In this episode of the FlightBridgeED MDCAST Podcast, Dr. Michael Lauria and Dr. Elizabeth Garchar delve into a vital topic for EMS and critical care: managing preterm labor in transport. They tackle the complexities of diagnosing preterm labor, the nuances of patient risk factors, and the pillars of effective preterm care. Discover how understanding these principles can make a profound difference for both mother and baby, especially when timely, evidence-based intervention is crucial. This is an essential listen for any paramedic, nurse, or medical professional seeking to deepen their knowledge in obstetric critical care and improve their hands-on approach.

Listen on your preferred podcast platform or directly from our website at flightbridgeed.com/fbe-podcast. While you’re there, explore our award-winning courses crafted for your continuing education in critical care and emergency medicine.

Key Takeaways:

1. Recognize the four pillars of preterm labor management: transport to the appropriate facility, antibiotic administration, antenatal steroids, and magnesium for neuroprotection (before 32 weeks).
2. To prevent neonatal complications, maintain close monitoring during transport and prioritize fetal head control in the event of precipitous delivery.
3. Understanding preterm labor risk factors—such as infection, smoking, limited access to care, and history of preterm births—can help guide critical care decisions.
4. Tocolytic options like calcium channel blockers or beta sympathomimetics are helpful for delaying delivery short-term but require careful consideration of contraindications.
5. The preterm infant’s immediate needs at birth include delayed cord clamping and potential neonatal resuscitation, underscoring the importance of being prepared for rapid response.

FAST25 | May 19-21, 2025 | Lexington, KY

🔥 FAST25 is back—bigger, bolder, and hotter than ever! 🔥

This isn’t just another conference—a high-energy, immersive experience for pre-hospital and critical care transport pros. Expert-led sessions, hands-on workshops, and unfiltered discussions will take your practice to the next level.

🚀 New for 2025: The Creator Festival – Featuring “Burnt Ones,” a spicy take on Hot Ones, where top EMS creators tackle scorching hot wings while answering the most challenging questions in the industry. Expect live demos, interactive exhibits, and big-name influencers sharing their insight in a way you won’t find anywhere else.

Plus, a killer vendor experience, special guests, catered lunches, and after-hours events that make networking effortless and enjoyable. FAST25 is where it all happens.

📍 Central Bank Center | Lexington, KY
🏨 Hilton Lexington/Downtown (special rates available!)
🎟️ Tickets are limited—grab yours now: flightbridgeed.com/fast25