby that resolves prior to EMS arrival. After having one of these, I did research on it and it apparently can be a precursor to SIDS. Our protocol mandates that we always, always, always transport these kids due to that risk. Is this related to the cardiac conditions Kelly discussed, or is it different?

We discuss airway obstruction beyond the vocal cords.

What was your first Oh $#!T moment as a EMT and as a paramedic What did you learn from it? – Andaew
Michael wrote:
Kelly, Are you one hundred percent positive that 250 mLs of D5W has the same of amount of dextrose and D50. My math shows that 250 mLs of D5W would have 12.5 g of dextrose (glucose). Just curious.

Get complete information on the The Confessions of an EMS Newbie Podcast.
Subscribe or review on iTunes.
]]> http://www.emsnewbie.com/2011/12/73-environmental-emergencies/feed/ 1 (29:40) Ron has his last lecture of paramedic school and it is about Environmental Emergencies. - What I Did This Week Medical Emergencies Environmental Emergencies Heat Cold Do you have a low temperature thermometer? (29:40) Ron has his last lecture of paramedic school and it is about Environmental Emergencies. What I Did This Week Medical Emergencies Environmental Emergencies Heat Cold Do you have a low temperature thermometer? We'll see hypothermia in Houston because there are lots of ways to have it happen, but she said not going to see frostbite. Then my wife posted to FB it was snowing in Abilene. Drowning Fresh vs saltwater Fresh washes away surfactant. Since salt water is osmotic, do you risk hypovolemia? Special Populations Final review Clinicals Final paperwork Mentions: ALTE University of Chicago Listener Questions Hey Kelly and Ron. Or is it Ron and Kelly? I've been following he podcast since the beginning as I was starting EMT B right after Ron. It was a cool experience to go through the class while listening to Ron's show at the same time. Now I am half way through P school. My school is segregated in to thirds. Didactic-Clincals-Externship (intern). Unfortunately I have become extremely unmotivated during my clinicals. I know this is an important part of the learning process but it's really dragging me down. I know the general answer to many issues is to "man up", but I was wondering if this is common and if you have any advice on making it through this phase. In my EMS experience there is nothing I dislike more than working in an ER. I really appreciate the folks who can spend a career in there. Russell Could y'all talk about ALTE's? It relates to the blue baby that resolves prior to EMS arrival. After having one of these, I did research on it and it apparently can be a precursor to SIDS. Our protocol mandates that we always, always, always transport these kids due to that risk. Is this related to the cardiac conditions Kelly discussed, or is it different? We discuss airway obstruction beyond the vocal cords. What was your first Oh $#!T moment as a EMT and as a paramedic What did you learn from it? - Andaew Michael wrote: Kelly, Are you one hundred percent positive that 250 mLs of D5W has the same of amount of dextrose and D50. My math shows that 250 mLs of D5W would have 12.5 g of dextrose (glucose). Just curious. Get complete information on the The Confessions of an EMS Newbie Podcast.Subscribe or review on iTunes. Ron Davis & Kelly Grayson no 29:40 72 Hematology and Burn Out http://www.emsnewbie.com/2011/12/72-hematology-and-burn-out/ http://www.emsnewbie.com/2011/12/72-hematology-and-burn-out/#comments Mon, 05 Dec 2011 07:00:05 +0000 Ron http://www.emsnewbie.com/?p=1080

(33:54) Blooooodddd, maybe this should have been the halloween episode. Ron learns about blood diseases. Its also scary how burned out everyone in class is getting at this point. Only 3 weeks to go.

Ron gets his textbook changed. He also gets an EMS job, find out what’s scary about that on this week’s episode.

What I Did This Week

Got something added to the new addition of Paramedic Care, Testicular Torsion

Had a Job interview – I got the job

Medical Emergencies

Another test. Are they trying to trick us?

Special Populations

Skills lab – Which do you think is the most challenging skill when testing?

Airway lab

Clinicals

Giving Glucagon IM when you can’t get a vein for Dextrose

Christine asked about it. Someone on FB asked about it.

I had an interesting situation with Oral glucose when we could’t get a vein.

Listener Questions

Please help settle a debate that has torn my partner and I apart. We’ve argued in many different hospitals, stations, and nursing homes about pushing D50 through an IO. It’s not actually a situation we run into often; I think we just like to argue.

One of us argues that pushing D50 via IO is practically a guarantee that the patient will lose a limb. The other thinks we would have heard about all these limbs going necrotic by now, and that it would be discussed in EMS more or perhaps popping up in a new protocol.

Thanks in advance,
James

Hi Ron and Kelly. I have an answer, a question and a comment for you all.
The answer to the question Kelly was asking on episode 66 is the McMartin Preschool trial, which took place in California.

The question is I am an EMT student and our program has just released us to do ambulance ride alongs. What are the best things I can do to have an effective ride along experience and help, rather than hinder my preceptors?

