Loud & Clear: EMS Guiding Principles - Advanced Continuing Education for Paramedics, EMTs & Prehospital Care Providers

By Ross Orpet, Paramedic turned EMS PhysicianEducation

Loud & Clear: EMS Guiding Principles - Advanced Continuing Education for Paramedics, EMTs & Prehospital Care Providers episodes

November 20, 2024Life Over Limb: Field Amputation, Preparing for the Unthinkable
Dr. Avery McKenzie interviews Dr. Eric Adler, regional medical director for Flight for Life, about the challenging and rare procedure of field amputations. They discuss the importance of being prepared for the unexpected, the steps involved in developing a protocol for such emergencies, and the logistical challenges faced during the process. Dr. Adler shares insights from real-life cases and emphasizes the critical need for planning and knowing the resources available in urgent scenarios.

00:00 Emergency Field Amputation: A Real-Life Scenario
00:25 The Reality of Unlikely Medical Emergencies
02:04 Introducing Today's Episode and Guest
04:26 Dr. Eric Adler's Experience and Protocol Development
05:46 Indications and Procedures for Field Amputation
10:50 Challenges in Creating a Field Amputation Protocol
14:23 Final Thoughts and Preparedness

Resources
Website show notes link (picture of the kit and copy of the protocol): https://emspodcast.com/life-over-limb-field-amputation-preparing-for-the-unthinkable/
Other episodes you might like: Episode 31- You Were Taught Wrong, Traumas Not Algorithmic
Gear We Like
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Notepad for taking notes on calls - https://amzn.to/3Z1X21J
Sunglasses - https://frontline-optics.com/discount/EMSCAST15
Books we recommend -
The Dichotomy of Leadership - https://amzn.to/4fiCAjN
Extreme Ownership - https://amzn.to/3O1FWfa
Managing the Unexpected: Sustained Performance in a Complex World - https://amzn.to/3V7BwYf
Thinking Fast and Slow - https://amzn.to/4fiJG85
A Thousand Naked Strangers: A Paramedic's Wild Ride to the Edge and Back - https://amzn.to/3YJJrf2
Guest/Cast/Crew information-
Guest- Erik Adler
Host- Ross Orpet, Avery Mackenzie

Catch up with us after the show
Instagram- @emscast
Website- www.emspodcast.com

Interested in The Loud & Clear Fellowship? Book a free coaching call with us: emspodcast.com/free-coaching-call
American Burn Association / ABLS: Enter the ABLS giveaway by June 30, 2026; the winner will be selected July 1, 2026. Loud & Clear listeners also get 10% off ABLS Now through August 31, 2026. Details: https://bit.ly/aba-loud-clear
16 min
November 04, 2024The Untold Impact of EMS on Organ Donation: Transforming Tragedy into Hope
In this episode, we discuss the profound impact that one patient's organ donation can have on society. Even when not every patient gets to go home, the ability to donate organs can positively affect up to 80 people, multiplying our impact and service to the community. Guest Chris Meeks, a critical care flight paramedic and organ recovery coordinator discusses the ethical considerations and the surprising impact EMS has on the potential for organ donation, even in cases that appear to be 'lost causes'. Tune in to understand how your work in EMS may have more far-reaching positive effects than you realize.

00:00 Introduction: The Impact of EMS on Organ Donation
00:43 Ethical Considerations in Organ Donation
01:10 Current Research and EMS's Role
02:04 Guest Introduction: Chris Meeks
05:04 Ethical Dilemmas and Future Directions
08:25 Organ Donation Criteria and Processes
13:28 Conclusion: The Importance of EMS in Organ Donation

Guest/Cast/Crew information-
Guest- Chris Meeks, Critical Care Flight Paramedic, Organ Recovery Coordinator
Host- Ross Orpet, Will Berry
Catch up with us after the show
Instagram- @emscast
Twitter- @ems_cast
Website- www.emspodcast.com
Want to stay ahead of the top 1% in EMS and build real confidence in the field?
👉 Book a call to get personalized guidance, improve decision-making under pressure, and grow your skills as a paramedic: emspodcast.com/free-coaching-call
📰 Join our weekly newsletter for exclusive EMS insights, leadership strategies, real-life scenarios, and tools designed to help you stay sharp, confident, and ahead of the curve: https://loudandclear.kit.com/d45b012fae

