NOTICE: Please refer to Michigan.gov for a current copy of this document

MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH

DIVISION OF EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES

3423 N. LOGAN, P.O. BOX 30195

LANSING, MI 48909

REQUIREMENTS:

SPECIALIST EDUCATION PROGRAM

INITIAL

and

REFRESHER

Specialist programs must be based on this criteria and approved by the Michigan Department of Public Health.

Individuals completing non-approved programs shall be ineligible for licensure.

J-328

6/85, Revised 7/91, 7/95 Authority: Act 368, P.A. 1978 as amended

PREFACE

I. Application for Education Program Approval

Education programs must be formally approved by the Michigan Department of

Public Health (MDPH) prior to initiation of a course. Each education program

must have a sponsor, as defined in the administrative rules.

The education program sponsor, in conjunction with the physician director

and/or the Instructor-Coordinator, shall be responsible for the following:

A. Curriculum development, including clinical coordination.

B. Ensure that clinical contracts are current and on file, and that quality

assurance measures are in place, including patient confidentiality.

C. Evaluation and selection of instructors.

D. Student evaluation (for basic literacy and math skills, at a minimum) for

admission into the program.

E. Clear and detailed requirements for one to meet in order to complete the

program successfully. These are to include grievance policies, P.A. 179

of 1990, rules and regulations, and the instructional objectives.

F. Maintain and assure the availability of adequate and functioning

equipment, including training aids, classrooms, and a resource library.

G. Ensure that practical examinations maintain an adequate student to

instructor ratio, to allow for close observation of student activities, and are

in compliance with the task analyses, which is part of this document.

H. Periodically review student performance, and assist students, as

appropriate.

I. Maintain student performance records, for a minimum of 5 years. At a

minimum, performance records must include terminal event evaluation

tools.

J. Provide MDPH, within 30 calendar days of the completion of a course

(classroom and clinical sections), the names of students who have

successfully completed the education program course.

K. Assuring student competency of knowledge and skills at the EMT level.

L. Issue each graduate proof of successful course completion.

General Provisions

Each education program course shall:

A. Utilize clearly stated behavioral objectives and performance criteria for

the didactic, practical, and clinical activities.

B. Provide clinical training in a hospital and a limited advanced, or advanced

life support agency. Each clinical site shall be capable of meeting the

clinical educational objectives developed by the Instructor-Coordinator.

Students who complete an unapproved program course will not be eligible for

licensure.

An education program approval shall remain in effect unless otherwise denied or

revoked by the department as prescribed in the administrative rules. If a program

sponsor does not offer a course for three consecutive years, the sponsor will

have to submit an initial application for program approval.

Course Approval Requirements

The application for Approval to Conduct an Education Program (J-135), must be

completed with the assistance of an Emergency Medical Services Instructor-

Coordinator (EMS I-C). Required documentation must be included and

submitted to the appropriate Regional Coordinator at least sixty (60) days prior

to the first class session. Following review, the Regional Coordinator will

resolve with the program sponsor (it's designee) any issues which may arise

concerning the application. Programs meeting established criteria are submitted

to MDPH by the Regional Coordinator for approval action.

The Education Program Sponsor (or it's designee) will be formally notified by the

department, or it's designee, of approval or disapproval. Program approval

affords the sponsor authorization to conduct an education program at that level,

and approval to conduct the first course.

Once a course has been approved, the EMS I-C is responsible to provide each

student with, or make available for their review and study, the following

information:

A. A copy of the MDPH course approval

B. Specialist program objectives

C. A copy of the current EMS legislation; P.A. 179 of 1990 and

administrative rules

D. The requirements which must be achieved to successfully complete the

course shall be in writing, and provided to each student.

The education program sponsor is responsible for notifying the Regional

Coordinator of any modifications to their program schedule on the Addendum for

Approval to Conduct an Education Program (J-135A). As Regional Coordinators

conduct periodic on-site visits to evaluate courses, any changes to an approved

education program must be reported.

Subsequent Course(s) Requirements

An education program sponsor may provide subsequent courses at any time

following initial approval, by submitting an Addendum for Approval to Conduct an

Education Program (J-135A). This form is to be completed with assistance of an

I-C and submitted with a revised course schedule and a listing of the current

clinical contracts to the appropriate Regional Coordinator at least thirty (30)

days prior to the first class session. Programs which continue to meet minimum

criteria shall be submitted to MDPH by the Regional Coordinator for approval

action.

II. Program Admission Prerequisites

The minimum requirements for admission to a Specialist course is successful

completion of an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) course. However,

individuals wishing to participate in the Specialist examination for licensure must

provide proof of current or past Michigan licensure at the EMT level. Education

program sponsors are expected to establish written admission policies and have

them available for prospective students.

All eligible candidates for licensure must be at least 18 years of age, at the time

of application to MDPH.

III. Program Staff

Emergency Medical Services Instructor-Coordinator (EMS I-C)

The I-C for the program must be licensed by MDPH and possess dual licensure

as a Specialist or Paramedic. The I-C is the liaison between the class,

instructional staff, program sponsor, physician director and MDPH or it's

designee. In concert with the education program sponsor, the I-C is responsible

for completing the application(s) for program approval and providing any

supportive documentation required by the department.

Physician Director

Each education program must have a physician director (PD), who possesses

current licensure in accordance with department rules. Responsibilities of the

PD include provision of medical expertise and assurance that current standards

of emergency care are being presented in each course. Further responsibilities

are outlined in the administrative rules.

Instructors

Course instructors are to be selected by the I-C and PD. Each instructor shall

possess expertise and background in the topic area(s) which they address.

Instructors are to be provided with the appropriate lesson outline and objectives

in advance of the presentation, and are to be thoroughly versed on the content

and limitations of the topic they are to present. The Instructor-Coordinator and

program sponsor are responsible to assure all program requirements are met.

IV. Licensure Examination

Students who successfully complete an approved course are eligible to

participate in the examination for licensure, provided that they are in compliance

with the current statute and administrative rules.

Following course completion, the I-C must submit to the department a list of the

names of the students who successfully completed the course. This information

must be submitted on the Notification of Students Completing an Education

Program Course form (J-122). This form must be signed by the I-C. I-Cs may

expedite the licensure process by including with this form, completed student

examination/licensure applications, the appropriate supportive documentation

outlined in the application, and the respective fees. Those students who wish to

submit their application directly to the department must include a copy of their

course completion certificate along with the aforementioned documents.

