Syncope is a symptom, not a diagnosis. Often it's a symptom of a benign etiology but it can indicate a life-threatening condition. So how do we distinguish between the two? We dive into the complex topic of syncope with guest Matt Mendes. We discuss the importance of recognizing syncope, differentiating it from seizures, and identifying who are the high-risk patients and why. The episode covers the guiding principles syncope- a good history, physical exam findings, and the ECG. It also delves into common presentations, risk stratifying strategies, and real-world cases to equip EMS providers with the knowledge needed to manage syncope calls effectively. 

 

00:00 Intro

01:07 Welcome to EMS Cast, host and guest introductions

04:51 Guiding Principles for Syncope Assessment

07:22 High-Risk Syncope Patients

09:14 Initial Approach to Syncope Patients

15:15 Syncope vs. Seizure

20:08 Physical Exam and EKG Importance

25:14 Identifying Arrhythmias in Syncope Patients

26:37 Understanding Wolf Parkinson White Disease

27:46 QT Prolongation and Its Implications

29:49 Left Ventricular Hypertrophy and Its Risks

31:28 Recognizing Brugada Pattern

32:02 Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Dysplasia

33:04 Bifascicular Block and Its Dangers

35:00 EKG Interpretation and Syncope Risk Stratification

39:53 Emergency Department Workups for Syncope

55:49 Case Studies and Memorable Syncope Calls

 

Resources

Gear We Like

Guest/Cast/Crew information-

Guest- Matt Mendes, EM doc, Resident didactics coordinator, former EMS Cast Co-Host

Hosts- Ross Orpet, Will Berry 

Catch up with us after the show

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