American Burn Association / ABLS: Enter the ABLS giveaway by June 30, 2026; the winner will be selected July 1, 2026. Loud & Clear listeners also get 10% off ABLS Now through August 31, 2026. Details: https://bit.ly/aba-loud-clear
17 min
October 21, 2024Values-Driven Leadership Within A Just Culture- Chris Pfingsten from EMS 20/20
Creating lasting behavioral changes in the workplace by moving beyond consequence-based policies. Chris discusses the importance of aligning personal and company values, highlighting 'just culture' in EMS and its role in understanding motivations and systemic issues. The conversation covers leadership in EMS, focusing on the significance of fostering supportive relationships with staff and avoiding fear-based management. Additionally, Chris shares his journey from paramedic to Field Training Officer, offering advice on effective training and mutual support. This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone in the EMS field aiming to enhance performance, commitment, and team dynamics. Don't forget to check below for further resources on just culture and motivational learning.

Guest/Cast/Crew information-
Guest- Chris Pfingsten, Co-host of EMS 20/20
Host- Ross Orpet, Will Berry

Resources
Other episodes you might like
Ep. 72 From Errors to Excellence with Geoff Murphy, Master Your Medics
Books
Just Culture- https://amzn.to/4eOMN7w
Crucial Conversations- https://amzn.to/3BRBnRI
YouTube Videos-
Why do Errors Happen? How can we prevent them?
How can a system get organized for improvement?

Catch up with us after the show
Instagram- @emscast
Twitter- @ems_cast
Website- www.emspodcast.com
Want to stay ahead of the top 1% in EMS and build real confidence in the field?
👉 Book a call to get personalized guidance, improve decision-making under pressure, and grow your skills as a paramedic: emspodcast.com/free-coaching-call
📰 Join our weekly newsletter for exclusive EMS insights, leadership strategies, real-life scenarios, and tools designed to help you stay sharp, confident, and ahead of the curve: https://loudandclear.kit.com/d45b012fae

American Burn Association / ABLS: Enter the ABLS giveaway by June 30, 2026; the winner will be selected July 1, 2026. Loud & Clear listeners also get 10% off ABLS Now through August 31, 2026. Details: https://bit.ly/aba-loud-clear
18 min
October 07, 2024Are They Choking? Esophageal Foreign Body
We delve into the management of esophageal foreign body obstructions, a common yet often misunderstood medical emergency. We discuss the symptoms and causes of esophageal food impactions, sometimes referred to as 'Steakhouse Syndrome,' and differentiate it from tracheal obstructions. We explore the protocols, potential treatments, and if there's any rationale behind treatments such as glucagon administration. Join us as we also share real-life scenarios to better illustrate the challenges and solutions when dealing with such medical cases.
Resources and links
This episode was inspired by an article on EMSAirway.com- Friday Night Lights- Shift 9 Steak Night
EMScast15 - code for 15% off an awesome pair of sunglasses
Help Us By Filling Out Our Audience Survey
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Articles-
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy- Guidelines for ingested foreign bodies

Glucagon for Relief of Acute Esophageal Foreign Bodies and Food Impactions: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Efficacy of cola ingestion for oesophageal food bolus impaction: open label, multicentre, randomised controlled trial

Conservative management of oesophageal soft food bolus impaction

Esophageal Food Impaction: A Retrospective Chart Review
Food Bolus Impaction- Question and Answer Review

Guest/Cast/Crew information-
Host- Ross Orpet, Will Berry

Catch up with us after the show
Instagram- @emscast
Twitter- @ems_cast
Website- www.emspodcast.com
Want to stay ahead of the top 1% in EMS and build real confidence in the field?
👉 Book a call to get personalized guidance, improve decision-making under pressure, and grow your skills as a paramedic: emspodcast.com/free-coaching-call
📰 Join our weekly newsletter for exclusive EMS insights, leadership strategies, real-life scenarios, and tools designed to help you stay sharp, confident, and ahead of the curve: https://loudandclear.kit.com/d45b012fae