Only those students whose completed examination/licensure applications have

been received and approved by the department on or before the first working

day of the month that they wish to take the examination will be scheduled for

examination during that month. Each I-C shall contact the appropriate Regional

Coordinator to arrange for the licensure examination. Approximately two weeks

prior to the examination, the Regional Coordinator will contact, by mail, each

applicant with the examination date, time and place, unless specific

arrangements have been made between the I-C and the Regional Coordinator.

Questions regarding these requirements should be directed to your Regional

Coordinator.

V. Course Length and Organization

The initial course must comprise a minimum of 100 clock hours. This includes

didactic presentations, practical demonstrations, skills practice and clinical

experience. The sequence in which lessons are presented is left to the

discretion of the I-C. It is expected, however, that Topic 1 (Introduction,

Roles/Responsibilities of the Specialist, Medical/Legal Considerations, EMS

Systems Operations) will be presented first. The student is responsible for all

information in the current EMT Objectives.

VI. Lesson Outlines and Objective Format

The information included, in conjunction with the EMT objectives, is required in

order to meet the established educational objectives for a Specialist education

program. I-Cs and other instructors shall use this minimum required material in

their education programs, as the licensure examination is based on these

objectives.

Note: The enclosed material is a supplement to the EMT Lesson Outline

and Objectives and should not be used without them.

Text

The choice of text and/or handout material is left to the discretion of the program

sponsor and I-C.

To allow flexibility in choosing a preferred text, program objectives were

developed to ensure consistent minimum education standards, in conjunction

with the educational objectives for the EMT, and are to serve as the foundation

for course development. The following have been utilized in the development of

the educational objectives:

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation: American Heart Association

American Red Cross

Pediatrics: Pediatric Emergency Management

Curriculum- MDPH/EMS-C Project

Trauma: Basic Trauma Life Support/Advanced -

Brady

Pre-Hospital Trauma Life Support -

Mosby

Other Specialist Topics: Advanced Emergency Care for

Paramedic Practice - Lippincott

Emergency Care in the Streets

Fourth Edition - Little, Brown

Paramedic Emergency Care

Second Edition - Brady

Mosby's Paramedic Textbook - Mosby

Task Analysis:

The skills that the Specialist will minimally be able to perform are broken down

into an abbreviated task analysis format for the instructor and student. The

instructor may modify the format as needed for practice and testing purposes.

The skills are identified in this manner instead of a psychomotor objective

format. The student is responsible for all EMT skills as well as specific

advanced level skills. The specific advanced level skills (from the

Paramedic Objectives) are included in this curriculum for convenience in

duplication of this document.

VII. Curriculum Format

The Specialist Objectives include specific topic areas that are a review of the

EMT level topics or are new material from the Paramedic curriculum. The

instructor is responsible to identify for the student that all patients should have

consideration for vascular access, fluid volume management and advanced

airway management, as appropriate. Objectives, specific for Specialist level

practice, have not been written for all topic areas to illustrate that point.

Topic Format

See Example Page Following

#1 Title:

Each topic is titled listing the major subjects included in the topic. The first page

of each topic includes the publishing date. As topics are updated, a new date for

the topic will be posted in the upper right corner. The page numbers at the

bottom of each page include the topic number and page number within the topic.

#2 Opening Statement:

Each topic has an opening statement that is similar. This statement identifies the

expected performance of the student. Multiple performance verbs are used

since the student will have their performance evaluated at many different

learning levels.

#3 Related Information:

Each topic identifies what related topic areas and task analysis should be

referenced when covering that topic.

#4 Definitions:

New terms are defined at the beginning of the topic. The exception is when a

term is defined within an objective statement, if it is more appropriate within the

flow of the outlined material.

#5 Outline and Objectives:

The topic is outlined with subject headings identified by bold print. Most often

the topic heading is followed by objective statements. These objectives are

numbered by the topic number followed by the objective number.

#6 Outline Only

When a outlined subject heading is given with no objective statements following,

it indicates the objective information is covered in the EMT Lesson Outlines and

Objectives, or elsewhere in the Specialist document.

EXAMPLE TOPIC PAGE ONE 7/1/95

#1 Specialist 6: FLUIDS AND ELECTROLYTES,IV THERAPY, SHOCK

#2 LESSON OUTLINE AND PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES:

According to Specialist lecture presentations, assigned readings, practical lab and

clinical assignments, the student will be able to state, describe, choose,

demonstrate, analyze, prescribe, evaluate, etc., the following, including information

addressed in:

#3 EMT Objectives: IV Maintenance, Shock

Anatomy and Physiology

Patient Assessment

EMT Task Analysis: PASG: Application/ Inflation

Paramedic Task Analysis: Airway Management, Oxygen Therapy, Ventilation

Drug and Fluid Volume Calculations

Peripheral Intravenous Lines

#4 Definitions:

To meet the objectives of this part, each student must be able to define and understand

related terminology. The student is responsible for all EMT terminology in related sections.

The following terms are not intended to be all-inclusive.

1. Anion: An ion with a negative charge.

2. Cation: An ion with a positive charge.

OUTLINE AND OBJECTIVES

#5 I. Fluids and Electrolytes

A. Water Distribution

6.1 The two (2) compartments of total body water (TBW) are:

a. Intracellular fluid

b. Extracellular fluid

#6 B. Movement of Water, Solutes

1. Osmosis

2. Diffusion

6-1

SPECIALIST EDUCATION PROGRAM

TOPIC AREAS

TOPIC TITLE REQUIRED

MINIMUM HOURS

1 INTRODUCTION, ROLES/RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE SPECIALIST, 2

MEDICAL/LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS, EMS SYSTEMS OPERATIONS

2 TELEMETRY/ COMMUNICATIONS

2

3 PATIENT ASSESSMENT

4 TRIAGE 10

5 RESPIRATORY EMERGENCIES, CHEST INJURIES

ACID-BASE BALANCE

AIRWAY MANAGEMENT, OXYGEN THERAPY 24

6 FLUIDS AND ELECTROLYTES, IV THERAPY, SHOCK

20

7 INTRODUCTION TO PHARMACOLOGY

2

8 CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM

2

9 CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM

10 OTHER TRAUMATIC INJURIES:

BLEEDING & SOFT TISSUE INJURIES, 2

MUSCULOSKELETAL INJURIES,

FACIAL INJURIES, ABDOMINAL INJURIES, BURNS

11 ACUTE ABDOMEN

12 DIABETES 2

13 COMMUNICABLE DISEASES

0

14 BEHAVIORAL EMERGENCIES

0

15 POISONS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE 0

16 THE GERIATRIC PATIENT

1

17 OBSTETRICAL/ GYNECOLOGICAL EMERGENCIES

0

18 PEDIATRICS

2

19 ENVIRONMENTAL EMERGENCIES

1

20 HAZARDOUS MATERIALS

0

21 STRESS MANAGEMENT IN EMS

0

MINIMUM REQUIRED TOTAL CLASSROOM HOURS =

70

CLINICAL HOURS =

30

______

MINIMUM TOTAL REQUIRED PROGRAM HOURS =

100

NOTE: Many topics overlap and hours may be distributed over various lecture and

practical sessions. Time for comprehensive final student evaluation is not included in

total required program hours. It is mandatory to evaluate student performance

throughout the course, including comprehensive final didactic and practical

examinations.