Finally the comment- I’ve been listening to your podcast since episode one and it, along with your can do approach is a significant reason why this 40 something guy believed that it would be possible to become an EMT.

Thanks and keep up the good work!

-Marc

Get complete information on the The Confessions of an EMS Newbie Podcast.
Subscribe or review on iTunes.
]]> http://www.emsnewbie.com/2011/12/72-hematology-and-burn-out/feed/ 2 (33:54) Blooooodddd, maybe this should have been the halloween episode. Ron learns about blood diseases. Its also scary how burned out everyone in class is getting at this point. Only 3 weeks to go. - Ron gets his textbook changed. (33:54) Blooooodddd, maybe this should have been the halloween episode. Ron learns about blood diseases. Its also scary how burned out everyone in class is getting at this point. Only 3 weeks to go. Ron gets his textbook changed. He also gets an EMS job, find out what's scary about that on this week's episode. What I Did This Week Got something added to the new addition of Paramedic Care, Testicular Torsion Had a Job interview - I got the job Medical Emergencies Another test. Are they trying to trick us? Special Populations Skills lab - Which do you think is the most challenging skill when testing? Airway lab Clinicals Giving Glucagon IM when you can't get a vein for Dextrose Christine asked about it. Someone on FB asked about it. I had an interesting situation with Oral glucose when we could't get a vein. Listener Questions Please help settle a debate that has torn my partner and I apart. We've argued in many different hospitals, stations, and nursing homes about pushing D50 through an IO. It's not actually a situation we run into often; I think we just like to argue. One of us argues that pushing D50 via IO is practically a guarantee that the patient will lose a limb. The other thinks we would have heard about all these limbs going necrotic by now, and that it would be discussed in EMS more or perhaps popping up in a new protocol. Thanks in advance, James Hi Ron and Kelly. I have an answer, a question and a comment for you all. The answer to the question Kelly was asking on episode 66 is the McMartin Preschool trial, which took place in California. The question is I am an EMT student and our program has just released us to do ambulance ride alongs. What are the best things I can do to have an effective ride along experience and help, rather than hinder my preceptors? Finally the comment- I've been listening to your podcast since episode one and it, along with your can do approach is a significant reason why this 40 something guy believed that it would be possible to become an EMT. Thanks and keep up the good work! -Marc Get complete information on the The Confessions of an EMS Newbie Podcast.Subscribe or review on iTunes. Ron Davis & Kelly Grayson no 33:54 71 2011 Texas EMS Conference http://www.emsnewbie.com/2011/11/71-2011-texas-ems-conference/ http://www.emsnewbie.com/2011/11/71-2011-texas-ems-conference/#comments Mon, 28 Nov 2011 10:00:45 +0000 marcm http://www.emsnewbie.com/?p=1069

(27:30) This week Ron and Kelly podcast live from the 2011 Texas EMS Conference. They discuss the different lectures and sessions they attended, which were good, which were packed so full of information it was tough to keep up and which left the brain as soon as the feet left the room.

There’s talk of C-PAPP, the number one reason of geriatric altered mental status, another episode of “This week in firearms”, retrograde intubation, and the new myths of EMS by Dr. Brian Bledsoe.

Get complete information on the The Confessions of an EMS Newbie Podcast.
Subscribe or review on iTunes.
]]> http://www.emsnewbie.com/2011/11/71-2011-texas-ems-conference/feed/ 2 (27:30) This week Ron and Kelly podcast live from the 2011 Texas EMS Conference. They discuss the different lectures and sessions they attended, which were good, which were packed so full of information it was tough to keep up and which left the brai... (27:30) This week Ron and Kelly podcast live from the 2011 Texas EMS Conference. They discuss the different lectures and sessions they attended, which were good, which were packed so full of information it was tough to keep up and which left the brain as soon as the feet left the room. There's talk of C-PAPP, the number one reason of geriatric altered mental status, another episode of "This week in firearms", retrograde intubation, and the new myths of EMS by Dr. Brian Bledsoe. Get complete information on the The Confessions of an EMS Newbie Podcast.Subscribe or review on iTunes. Ron Davis & Kelly Grayson no 70 Toxicology and Abuse http://www.emsnewbie.com/2011/11/70-toxicology-and-abuse/ http://www.emsnewbie.com/2011/11/70-toxicology-and-abuse/#comments Mon, 21 Nov 2011 02:26:11 +0000 Ron http://www.emsnewbie.com/?p=1055

(42:15) Ron and Kelly talk about overdoses and antidotes, how to deal with calls that have signs of domestic abuse, and we hear that Ron’s white cloud, may be getting a bit more grey…

What I Did This Week

Medical Emergencies

*What are typical overdoses?*
Do you carry any antidotes?
Warming activated charcoal?
Carry ipecac syrup? Use it?
Given/use Flumazenil for Benzodiazepines OD?
Cyanide anti-dote kit?
Huffers use gold paint.
CO-oximetry?
Procardia – not given because people would OD it in gel tablet sublingual.
Calcium Channel we give calcium to fix
Beta-blockers we don’t give beta-agonist
Why?