00:00 Introduction to Esophageal Foreign Bodies
00:43 Audience Survey and Sunglasses Giveaway
01:46 Interview with Contest Winner
06:11 A Choking Incident at Mile High Stadium
09:02 Discussion on Esophageal Obstructions
11:46 Life-Saving Story at Denver International Airport
13:28 A Life-Saving Outcome
14:11 The Choking Incident at the Tavern
14:57 Assessing the Patient's Condition
19:38 Understanding Esophageal Food Impaction
21:49 Treatment Options and Challenges
29:01 The Role of Endoscopy
37:45 Managing Esophageal Impactions in the Field
39:32 Final Thoughts
American Burn Association / ABLS: Enter the ABLS giveaway by June 30, 2026; the winner will be selected July 1, 2026. Loud & Clear listeners also get 10% off ABLS Now through August 31, 2026. Details: https://bit.ly/aba-loud-clear
40 min
September 23, 202410 Lessons From A Real Austere Rescue That Apply To You, No Matter Where You Work
Delve into a real-life rescue mission conducted by the U.S. Air Force Pararescue Jumpers (PJs) in the North Atlantic Ocean and learn ten crucial lessons for enhancing EMS practice. Dr. Michael Lauria shares these ten critical lessons from this challenging scenario that are essential for medical professionals working in any prehospital environment. From the importance of preparation and the power of a small team, to the significance of continuous learning and the dynamic nature of safety, these insights are invaluable for enhancing clinical practice. Tune in to learn how these lessons can be applied to improve how you approach the job.
EMScast15 - code for 15% off an awesome pair of sunglasses
Tell us about you and how we can make this show better
Medic Box - awesome medical gear shipped directly to your door
Guest/Cast/Crew information-
Guest- Dr. Mike Lauria
Host- Ross Orpet, Will Berry
Resources
Other episodes you might like
Third-party websites where you can learn more
Podcast announcements
Catch up with us after the show
Instagram- @emscast
Twitter- @ems_cast
Website- www.emspodcast.com
Want to stay ahead of the top 1% in EMS and build real confidence in the field?
👉 Book a call to get personalized guidance, improve decision-making under pressure, and grow your skills as a paramedic: emspodcast.com/free-coaching-call
📰 Join our weekly newsletter for exclusive EMS insights, leadership strategies, real-life scenarios, and tools designed to help you stay sharp, confident, and ahead of the curve: https://loudandclear.kit.com/d45b012fae
American Burn Association / ABLS: Enter the ABLS giveaway by June 30, 2026; the winner will be selected July 1, 2026. Loud & Clear listeners also get 10% off ABLS Now through August 31, 2026. Details: https://bit.ly/aba-loud-clear
33 min
September 16, 2024 Bonus: A Better BVM? How I Built This EMS Cast Style- A Crazy Story About an Emergency Nurses Invention and Battle to Save Lives and Prevent Harm.
In this special bonus episode of EMS Cast, we delve into the story of Bobby Sue McCollum, an emergency nurse turned inventor. Learn about the critical issue of over ventilation in emergency medicine, the innovative VT Select device designed to address this problem, and the crazy inspiring journey of its creation. With discussions on the challenges of finding the optimal ventilation rates and volumes, the episode balances medical data and personal narrative. Bobby Sue shares the highs and lows of her entrepreneurial path, from initial prototype development to eventual licensing, offering valuable insights for aspiring inventors in the medical field.