All Specialist programs must have the minimum required 70 classroom hours

and 30 additional clinical hours. The minimum total required program hours, to

receive course approval, are 100 hours.

At least 30 of the 70 classroom hours is to be used for introduction and practice

of skills.

Specialist CLINICAL OBJECTIVES

At a minimum, the Specialist student shall complete 30 hours of clinical experience. The clinical

experience shall include the Emergency Department (minimum 8 hours) and Limited Advanced or

Advanced Life Support Vehicle (minimum 8 hours) rotations. Although other clinical areas, such as

Operating Room, Intensive Care Unit, Phlebotomy Team, Intravenous Team, Geriatrics, Pediatrics,

Labor and Delivery, Psychiatric Unit,and Respiratory Therapy are desirable and strongly

encouraged, they may not be practical in some medical facilities.

The Instructor-Coordinator should develop a list of clinical objectives to be demonstrated, observed

or discussed by the Specialist student during this portion of the program. These objectives should

be specific to the clinical area. Minimum objectives for clinical rotations in the Emergency

Department and Limited Advanced or Advanced Life Support Unit are listed below. These are a

supplement to the clinical objectives in the EMT curriculum.

Upon completion of the clinical section of the education program, the Specialist student will have

demonstrated, observed, or discussed:

1. The appropriate method for maintaining a patent airway, including esophageal obturation,

endotracheal intubation and esophageal double lumen airway.

2. The proper technique for starting an IV, maintaining patency and rate, and discontinuing the

IV, while maintaining sterile technique.

11

SPECIALIST REFRESHER PROGRAM

TOPIC AREAS

TOPIC TITLE REQUIRED

MINIMUM HOURS

1 INTRODUCTION, ROLES/RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE SPECIALIST, 1

MEDICAL/LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS,

EMS SYSTEMS OPERATIONS

2 TELEMETRY/ COMMUNICATIONS 1

3 PATIENT ASSESSMENT

4 TRIAGE 6

5 RESPIRATORY EMERGENCIES, CHEST INJURIES

ACID-BASE BALANCE,

AIRWAY MANAGEMENT, OXYGEN THERAPY 15

6 FLUIDS AND ELECTROLYTES, IV THERAPY, SHOCK 11

7 INTRODUCTION TO PHARMACOLOGY

1

8 CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM 1

9 CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM

10 OTHER TRAUMATIC INJURIES:

BLEEDING & SOFT TISSUE INJURIES, 1

MUSCULOSKELETAL INJURIES,

FACIAL INJURIES, ABDOMINAL INJURIES, BURNS

11 ACUTE ABDOMEN

12 DIABETES 1

13 COMMUNICABLE DISEASES Opt

14 BEHAVIORAL EMERGENCIES Opt

15 POISONS, SUBSTANCE ABUSE Opt

12

16 THE GERIATRIC PATIENT 1

17 OBSTETRICAL/ GYNECOLOGICAL EMERGENCIES Opt

18 PEDIATRICS 1

19 ENVIRONMENTAL EMERGENCIES 1

20 HAZARDOUS MATERIALS Opt

21 STRESS MANAGEMENT IN EMS Opt

MINIMUM REQUIRED TOTAL CLASSROOM HOURS = 44*

CLINICAL HOURS = Opt

* Includes 41 hours from required topic areas minimally, and 3 hours from optional topic areas.

Those optional topic areas not covered in the Initial Specialist curriculum would utilize the EMT

Objectives for review purposes. Time for in-class testing and final testing are not included in the

minimum required hours.

Specialist 1: INTRODUCTION 7/1/95

ROLES/RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE SPECIALIST

MEDICAL/LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS

EMS SYSTEMS OPERATIONS

LESSON OUTLINE AND PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES:

According to Specialist lecture presentations, assigned readings, practical lab

and clinical assignments, the student will be able to state, describe, choose,

demonstrate, analyze, prescribe, evaluate, etc., the following, including

information addressed in:

EMT Objectives: Introduction

Roles/Responsibilities of the EMT

Medical Legal Considerations

EMS Systems Operations

OUTLINE AND OBJECTIVES

I. Introduction and Orientation

A. Course Administration

1. Course Format

2. Policies and Procedures

3. Student Requirements

4. MDPH Performance Objectives

II. Roles and Responsibilities

A. Roles

B. Responsibilities

III. Medical/Legal Considerations

B. Legal/Documentation Considerations

C. Current Michigan Statutes that Apply to EMS

D. Michigan Continuing Education Requirements for Relicensure

IV. EMS Systems Operations

A. Components

B. Systems Operation Under Medical Control Authority

Specialist 2: TELEMETRY/COMMUNICATIONS 7/1/95

LESSON OUTLINE AND PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES:

According to Specialist lecture presentations, assigned readings, practical lab

and clinical assignments, the student will be able to state, describe, choose,

demonstrate, analyze, prescribe, evaluate, etc., the following, including

information addressed in:

EMT Objectives: Communications

OUTLINE AND OBJECTIVES

I. Communications

A. Medcom

B. Documentation

C. Interpersonal Communication

1. Patient (Psychological and Emotional Support)

2. Family and Friends (Psychological and Emotional Support)

3. Other Medical Personnel

Specialist 3: PATIENT ASSESSMENT 7/1/95

LESSON OUTLINE AND PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES:

According to Specialist lecture presentations, assigned readings, practical lab

and clinical assignments, the student will be able to state, describe, choose,

demonstrate, analyze, prescribe, evaluate, etc., the following, including

information addressed in:

