I would like to discuss “treating the loved ones” on the scene after the death of a patient. Topics to include determining death, notifying the family, calling the proper authorities, preserving the scene, etc.

In this lecture we are going to spend time dissecting all the different forms of shock we could encounter in the field to have a better understanding of the different factors contributing to different phases of shock, the physiology and the evolution of different shock states and how to correct them. While we often think of shock occurring in our trauma patients, ultimately that trauma patient needs a surgeon to fix the problem, but that patient also needs EMTs and Paramedics to effectively manage their shock states enroute to what they ultimately need: A cold table, bright lights and a trauma surgeon. So please join me as we dive into evidenced based research, cases and all the stages and phases of shock like we are all the New Kids on the Shock.

Basic overview of ALS, identify challenges of caring for a patient with ALS, special considerations of dealing with ALS patients

Transport and care refusals are touchy subjects for many providers. Agency culture and generational complacency have enabled and nurtured countless myths about refusals that cover up the dangers to patients and providers. In this session, providers will take an uncomfortable and holistic, true-life look at the reality of refusals to understand how and why to manage them to keep the promise of EMS.

We see trauma patients quite frequently and have to consider the Trauma Triad of death when on those calls and try to prevent those very things from happening, but have you ever noticed the shocking similarities between the Trauma Triad and those providers who are responding to them? We too can experience a similar “Trauma Triad” long after the call is closed and is worth noting that beyond the patient, there may be another in need of attention. The burdens are similar between the patient and the providers responding to the call, but how do we fix it? Join me as we talk about the trauma triad (and now diamond) of death and how it relates to the first responders who are also experiencing the trauma in a different capacity.

This interactive case-based discussion reviews how to recognize and manage difficult airways of critically ill and injured patients.  Airway assessment tools and positioning strategies are reviewed in detail.  A variety of advanced airway tools are thoroughly examined, including pros and cons of each.  Additionally, medications to aide in airway management are covered to safely administer during the stressful situations during difficult airway management.

It seems that technology has evolved faster than EMS’ ability (or willingness) to adapt to it. Nowhere is the divide more evident than where EMS and Social Media collide. In this carefully updated session, providers will take a close look at the Social Media mistakes that have and continue to haunt EMS providers nationwide. We will also learn and develop tools for harnessing the power of Social Media for the overall betterment of EMS. By the end, providers – and agencies – will see that Social Media is not a monster, but a tool that can be used to advance EMS in ways that were never before possible.

“OH &!@# It’s A Kid” is a deep dive into the provider’s ability to successfully care for the critical pediatric patient. I’ll be referencing Disney’s Inside Out as a guide to look at the challenges the providers feel while managing a critically ill and/or injured child. For the first time, it’s a presentation looking at what the provider overcomes within themselves, not the assessment or interventions of a critical pediatric patient. Normal vital signs, weight-based medication doses, anatomical differences, ectectera aren’t going to be reviewed here! We’re going to get uncomfortable and talk about feelings with the goal of creating a workable frame of mind to successfully care for the critical pediatric patient. You’ll first ask yourself, “who’s running my console” and then you’ll be deciding “who do I need to be running my console so I can rock this call”.

Since the dawn of EMS time, as much has changed, as has stayed the same. Policies, protocols, scope of practice, and inventory have all changed dramatically since the early years, but it seems that culture has stayed largely the same. Attitudes, approaches, and ideas about how EMS should be done are far more deeply rooted than the ever-changing list of skills and drugs. In this session, participants – old dogs and young dogs – will examine EMS culture through the prism of the law. We will take a close look at the differences between what providers do and have done and what the law expects them to do in 2024. Providers should come away with a refreshed perspective and enthusiasm to make positive changes.

This course, presented to hundreds of EMS professionals in the Lehigh Valley over the past 15 years, will review common MCI principles, lessons learned from prior incidents, and hands-on practice utilizing scenario-based training.

While the core audience for this program is EMS providers, others in healthcare and emergency services will benefit greatly. Integration between bystanders, on-site representatives, and emergency responders is key to successful MCI mitigation.

***Seating is limited to 30 participants on a first come first serve registration basis***

Instructors: Chris Greb and Chris Peischl