Resources Mentioned in the Show-
VT Select Bag Valve Mask
A Review of Ventilation in OHCA
Pediatric BVM Delivers More Ideal Volumes in Mannequins
Small BVMs Lead to Decreased Survival in a Small Real World Study
00:00 The Problem with Overventilation
00:53 Introduction to the VT Select Device
02:01 Meet the Inventor: Bobby Sue McCollum
05:06 The Journey of Invention
12:10 How the VT Select Works
14:04 Challenges and Triumphs
27:37 Advice for Aspiring Inventors
31:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Resources:
Want to stay ahead of the top 1% in EMS and build real confidence in the field?
👉 Book a call to get personalized guidance, improve decision-making under pressure, and grow your skills as a paramedic: emspodcast.com/free-coaching-call
📰 Join our weekly newsletter for exclusive EMS insights, leadership strategies, real-life scenarios, and tools designed to help you stay sharp, confident, and ahead of the curve: https://loudandclear.kit.com/d45b012fae
American Burn Association / ABLS: Enter the ABLS giveaway by June 30, 2026; the winner will be selected July 1, 2026. Loud & Clear listeners also get 10% off ABLS Now through August 31, 2026. Details: https://bit.ly/aba-loud-clear
33 min
September 09, 2024The Critical Four Minutes: AMAX4 framework for Anaphylaxis
Explore anaphylaxis care from the basics to the critical approach to managing severe anaphylaxis with Bruce Hoffman, FlightBridge ED senior educator. Find out what it means to be aggressive with anaphylaxis care explained through the AMAX4 framework. Learn how the framework can help reverse anaphylactic shock and prevent catastrophic outcomes. Hear the impactful story behind the framework and gain insight into the most effective practices for treating unresponsive anaphylactic and asthmatic patients. Special thanks to the McKenzie family for their mission-driven educational work.
Resource links
Episode Blog Post / Show Notes
AMAX4 website
Anaphylaxis deep dive
Updated Anaphylaxis Definition
EMScast15 - code for 15% off an awesome pair of sunglasses
Help us learn how to make this show better for you
Medic Box - awesome medical gear shipped directly to your door
Guest/Cast/Crew information-
Guest- Bruce Hoffman- Goodwin University Program Director and Assistant Professor, FlightBridgeED senior educator, Bay State Health Critical Care RN and Paramedic
Host- Ross Orpet, Will Berry
Catch up with us after the show
Instagram- @emscast
Twitter- @ems_cast
Website- www.emspodcast.com
Want to stay ahead of the top 1% in EMS and build real confidence in the field?
👉 Book a call to get personalized guidance, improve decision-making under pressure, and grow your skills as a paramedic: emspodcast.com/free-coaching-call
📰 Join our weekly newsletter for exclusive EMS insights, leadership strategies, real-life scenarios, and tools designed to help you stay sharp, confident, and ahead of the curve: https://loudandclear.kit.com/d45b012fae
American Burn Association / ABLS: Enter the ABLS giveaway by June 30, 2026; the winner will be selected July 1, 2026. Loud & Clear listeners also get 10% off ABLS Now through August 31, 2026. Details: https://bit.ly/aba-loud-clear
31 min
August 26, 2024From Errors to Excellence: Master Your Medics Geoff Murphy on the role of mistakes in EMS education
The Power of Embracing Mistakes- Special guest Geoff Murphy, founder of Master Your Medics, shares how acknowledging and learning from mistakes can save lives in the field of prehospital medicine. Recorded at the Fast 24 conference, this episode emphasizes the importance of cultivating a culture of safety, vulnerability, and continuous learning within EMS teams. Discover actionable strategies to foster a psychologically safe environment where mistakes are openly discussed and used as invaluable learning tools to enhance professional development and patient care. This insightful discussion is a must-watch for anyone looking to elevate their skills and create a high-performing EMS team.
EMScast15 - code for 15% off an awesome pair of sunglasses
Enter to Win a FREE Pair of Frontline Optics Sunglasses
Medic Box - awesome medical gear shipped directly to your door
Guest/Cast/Crew information-
Guest- Geoff Murphy, founder of Master Your Medics
Host- Ross Orpet, Will Berry

Resources
Ep. 31 You Were Taught Wrong, Traumas Not Algorithmic
MasterYourMedics.com
Catch up with us after the show
Instagram- @emscast
Twitter- @ems_cast
Website- www.emspodcast.com
00:00 Introduction: The Power of Discussing Mistakes
00:38 Welcome to EMS Cast
00:52 Today's Topic: How Mistakes Can Save Lives
01:16 Embracing Failure: Insights from Jeff Murphy
01:37 Creating a Culture of Safety and Vulnerability
06:29 The Fearless Organization: High vs. Low Performing Teams
11:49 Personal Stories: Learning from Mistakes
19:15 Master Your Medics: The Journey and Vision
23:43 Conclusion: The Path to Mastery
Resources:
Want to stay ahead of the top 1% in EMS and build real confidence in the field?
👉 Book a call to get personalized guidance, improve decision-making under pressure, and grow your skills as a paramedic: emspodcast.com/free-coaching-call
📰 Join our weekly newsletter for exclusive EMS insights, leadership strategies, real-life scenarios, and tools designed to help you stay sharp, confident, and ahead of the curve: https://loudandclear.kit.com/d45b012fae