EMT Objectives: Anatomy and Physiology

Patient Assessment

EMT Task Analysis: All Assessment Skills

Patient Management-Trauma Scenario

Patient Management-Medical Scenario

Specialist Objectives: Fluids, IV Therapy, Shock

Respiratory Emergencies

Paramedic Task Analysis: Airway Management, Oxygen Therapy,

Ventilation

Drug and Fluid Volume Calculations

Intraosseous Infusion

IV Discontinuation

Peripheral Intravenous Lines

OUTLINE AND OBJECTIVES

I. Patient Assessment

A. Review Dispatch Information

B. Overview the Scene

1. Hazards/Safety

2. Mechanism of Injury

3. Patient Information

4. Additional Resources

C. Identify Yourself and Team

D. Perform Prioritized Patient Assessment

E. Determine/Acknowledge Primary Complaint

1. Transport Priority Decisions Made

F. Complete Assessment is Finished, Repeated as Necessary

1. Examination Skills/Specialized Assessment Areas

a. Enhancing Communication Skills

1) Patient Interviewing Skills

2) Past Medical History

3) History of Present Illness/Injury

4) Communicating to Other Health Professionals

b. Inspection-Visual

1) Head, Facial, Neck Areas

2) Chest and Abdominal/Pelvic Area

c. Palpation

1) Chest/Abdominal Area

2) Skin

d. Auscultation

1) Chest/Neck Area

e. Percussion

f. Olfaction (Smell)

2. Types of Physical Exams

a. Trauma Patient Assessment

1) Primary Assessment

2) Secondary Assessment

3) Continuous Re-evaluation

4) Serial Vital Signs

b. Medical Patient Assessment

1) Communication/Interviewing Skills

2) Complete Primary and Secondary Assessments

3) Serial Vital Signs

3. Diagnostic Signs to Evaluate During Assessment

a. Airway

b. Breathing

c. Circulation

d. Neurological Exam

e. Glucose Determination

3.1 Blood glucose evaluation should occur on patients with risk

of hypoglycemia or unexplained altered mental status.

f. Pulse Oximetry

3.2 Pulse oximetry is helpful to determine oxygen saturation

levels in patients who may have respiratory or

cardiovascular compromise, or anyone who may be at risk of

hypoxia.

3.3 Pulse oximetry may not be accurate for patients with

decreased peripheral perfusion, CO toxicity, hypothermia,

cyanide poisoning or methyl alcohol poisoning.

g. Peak Expiratory Flow Rate

3.4 Peak Expiratory Flow Rates (PEFR) may be measured

during evaluation of patients in respiratory distress,

especially before and after medication management.

4. Additional Physical Exam Information

II. Documentation of Patient Assessment

III. Additional Information for Trauma Assessment and General Management

A. Mechanism of Injury

B. Priority Needs of the Trauma Patient

Specialist 4: TRIAGE 7/1/95

LESSON OUTLINE AND PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES:

According to Specialist lecture presentations, assigned readings, practical lab

and clinical assignments, the student will be able to state, describe, choose,

demonstrate, analyze, prescribe, evaluate, etc., the following, including

information addressed in:

EMT Objectives: Patient Assessment

Triage

OUTLINE AND OBJECTIVES

I. Introduction

A. Definitions

II. Incident Command Structure

III. General Principles of Triage

IV. Priorities of Care

V. General Principles of Management

Specialist 5: RESPIRATORY EMERGENCIES 7/1/95

CHEST INJURIES

ACID-BASE BALANCE

AIRWAY MANAGEMENT, OXYGEN THERAPY

LESSON OUTLINE AND PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES:

According to Specialist lecture presentations, assigned readings, practical lab

and clinical assignments, the student will be able to state, describe, choose,

demonstrate, analyze, prescribe, evaluate, etc., the following, including

information addressed in:

EMT Objectives: Anatomy and Physiology

Patient Assessment

Respiratory Emergencies, Chest Injuries

Airway Management, Oxygen Therapy

EMT Task Analysis: Airway Management, Oxygen Therapy,

Ventilation

Specialist Objectives: Fluids, IV Therapy, Shock

Paramedic Task Analysis: Airway Management, Oxygen Therapy,

Ventilation

Drug and Fluid Volume Calculations

Intraosseous Infusion

IV Discontinuation

Peripheral Intravenous Lines

Definitions:

To meet the objectives of this part, each student must be able to define and understand

related terminology. The student is responsible for all EMT terminology in related

sections. The following are not intended to be all-inclusive.

1. Acidosis: Increased hydrogen ion concentration with resulting pH less

than 7.35.

2. Alkalosis: Decreased hydrogen ion concentration with resulting pH

greater than 7.45.

3. Arterial

Blood Gases: The measurement of the oxygen, carbon dioxide, pH, and

bicarbonate in arterial blood samples.

4. Buffer: A chemical system set up in the body to respond to changes

in the hydrogen ion concentration to maintain a normal pH.

5. Dead Air Space: The amount of gas remaining in the upper air passages,

where it is unavailable for gas exchange.

6. Metabolic

Acidosis: An increase of acid produced by the body (i.e., diabetic

ketoacidosis), resulting in a decrease in pH.

7. Metabolic

Alkalosis: An excess of base in the body (may be caused by ingestion

or injection of large amounts of sodium bicarbonate),

resulting in an increase in pH.

8. pH: Term used to express the hydrogen ion concentration of a

fluid.

9. Respiratory

Acidosis: Retention of carbon dioxide and an increase in carbonic

acid, resulting in decreased pH.

10. Respiratory

Alkalosis: Excessive elimination of carbon dioxide, resulting in

increased pH.

OUTLINE AND OBJECTIVES

I. Anatomy and Physiology

A. Anatomy and Physiology of the Respiratory Tract

1. The Upper Airway

2. The Lower Airway

3. Anatomical Components of the Lungs

B. Mechanism of Respiration

C. Mechanism of Ventilation

D. Factors that Influence Levels of Oxygen and Carbon Dioxide

1. Oxygen and Carbon Dioxide Levels

5.1 Oxygen and carbon dioxide levels are determined by measuring

the partial pressure of those gases.

2. Diffusion

5.2 Diffusion is the movement of gases from high partial pressure to

low partial pressure.

3. Oxygen Concentration in the Blood

5.3 Oxygen diffuses into the blood plasma, where it combines with

hemoglobin. 97% of oxygen is carried by hemoglobin, 3% is

dissolved in plasma.

