Understanding the toxidromes provides you with vital diagnostic tools in high-stakes environments. In this episode, we break down the clinical patterns that define toxidromes- the clusters of signs and symptoms that point to poisoning or overdose. We explore the hallmark features of the most common toxidromes, highlight common pitfalls in recognition, and explain how early pattern recognition changes patient outcomes. But not all symptoms are what they seem. In this episode, we peel back the layers of toxidromes to show how overlapping signs can mislead even experienced providers. From pinpoint pupils to altered mental status, we examine which clues you can trust and which demand a deeper look. Packed with real-world relevance, this discussion will sharpen your clinical instincts and prepare you for the next toxicological mystery.

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Catch up with us after the show

Melody Bishop helps us simplify the physiology of bag-valve-mask (BVM) techniques. This episode highlights common mistakes like insufficient exhalation time, discusses driving pressure, and explains the importance of proper technique to avoid lung injury. We also explore the nuances of endotracheal tube size, laminar flow, and the transition from BVM to mechanical ventilation. From FASTCAN in Calgary this episode will enhance your understanding and skills in respiratory care.

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Guest- Melody Bishop, RRT, CCAA

Host- Ross Orpet, Will Berry 

Catch up with us after the show

Dr. Jeff Jarvis, EMS medical director and host of the EMS Lighthouse Project, delves into the latest emerging EMS literature and guidelines from the National Association of EMS Physicians. We explore best practices for blood use in trauma, up-to-date trauma arrest recommendations, postpartum hemorrhage, and severe hypertension in pregnancy. Additionally, we discuss recent studies on field intubation times, pre-hospital treatment of AFib with RVR, and pre-treating with calcium before diltiazem for patients in AFib. This episode is packed with crucial, evidence-based information for best practices in the prehospital setting. Don't miss out!

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What's the real difference between paramedics who stay calm under pressure and those who panic when everything goes wrong? It's the ability to already know what comes next. In this episode we explore the power of consistency and how one simple tool, often dismissed, can improve patient care and outcomes. Geoff Murphy, founder of Master Medics, sat down with us onsite at FAST25 to discuss how checklists can not only save lives but allow you to remain confident in knowing what is next on scene. Not to mention they're a great training tool as well.

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Were have we been? Well, the truth is, we've been incredibly busy working on some really exciting projects.

If you're interested in joining the founding members cohort of  the Paramedic Confidence Builder Course reach out to me at [email protected] before August 15th.

We launched a research project diving deep into understanding exactly what newer paramedics struggle with as they make that transition from school into the real world of EMS.

We all remember that feeling - you graduate paramedic school, you pass your registry, you get your first job, and then... reality hits. The textbook scenarios suddenly become real patients with real families, real emergencies, and real consequences and it turns out none of those patients read the textbook. There's this gap between what you learned in class and what you need to know to be truly confident and effective on the streets.

We've been talking to new paramedics, experienced providers, educators, and EMS leaders to really understand where those gaps are. What are the specific challenges? What makes the difference between a new paramedic who struggles and one who thrives? This research has been fascinating, and it's going to inform not just the educational episodes we create going forward, but it's also led us to our next project.

This is what we're most excited about - we've developed what we're calling right now the Paramedic Confidence Builder Course.

This isn't just another continuing education program. This isn’t just a set of pre-recorded lectures. This is about taking everything we've learned from our research and creating a comprehensive program to help bridge that gap between school and street confidence.

I'm talking about mentorship, coaching, practical scenarios, decision-making frameworks, and most importantly - building the kind of unshakeable confidence that lets you walk into any call knowing you've got the tools and mindset to handle whatever comes your way.

We've got a fantastic group of paramedics signed up for our founding members cohort, and we're about to launch in one week. If this sounds like something that might be a good fit for you, we do have a very short window left and only a few spots remaining in this founding cohort, but f you're interested, send me an email before August 15th at [email protected] and we can chat about whether the course might be right for you.

The third project we've been working on is the ability to get continuing education credits for listening to our episodes.

We're currently beta testing this system, and I'm optimistic that we'll have it ready to launch by the end of the year. 

So that's what we've been up to. 

The good news is we're back on track. We hope to have our next regular episode released next week, so tune in for some more of that high-level continuing education you've come to expect from us here at Loud and Clear.

Thank you again for being such an incredible community. Your support, your feedback, your engagement - it all matters. It's what drives us to keep pushing forward and finding new ways to serve you better.

Until next time, stay safe out there, keep learning, and remember - every call, no matter how big or small, is an opportunity to make a difference.

Renowned airway enthusiast, Dr. Rich Levitan, on mastering airway management. Explore his approach to simplifying complex tasks into achievable and believable steps. Every complexity incurs a debt to crisis performance, instead, learn how we can decrease stress and engineer success in crisis performance.

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A field trainer administers a non-indicated medication while two trainees watch in silence. Sound familiar?

In this eye-opening episode, we dive deep into how the aviation industry transformed from a punitive, hierarchical culture to one where crews actively prevent catastrophic errors—and how YOU can apply these same principles on your next EMS shift.

Our guest, Glen, a commercial airline pilot and aviation safety expert, shares how the aviation industry has revolutionized itself through such methodologies as just culture, crew resource management, and error prevention tools like the inquiry, advocacy, assertiveness model. We explore how these principles can be effectively applied in our EMS world to improve safety and performance. By the end of this episode, you'll walk away with practical tactics to implement on your next shift, ensuring you and your crew can handle high-stress situations with confidence and competence.

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