Special Populations

Abuse

Clinicals

Lots of calls. Last EMS. Funny crew.

Mentions:

Harris County Emergency Corp

Listener Questions

This a random question for Ron: Do you plan on advancing any further once you get your paramedic? Like maybe to a PA or nurse, or go the route Kelly took and specialize in a particular branch of EMS?I’m still loving the podcast!
-EMS FREAK
Get complete information on the The Confessions of an EMS Newbie Podcast.
Subscribe or review on iTunes.
]]> http://www.emsnewbie.com/2011/11/70-toxicology-and-abuse/feed/ 0 (42:15) Ron and Kelly talk about overdoses and antidotes, how to deal with calls that have signs of domestic abuse, and we hear that Ron's white cloud, may be getting a bit more grey... - What I Did This Week Medical Emergencies (42:15) Ron and Kelly talk about overdoses and antidotes, how to deal with calls that have signs of domestic abuse, and we hear that Ron's white cloud, may be getting a bit more grey... What I Did This Week Medical Emergencies *What are typical overdoses?* Do you carry any antidotes? Warming activated charcoal? Carry ipecac syrup? Use it? Given/use Flumazenil for Benzodiazepines OD? Cyanide anti-dote kit? Huffers use gold paint. CO-oximetry? Procardia - not given because people would OD it in gel tablet sublingual. Calcium Channel we give calcium to fix Beta-blockers we don't give beta-agonist Why? Special Populations Abuse Clinicals Lots of calls. Last EMS. Funny crew. Mentions: Harris County Emergency Corp Listener Questions This a random question for Ron: Do you plan on advancing any further once you get your paramedic? Like maybe to a PA or nurse, or go the route Kelly took and specialize in a particular branch of EMS?I'm still loving the podcast! -EMS FREAK Get complete information on the The Confessions of an EMS Newbie Podcast.Subscribe or review on iTunes. Ron Davis & Kelly Grayson no 42:15 69 NICU and Geriatrics http://www.emsnewbie.com/2011/11/69-nicu-and-geriatrics/ http://www.emsnewbie.com/2011/11/69-nicu-and-geriatrics/#comments Mon, 14 Nov 2011 07:01:16 +0000 Ron http://www.emsnewbie.com/?p=1048

(24:42) Ron and Kelly talk about the upcoming Texas EMS conference, Syncopal episodes in geriatric patients, the rainbow of newborns and why or why not there can be male L&D nurses.

What I Did This Week

Medical Emergencies

Had a test. Don’t know what I made, but still improving.

Special Populations

Geriatrics
What’s the most common reason you see for syncope in older people?
How obvious do you see the signs for a CVA?
Transporting TIAs?

Clinicals

NICU
Still no vaginal birth
Saw 3 C-sections
Baby color
NICU nurse who said, “I can’t be an L&D nurse. Moms are too picky.”

Mentions:

Listener Questions

My name is Danny and I work for BC Ambulance in British Columbia, Canada. I am a Primary Care Paramedic, which roughly aligns with an EMT in terms of qualifications. I listen to your podcast weekly and heard your appeal for more listener questions. I gave it some thought and came up with the following.
—–
In school I was taught “wet side down” in reference to packaging a trauma patient with a penetrating chest wound. Also, we have protocols that state a patient with a pneumothorax should be positioned affected side down. I’m not sure, but I think the rationale to support this thinking is, keep the good lung up so it is in the best position to promote ventilation and, therefore, has the best chance of oxygenating the body.
While I was in the ED at our local hospital, I observed a doctor drain 2 liters of fluid from a patient’s lung. The doctor began asking me patho questions. He wanted to know how I would position his patient for best perfusion. I bumbled through the “wet side down” theory, thinking it applied to this situation.
He had no time for the affected lung down theory. He graciously explained how the bad lung should be positioned up in order to allow the greatest blood flow to the good lung. He talked about shunting… how the ineffective lung was still receiving oxygen poor blood, but was unable to oxygenate that blood. Positioning the good lung down ensured the greatest amount of venus blood flowed past the good lung, increasing the percentage of total blood oxygenation.
—–
I was hoping Kelly could comment on the “wet side down” way of thinking and why one might choose that patient positioning.