5.4 Carbon monoxide may displace oxygen on hemoglobin.

5.5 Oxygen derangements may be corrected by:

a. Increasing ventilation

b. Administering supplemental oxygen

c. Intermittent positive pressure ventilation

d. Correcting underlying cause

4. Carbon Dioxide Concentration in the Blood

5.6 Carbon dioxide is transported mainly as bicarbonate.

5.7 Factors that effect carbon dioxide concentrations in the blood

include:

a. Increased carbon dioxide production

b. Decreased carbon dioxide elimination

5.8 Carbon dioxide derangements may be corrected by:

a. Increasing/decreasing ventilation

b. Correcting underlying cause

E. Regulation of Respiration

F. Modified Forms of Respiration

G. Measures of Respiratory Function

H. Acid-Base Balance

5.9 Normal body pH is 7.35 - 7.45.

1. Acid-Base Regulators

5.10 Three (3) principle acid-base regulators are:

a. Buffer system: the most rapidly acting (fraction of a second)

acid-base regulator. It acts as a "chemical sponge",

"soaking up" hydrogen ions, when present in excess, and

releasing them when the concentration is deficient.

b. Respiratory system: slower than the buffer system (one to

three minutes). An increase in levels of carbon dioxide or

hydrogen ions stimulates the respiratory center in the brain

to increase the rate and depth of respirations. This

increases the rate of carbon dioxide exhaled, and less

carbonic acid is formed. As carbon dioxide and hydrogen

concentrations decrease, stimulus to the respiratory center

is decreased and depth of respirations return to normal.

c. Renal system: the slowest mechanism (hours to days) in

long term regulation of acid-base balance. The kidneys

excrete and/or retain hydrogen and bicarbonate ions.

5.11 The bicarbonate buffer system is the most important buffer system

in the body.

5.12 The carbonate-carbonic acid equilibrium is CO2+H2O«H2CO3«

H+HCO3.

2. Respiratory Acidosis

5.13 Increased CO2 with resulting decreased pH stimulates the

respiratory center to increase the rate and depth of breathing.

5.14 When the respiratory system fails to compensate, the mechanism

for correcting respiratory acidosis is the kidneys, by conserving

bicarbonate and excreting more hydrogen ions.

5.15 The management of respiratory acidosis is to assist in ventilating

the patient with a bag valve mask, or other positive pressure

device, to increase the inspiratory volume, and eliminate more

carbon dioxide via the lungs.

5.16 A common cause of respiratory acidosis is respiratory depression,

which is secondary to:

a. Drug effect causing hypoventilation

b. Traumatic injury

c. Respiratory disease

3. Respiratory Alkalosis

5.17 When the respiratory system fails to compensate, the mechanism

for correcting respiratory alkalosis is the kidneys, by excreting

more bicarbonate and retaining hydrogen ions.

5.18 The management of respiratory alkalosis is to assist the patient in

retaining carbon dioxide, such as having them slow their breathing

to a normal rate.

5.19 A common cause of respiratory alkalosis is hyperventilation

syndrome.

4. Metabolic Acidosis

5.20 The compensatory mechanism for correcting metabolic acidosis is

through the lungs, where rate and depth of respirations increase, to

expel more carbon dioxide.

5.21 The compensatory mechanism for correcting metabolic acidosis,

over the long term lies with the kidneys excreting more hydrogen

ions.

5.22 Common causes of metabolic acidosis are:

a. Diabetic ketoacidosis

b. Lactic acid production during hypoxic states

5. Metabolic Alkalosis

5.23 The management of metabolic alkalosis is correcting the

underlying cause, such as restoring adequate circulation and

ventilation.

5.24 The compensatory mechanism for correcting metabolic alkalosis is

via the lungs, in an attempt to retain carbon dioxide. The kidneys

retain hydrogen ions.

5.25 A common cause of metabolic alkalosis is over-ingestion of

products containing sodium bicarbonate, such as antacids.

II. Respiratory Assessment

A. Airway Assessment

B. Assessment of Breathing

III. Respiratory Problems

A. Trauma

1. Airway Obstruction

a. Pathophysiology

b. Signs and Symptoms

c. Management

5.26 In the unconscious patient with a foreign body obstruction,

use BLS methods to relieve obstruction. If the obstruction

remains after one cycle, directly visualize the airway with the

laryngoscope. If the foreign body can be seen, remove with

Magill forceps.

5.27 Management of the choking victim in the late stages of

asphyxiation, after BLS and airway visualization has been

attempted, cricothyrotomy is performed by ALS personnel.

2. Laryngeal Spasm or Laryngeal Edema

a. Pathophysiology

b. Signs and Symptoms

c. Management

5.28 Management of acute laryngeal spasm or laryngeal edema

includes:

a. BLS management

b. Considering early endotracheal intubation before

airway becomes obstructed. Consider using a

smaller than normal ET tube to achieve placement.

c. Starting IV of crystalloid

3. Aspiration

a. Pathophysiology

b. Signs and Symptoms

c. Management

5.29 Management of the patient with possible aspiration includes:

a. BLS management

b. Establishing and maintaining advanced airway as

needed

c. Starting IV of crystalloid

4. Rib Fracture

a. Signs and Symptoms

b. Management

5.30 Management of the patient with suspected rib fractures

includes:

a. BLS management

b. Starting IV of crystalloid

5. Flail Chest

a. Pathophysiology

b. Signs and Symptoms

c. Management

5.31 Management of the patient with a flail chest includes:

a. BLS management

b. Establishing and maintaining advanced airway as

indicated

c. Auscultating breath sounds, monitoring chest rise and

fall, neck vein distention, and trachea location

d. Starting IV of crystalloid

6. Closed Pneumothorax

a. Pathophysiology

b. Signs and Symptoms

c. Management

5.32 Management of the patient with a closed pneumothorax

includes:

a. BLS management

b. Repeating auscultation of breath sounds

c. Establishing and maintaining advanced airway as

indicated

d. Starting IV of crystalloid

7. Open Pneumothorax

a. Pathophysiology

b. Signs and Symptoms

c. Management

5.33 Management of the patient with an open pneumothorax

includes:

a. BLS management

b. Establishing and maintaining advanced airway as

indicated

c. Repeating auscultation of breath sounds

d. Starting IV of crystalloid

8. Tension Pneumothorax

a. Pathophysiology

b. Signs and Symptoms

c. Management

5.34 Management of the patient with a tension pneumothorax

includes:

