Individuals who have post-concussive syndrome or symptoms that occur after traumatic brain injury often have problems with functions such as: attention, judgment, memory, the ability to coordinate activities, and effective cooperation. EMS personnel should have a foundational understanding of what TBI is and the ongoing needs of people living with one or more cognitive, emotional, or behavioral disabilities.
Featuring Deputy Chief Ben Chlapek, from Central Jackson County Fire Protection District. Dr Gary Abram, Rehabilitation Section Chief, at San Francisco VA Medical Center
Spinal Injury Management
Although the most familiar approach to vascular access is the intravenous catheter or IV, the most seriously ill or injured patient has little of no peripheral circulation allowing for rapid IV access. Fortunately, there is another option: intraosseous (IO) access and infusion. This course provides the guidelines for the proper use of IO devices, outlines the indications and contraindications of IO, and demonstrates why IO can be a viable alternative to IV in an emergency situation.
Featuring Scotty Bolleter, BS, Paramedic Chief Centre for Emergency Health Sciences.
Sports Injuries
Head, neck and spine injuries are common injuries that occur with contact sports. Many states have laws requiring coaches to assess for head injuries and to restrict all players with potential head injuries (concussions) from further participation until cleared by a physician. Another risk for athletes is sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). This course reviews how to recognize and respond to typical contact sport injuries, with a special focus on the relationship between the athletic trainer and the EMS crew during an emergency.
Featuring Paul A. Berlin, Ms, NREMT-P Medical Division Chief (Ret.) Gig Harbor, Washington
Tourniquets & Hemorrhage Control
Recommendations on hemorrhage control, hemostatic agents, and tourniquets are changing in the pre-hospital field based on new levels of experience in military medicine. Reviewed are the causes and types of blood loss, internal and external bleeding, the signs and symptoms of hemorrhage, and the treatment protocols for these injuries.
Featuring: Lt. C. John McManus, MD, MCR, FACEP, FAAEM Director for the Center for Pre-Deployment Medicine-US Army. Susie Kochevar, RN, BSN, CEN, Health Care Coordinator for North Las Vegas Fire Dept.
Triage
Course reviews the components of triage, important assessment points, how to classify and tag victims, and the importance of regular training with multiple agencies, especially area hospitals. Features START triage system.
Featuring Mike Elliott, District Commander of Austin-Travis County EMS, Texas