Also, it would be interesting to hear a comment regarding when your protocols do not align with good thinking or sound statistics. Examples of this might be 30 to 2 cpr compared to uninterrupted compressions or using D50 rather than D10 in the hypoglycemic patient. It’s hard for me to think about doing something that is detrimental to my patient in the name of following our treatment guidelines.
- Danny

Also, can I get some suggestions for pulse oximeters, what are some tips you have when someone either has fingernail polish or other problem with there finger. Would a toe work? I have seen the side of a finger. Maybe an ear? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Love the show,
Sam

On the podcast, Kelly said something about EMS shouldn’t do CPR on
traumatic arrest patients. Last week, a girl stabbed 20 times, who
arrested three times en-route, was discharged today. Given this story
shouldn’t EMS do CPR on traumatic arrest patients?

http://www.seattlepi.com/news/article/Doctors-describe-teen-stabbing-victim-s-injuries-2242373.php

Timothy

Since you said you haven’t had many listener questions, i figured i would ask one for the heck of it. Here in west michigan, we are serviced by AeroMed flying a Sikorsky S-76, (Apx. 52ft in length, with a 44ft wingspan.) From what i’ve been told, it’s pretty darn big for a Medical Chopper. What do you usually see down there, and what are the advantages for a large chopper and for a small one?
Thanks! – Ryan
Get complete information on the The Confessions of an EMS Newbie Podcast.
Subscribe or review on iTunes.
]]> http://www.emsnewbie.com/2011/11/69-nicu-and-geriatrics/feed/ 0 (24:42) Ron and Kelly talk about the upcoming Texas EMS conference, Syncopal episodes in geriatric patients, the rainbow of newborns and why or why not there can be male L&D nurses. - What I Did This Week Medical Emergencies Had a test. (24:42) Ron and Kelly talk about the upcoming Texas EMS conference, Syncopal episodes in geriatric patients, the rainbow of newborns and why or why not there can be male L&D nurses. What I Did This Week Medical Emergencies Had a test. Don't know what I made, but still improving. Special Populations Geriatrics What's the most common reason you see for syncope in older people? How obvious do you see the signs for a CVA? Transporting TIAs? Clinicals NICU Still no vaginal birth Saw 3 C-sections Baby color NICU nurse who said, "I can't be an L&D nurse. Moms are too picky." Mentions: Listener Questions My name is Danny and I work for BC Ambulance in British Columbia, Canada. I am a Primary Care Paramedic, which roughly aligns with an EMT in terms of qualifications. I listen to your podcast weekly and heard your appeal for more listener questions. I gave it some thought and came up with the following. ----- In school I was taught “wet side down” in reference to packaging a trauma patient with a penetrating chest wound. Also, we have protocols that state a patient with a pneumothorax should be positioned affected side down. I’m not sure, but I think the rationale to support this thinking is, keep the good lung up so it is in the best position to promote ventilation and, therefore, has the best chance of oxygenating the body. While I was in the ED at our local hospital, I observed a doctor drain 2 liters of fluid from a patient’s lung. The doctor began asking me patho questions. He wanted to know how I would position his patient for best perfusion. I bumbled through the “wet side down” theory, thinking it applied to this situation. He had no time for the affected lung down theory. He graciously explained how the bad lung should be positioned up in order to allow the greatest blood flow to the good lung. He talked about shunting… how the ineffective lung was still receiving oxygen poor blood, but was unable to oxygenate that blood. Positioning the good lung down ensured the greatest amount of venus blood flowed past the good lung, increasing the percentage of total blood oxygenation. ----- I was hoping Kelly could comment on the “wet side down” way of thinking and why one might choose that patient positioning. Also, it would be interesting to hear a comment regarding when your protocols do not align with good thinking or sound statistics. Examples of this might be 30 to 2 cpr compared to uninterrupted compressions or using D50 rather than D10 in the hypoglycemic patient. It's hard for me to think about doing something that is detrimental to my patient in the name of following our treatment guidelines. - Danny Also, can I get some suggestions for pulse oximeters, what are some tips you have when someone either has fingernail polish or other problem with there finger. Would a toe work? I have seen the side of a finger. Maybe an ear? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Love the show, Sam On the podcast, Kelly said something about EMS shouldn't do CPR on traumatic arrest patients. Last week, a girl stabbed 20 times, who arrested three times en-route, was discharged today. Given this story shouldn't EMS do CPR on traumatic arrest patients? http://www.seattlepi.com/news/article/Doctors-describe-teen-stabbing-victim-s-injuries-2242373.php Timothy Since you said you haven't had many listener questions, i figured i would ask one for the heck of it. Here in west michigan, we are serviced by AeroMed flying a Sikorsky S-76, (Apx. 52ft in length, with a 44ft wingspan.) From what i've been told, it's pretty darn big for a Medical Chopper. What do you usually see down there, and what are the advantages for a large chopper and for a small one? Thanks! - Ryan Get complete information on the The Confessions of an EMS Newbie Podcast.Subscribe or review on iTunes. Ron Davis & Kelly Grayson no 24:42