a. BLS management

b. Establishing and maintaining advanced airway as

indicated

c. Repeated auscultation of breath sounds before and

after treatment

d. Chest decompression would need to be performed by

ALS personnel

e. Starting IV of crystalloid

9. Hemothorax

a. Pathophysiology

b. Signs and Symptoms

c. Management

5.35 Management of the patient with a hemothorax includes:

a. BLS management

b. Establishing and maintaining advanced airway as

indicated

c. Repeating auscultation of breath sounds

d. Starting IV of crystalloid

10. Traumatic Asphyxia

a. Pathophysiology

b. Signs and Symptoms

c. Management

5.36 Management of the patient with traumatic asphyxia includes:

a. BLS management

b. Establishing and maintaining advanced airway as

indicated

c. Determining if chest decompression would need to be

performed by ALS personnel

d. Starting IV of crystalloid

11. Myocardial Contusion

a. Pathophysiology

b. Signs and Symptoms

c. Management

5.37 Management of the patient with myocardial contusion

includes:

a. BLS management

b. Establishing and maintaining advanced airway as

indicated

c. Starting IV of crystalloid

12. Pericardial Tamponade

a. Pathophysiology

b. Signs and Symptoms

5.38 Signs and symptoms of pericardial tamponade may include:

a. Thready, tachycardic pulse

b. Hypotension with narrow pulse pressure

c. Neck vein distention

d. Muffled heart tones

e. Diminished QRS amplitude

f. Pale, cool skin

g. Chest discomfort

c. Management

5.39 Management of the patient with pericardial tamponade

includes:

a. BLS management

b. Establishing and maintaining advanced airway as

indicated

c. Starting IV crystalloid

d. Immediate transport

B. Medical

1. Asthma

a. Pathophysiology

b. Signs and Symptoms

c. Management

5.40 Management of the patient with asthma includes:

a. BLS management

b. Starting IV of crystalloid

c. Observing patient for progression into status

asthmaticus

d. Be prepared to establish and maintain an advanced

airway as indicated

d. Status Asthmaticus

1) Signs and Symptoms

5.41 Patients with continued asthma, unrelieved by

medication administration, are usually dehydrated

and require fluid administration.

2) Management

5.42 Management for a patient in status asthmaticus is the

same as for the patient experiencing as asthma

attack but the sense of urgent rapid transport is

greater. Consider intubation as appropriate.

2. Chronic Bronchitis

a. Pathophysiology

b. Signs and Symptoms

c. Management

5.43 Management of the patient with chronic bronchitis includes:

a. BLS management

b. Starting IV of crystalloid

c. Establishing and maintaining advanced airway as

indicated

3. Emphysema

a. Pathophysiology

b. Signs and Symptoms

c. Management

5.44 Management of the patient with emphysema includes:

a. BLS management

b. Starting IV of crystalloid

c. Establishing and maintaining advanced airway as

indicated

4. Pneumonia

a. Pathophysiology

b. Signs and Symptoms

c. Management

5.45 Management of the patient with pneumonia includes:

a. BLS management

b. Starting IV of crystalloid

c. Establishing and maintaining advanced airway was

indicated

5. Pulmonary Embolism

a. Pathophysiology

b. Signs and Symptoms

c. Management

5.46 Management of the patient with a pulmonary embolism

includes:

a. BLS management

b. Establishing and maintaining advanced airway as

indicated

c. Starting IV of crystalloid

6. Anaphylaxis

a. Pathophysiology

b. Signs and Symptoms

c. Management

5.47 Management of the patient in anaphylaxis includes:

a. BLS management

b. Establishing and maintaining an advanced airway as

indicated

c. Starting IV of crystalloid

7. Hyperventilation Syndrome

a. Pathophysiology

b. Signs and Symptoms

c. Management

IV. Basic Airway Management and Oxygen Therapy

A. Basic Airway Management

1. Manual Airway Maneuvers

2. Basic Airway Adjuncts

3. Suctioning

4. Airway Obstruction Removal

B. Oxygen Administration Devices

C. Ventilation Devices and Procedures

V. Advanced Airway Management

A. Esophageal Obturator Airway/Esophageal Gastric Tube Airway

5.48 Advantages of EOA and EGTA insertion are:

a. The EOA/EGTA have a distal cuff which helps reduce gastric reflux

into the airway.

b. The procedure does not require direct visualization for placement.

5.49 Use of the EOA/EGTA is contraindicated in patients:

a. With a gag reflex

b. Under 16 years of age

c. Under 5 feet tall or over 6'7" tall

d. With known esophageal or liver disease or alcoholism

e. Who have ingested caustic substances

5.50 Successful use of the EOA/EGTA is dependent upon proper positioning of

the patient's head and jaw prior to insertion of the tube, and during

ventilation. The head should be in the neutral or flexed position and the

jaw should be lifted.

5.51 The EOA/EGTA should be inserted with the mask and tube assembled so

the cuff will stop at the appropriate depth.

5.52 Once in place, absent breath sounds and absence of chest rise and fall

during ventilation would indicate that the tube has been misplaced in the

trachea.

5.53 Cuff inflation should be completed after breath sounds have been

evaluated. The cuff should be inflated with 30-35cc of air to obtain a seal.

5.54 Effective management of the EOA/EGTA in an unconscious patient

includes:

a. Maintaining placement until an endotracheal tube is in place

b. Maintaining a good facial seal with the mask

5.55 The EOA/EGTA is removed considering the following factors:

a. The patient's level of consciousness is adequate to maintain

his/her own airway, or an endotracheal tube is in place.

b. A suction unit should be available and prepared prior to removal.

c. Ventilation equipment is prepared and supplemental oxygen is

available.

d. The patient is positioned on his/her side, unless contraindicated.

e. The cuff has been completely deflated, and the tube gently

removed.

B. Esophageal-Tracheal Airways

5.56 The Esophageal-Tracheal Double Lumen Airway (ETDLA) (Combitube) is

recognized as a substitute for the EOA/EGTA in Michigan.

5.57 Indications for placement of Esophageal-Tracheal Airways are the same

as for the EOA/EGTA.

5.58 Contraindications for placement of Esophageal-Tracheal Airways are the

same as for the EOA/EGTA.

5.59 The cuffs of the Esophageal-Tracheal Airways seal the pharynx or the

esophagus, allowing ventilations to enter the larynx indirectly or directly

(dependent on device), eliminating the need for a face mask seal.