American Burn Association / ABLS: Enter the ABLS giveaway by June 30, 2026; the winner will be selected July 1, 2026. Loud & Clear listeners also get 10% off ABLS Now through August 31, 2026. Details: https://bit.ly/aba-loud-clear
26 min
August 12, 2024Poisons of the Sea: Not Just a Coastal Problem
Think you only need to worry about toxicities that exist in the sea if you live by an ocean? Think again. No matter where you are fish may be on the menu, or there may be a zoo nearby, or a marine enthusiast with an elaborate home aquarium. These toxicities can be seen in Colorado. They can be in Australia or in the US. No matter where you are you have the potential to see one or many of these. From scombroid poisoning to puffer fish, irukandji syndrome, jellyfish, and sea snakes- tune in to this week's episode to learn all about the various poisons that come from the sea with toxicologist Nik Matsler.
Website show notes link
EMScast15 - code for 15% off an awesome pair of sunglasses
Enter to Win a FREE Pair of Frontline Optics Sunglasses
Medic Box - awesome medical gear shipped directly to your door
Guest/Cast/Crew information-
Guest- Dr. Nik Matsler
Host- Dr. Ross Orpet and Critical Care Paramedic Will Berry
Resources
Other episodes you might like
Episode 26: Snake Bites
Episode 25: Cocaine Overdose
Third-party websites where you can learn more
Marine Envenomations Journal Article
5 Step Approach to Marine Envenomations
Catch up with us after the show
Instagram- @emscast
Twitter- @ems_cast
Website- www.emspodcast.com
Want to stay ahead of the top 1% in EMS and build real confidence in the field?
👉 Book a call to get personalized guidance, improve decision-making under pressure, and grow your skills as a paramedic: emspodcast.com/free-coaching-call
📰 Join our weekly newsletter for exclusive EMS insights, leadership strategies, real-life scenarios, and tools designed to help you stay sharp, confident, and ahead of the curve: https://loudandclear.kit.com/d45b012fae

American Burn Association / ABLS: Enter the ABLS giveaway by June 30, 2026; the winner will be selected July 1, 2026. Loud & Clear listeners also get 10% off ABLS Now through August 31, 2026. Details: https://bit.ly/aba-loud-clear
1 hr 5 min
July 29, 2024 The Critically Sick Runner: Unraveling the Mystery at an Ultra-endurance Event with Dr. Whitney Barrett
Dr. Whitney Barrett, the Medical Director of the Highlonsome 100 mile ultra endurance race, discusses the critical considerations for EMS providers when encountering sick runners during endurance events. Insights on managing ultra-endurance athletes, focusing on conditions such as hyponatremia, dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and the unique challenges presented by high-altitude races. Learn about effective rehydration and cooling strategies, and the critical role of context in diagnosing and treating affected runners.

EMScast15 for 15% Off Frontline Optics Sunglasses
Enter to Win a FREE Pair of Frontline Optics Sunglasses
Blog Post and Critical Runner Algorithm- The Critical Care of the Sick Runner

00:00 Introduction and Hosts
00:39 Conference Recap
01:03 Guest Introduction: Dr. Whitney Barrett
01:29 Understanding the Sick Runner
02:29 Medical Considerations for Ultra Marathons
08:15 Common Issues in Ultra Runners
12:45 Responding to Sick Runners
19:42 Fluid Management and Hyponatremia
35:10 Handling Hyperthermia and Hypothermia
44:05 Dealing with Collapsed Runners
53:36 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

Resources:
Want to stay ahead of the top 1% in EMS and build real confidence in the field?
👉 Book a call to get personalized guidance, improve decision-making under pressure, and grow your skills as a paramedic: emspodcast.com/free-coaching-call
📰 Join our weekly newsletter for exclusive EMS insights, leadership strategies, real-life scenarios, and tools designed to help you stay sharp, confident, and ahead of the curve: https://loudandclear.kit.com/d45b012fae
American Burn Association / ABLS: Enter the ABLS giveaway by June 30, 2026; the winner will be selected July 1, 2026. Loud & Clear listeners also get 10% off ABLS Now through August 31, 2026. Details: https://bit.ly/aba-loud-clear
55 min

About Loud & Clear: EMS Guiding Principles - Advanced Continuing Education for Paramedics, EMTs & Prehospital Care Providers

From the publisher's feed

Paramedic training is over, you’re in the front seat now. Whether day 1 or day 1,000 you can’t shake the fear you’re underprepared. You were taught to systematically decide if A... do B. But what if…