C. Endotracheal Intubation

1. General Considerations

5.60 Indications for endotracheal intubation include:

a. All critical patients who are unable to maintain their own

airway

b. Patients who are unresponsive with absent gag reflex

c. When there is risk of aspiration, as in the unconscious

and/or altered mental status patient

d. When the potential for laryngeal swelling is evident

e. The dyspneic patient that needs ventilatory assistance due

to respiratory fatigue and ventilatory failure

f. The need for direct tracheal suctioning

g. The need for positive pressure ventilation

5.61 Causes of potentially difficult endotracheal intubations include

patients with:

a. Prominent upper incisors

b. Underbite (most small children)

c. A large tongue (most small children)

d. A narrow mouth

e. Excess secretions in the oropharynx

f. A large "bull" neck

g. Arthritic changes or fusion of the cervical spine

h. Dentures

i. Laryngeal edema

5.62 It is essential that baseline breath sounds be obtained prior to

intubation.

5.63 Hyperventilation of the apneic patient prior to each intubation

attempt is important.

5.64 Optimal head positioning for endotracheal intubation is a neutral or

sniffing position. The neck should not be hyperextended.

5.65 Rough technique may increase the risk of laryngospasm.

5.66 Intubation of a patient with copious gastric reflux should be

completed with the use of Sellick's maneuver (cricoid pressure) to

stem flow.

5.67 Suctioning of the patient prior to intubation is best accomplished

under direct laryngoscopy with a pharyngeal suction tip.

5.68 Tube size in the average adult patient is 8.0mm I.D. Keep one size

smaller and larger readily accessible.

5.69 The laryngoscope blade is available in two primary styles, with

each style requiring a specific technique for use.

a. Each blade works by sweeping the tongue to the left into the

cheek area.

b. The curved blade's tip is inserted into the vallecula, with

lifting movement of the tongue, which indirectly lifts the

adjacent epiglottis to expose the vocal cords.

c. The tip of the straight blade is inserted under the epiglottis,

and the entire blade is used to lift the tongue and epiglottis

for visualization.

d. Blade insertion should be slow and gradual, with recognition

of each descending landmark.

5.70 Manipulation of the blade with a prying or levering motion may

result in damage to the teeth or soft tissues.

5.71 Use of Sellick's maneuver may be beneficial in intubation.

5.72 Indications for the use of a stylet include:

a. Orotracheal intubations

b. In the trauma victim, to allow orotracheal and digital

intubation with minimal movement of cervical soft tissue.

c. Anticipated difficult intubations

5.73 Proper technique for the use of a stylet includes:

a. Recessing the tip of the stylet within the end of the

endotracheal tube, which will prevent the laceration of

laryngeal structures.

b. Insertion within the tube, and bending the distal third to a

hockey stick configuration (45 degree angle).

5.74 The endotracheal tube should be inserted under conditions that

are as sterile as possible.

5.75 The cuff should be inflated as soon as the tube is inserted, to

enhance breath sounds and seal the airway against aspiration.

5.76 The cuff of the ET tube should only be inflated until a seal is

achieved (no blow-by heard). Excessive cuff pressure can occur

when a specific number of cc's are used as a guide for inflation.

5.77 Excessive cuff pressure may result in mucosal necrosis,

esophageal or tracheal damage.

5.78 Correct tube positioning is noted when there:

a. Are equal breath sounds bilaterally

b. Is an absence of gastric sounds with ventilation

c. Is fogging of the tube with exhalation

d. Is full movement of the chest with ventilation

e. Is direct visualization of the tube passing through the vocal

cords (orotracheal route)

5.79 If tube placement cannot be confirmed, it should be assumed that it

is incorrectly placed, BLS ventilations resumed, and alternative

airway adjuncts considered.

5.80 Tube placement may be monitored by non-invasive respiratory

monitoring devices if available.

5.81 Tube depth should be noted utilizing the centimeter marker. This

must be monitored for shifting during treatment and transport.

5.82 Each intubation attempt for an apneic patient should take no longer

than 30 seconds, with appropriate oxygenation between each

attempt.

5.83 For the breathing patient, the intubation technique should not be

rushed. Rough technique will increase the chance of

laryngospasm.

5.84 Proper technique for the removal of the endotracheal tube

(extubation) includes:

a. The patient's level of consciousness is adequate to

maintain his/her own airway (orotracheal).

b. A suction unit is prepared and available.

c. Ventilation equipment is prepared.

d. Intubation equipment is ready in the event that re-intubation

is necessary.

e. The patient is positioned on his/her side, unless

contraindicated.

f. The cuff is fully deflated, and the tube gently removed.

g. Supplemental oxygen is applied after removal.

2. General Considerations for Orotracheal Intubation

5.85 Orotracheal intubation is accomplished under direct visualization of

the tube passing between the vocal cords (ideal depth is halfway

between the vocal cords and carina).

5.86 Holding the tube vertically will result in loss of view. It is

preferable to hold it on its side and insert from the right

corner of the mouth.

5.87 A bite block should be inserted to prevent biting of the tube, and

subsequent asphyxiation.

3. General Considerations for Nasotracheal Intubation

5.88 Indications for nasotracheal intubation include patients:

a. With suspected spinal injury

b. With severe trauma to the mouth and lower jaw that would

complicate use of a laryngoscope

c. With head injury or severe, prolonged seizures, in which the

teeth and jaw are clenched shut and the mouth cannot be

opened

d. Who are conscious, or have altered level of consciousness

and hypoventilating severely, and need positive pressure

ventilation or tracheal suctioning

5.89 Placement of a nasotracheal tube requires that the patient is

breathing. This allows for listening to breath sounds at the end of

the tube as it is advanced into the larynx.

5.90 Proper technique for the insertion of an endotracheal tube through

the nasotracheal route includes:

a. Choosing an endotracheal tube one size smaller than one

chosen for orotracheal intubation in the same patient to

facilitate passage through the nasopharynx

b. Lubricating the tube with a water soluble lubricant to prevent

injury to the nasal mucosa

c. Listening for breath sounds at the end of the tube

d. Inserting the tube during inspiration

e. Tube placement is confirmed as with other insertion

procedures.

4. General Considerations for Digital Intubation

5.91 Indications for digital intubation include:

a. Patients who may be unable to be placed in a supine

position

b. Patients who may be inaccessible for standard intubation

techniques

c. Patients at risk for cervical spine injury

d. Patients who have facial injuries that distort anatomy

5.92 Digital intubation is accomplished by:

a. Placement of a stylet within the tube and the tube formed in

a hockey stick configuration

b. Lubricating the tube with a water soluble lubricant

c. Using the index and middle finger of one hand to walk down

the midline of the tongue while pulling anterior, which will lift

the epiglottis within reach of the fingers

d. Placing the tube anterior to the palpating fingers and

advancing distally through the vocal cords

e. Tube placement is confirmed as with other insertion

procedures.

5. Pediatric Orotracheal Intubation

5.93 Indications for orotracheal intubation in the pediatric patient are the

same as those for the adult.

5.94 The most appropriate size endotracheal tube for an infant/child is

determined using the formula "16 plus age (in years) divided by 4".

An alternate approach, although not as accurate, is to measure the

diameter of the small finger or the nares. Tubes one-half size

larger and smaller should also be available to prepare for

individual differences.

5.95 A straight blade should be used for infants. (Due to the relatively

large size of the epiglottis of the infant, a curved blade cannot lift

the tongue sufficiently to raise the epiglottis and expose the glottic

opening).

5.96 For the child in respiratory arrest due to epiglottitis, intubation

should not be attempted initially. Frequently, the child is in

respiratory arrest due to respiratory muscle fatigue secondary to

high airway resistance, not due to total obstruction. Ventilation

with the BVM will frequently work and should be the initial

approach. Intubation in this situation is extremely difficult and

should be performed with guidance from medical control.

5.97 A stylet is important when intubating infants and small children,

due to their anatomy. The tongue is relatively larger and the glottic

opening is approximately two cervical vertebrae higher than the

adult. Both of these differences cause the ET tube to require a

greater bend to reach the glottic opening.

5.98 For children up to approximately age 8, an uncuffed ET should be

used. The ET will seal at the cricoid level, the narrowest point of

the airway, due to the elasticity of the child's airway and the

circular shape of the cricoid cartilage.

5.99 When intubating an infant/small child, the tube should be inserted

only until the glottic marker on the tube approximates the vocal

cords, to avoid right mainstem intubation.

5.100 Nasotracheal intubation should be avoided in children in the

prehospital setting due to the high probability of adenoid trauma

and consequent bleeding into the airway.

5.101 During intubation of the neonate, the heart rate should be

monitored by an assistant to detect bradycardia due to vagal

stimulation.

5.102 Breath sounds of the intubated infant should be auscultated in the

axillary area, in order to provide maximum separation of the

lung fields and accentuate unequal breath sounds caused by right

mainstem placement.

Specialist 6: FLUIDS AND ELECTROLYTES 7/1/95

IV THERAPY

SHOCK

LESSON OUTLINE AND PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES:

According to Specialist lecture presentations, assigned readings, practical lab

and clinical assignments, the student will be able to state, describe, choose,

demonstrate, analyze, prescribe, evaluate, etc., the following, including

information addressed in:

EMT Objectives: IV Maintenance, Shock

Anatomy and Physiology

Patient Assessment

EMT Task Analysis: PASG: Application/ Inflation

PASG: Deflation

All Assessment Skills

Paramedic Task Analysis: Airway Management, Oxygen Therapy,

Ventilation

Drug and Fluid Volume Calculations

Intraosseous Infusion

IV Discontinuation

Peripheral Intravenous Lines

Definitions:

To meet the objectives of this part, each student must be able to define and understand

related terminology. The student is responsible for all EMT terminology in related

sections. The following terms are not intended to be all-inclusive.

1. ABO System: A system of blood typing based on the presence of proteins

on the surface of the red blood cells.

2. Anion: An ion with a negative charge.

3. Cation: An ion with a positive charge.

4. Colloid Solution: A solution containing large osmotically active molecules

such as proteins.

5. Crystalloid

Solution: A solution which does not contain protein or other large

molecules.

6. Fick Principle: The amount of oxygen delivered to each cell is directly

related to oxygen exchange in the lungs, the circulation of

oxygen to the cells, and the presence of red blood cells.

7. Fluid Challenge: A large amount of solution infused rapidly to rule out

hypovolemia.

8. Hematocrit: The percentage of the blood consisting of the red blood

cells (normal is 45 percent).

9. Hemoglobin: An iron-containing compound, found within the red blood

cell, that is responsible for the transport and delivery of

oxygen to the body cells. The normal amount of hemoglobin

is 15 grams/100 ml of blood.

10. Hemolytic

Reaction: An adverse response to receiving blood or blood products.

Also referred to as transfusion reaction.

11. Hypertonic: A solution having a concentration of solute molecules higher

than that within the cells.

12. Hypotonic: A solution having a concentration of solute molecules lower

than that inside the cells.

13. Ion: An atom or group of atoms possessing a positive or negative

charge.

14. Isotonic: A solution having concentration of solute molecules

equivalent to that inside a cell, or the same concentration of

solutes on either side of a semipermeable membrane.

15. Nonelectrolyte: A molecule (group of atoms) with no electric charge.

16. Osmosis: Movement of solvent (water) through a semipermeable

membrane from a solution of lower concentration to a

solution of higher concentration, thereby equalizing the

concentration of solute on the two sides of the membrane.

17. Peripheral

Vascular

Resistance: The resistance to blood flow due to the peripheral blood

vessels. This pressure must be overcome for the heart to

pump blood effectively.

18. Pyrogenic

Reaction: An adverse response to receiving foreign protein, causing

fever (most common in intravenous infusions).

19. Semipermeable

Membrane: A membrane that allows some molecules in a solution to

pass through, but not others.

20. Tonicity: The number of particles present per unit volume.

21. Total Body Water

(TBW): The amount of water in the body, approximately 60% of total

body weight.

OUTLINE AND OBJECTIVES

I. Fluids and Electrolytes

A. Water Distribution

6.1 The two (2) compartments of total body water (TBW) are:

a. Intracellular fluid.

b. Extracellular fluid

6.2 Two (2) types of extracellular fluid are:

a. Interstitial fluid

b. Intravascular fluid (plasma)

B. Role of Electrolytes

1. Principle Cations

6.3 Four (4) principle cations and their functions are:

a. Sodium (Na+) - most prevalent of the extracellular

cations. It regulates the distribution of water throughout

the body.

b. Potassium (K+) - chief cation of the intracellular fluid. Has a

critical role in mediating electrical impulses in nerves and

muscles, including that of the heart.

c. Calcium (Ca++) - necessary for bone development, blood

clotting, neuromuscular activity and muscle contraction.

d. Magnesium (Mg++) - is important as a coenzyme for

metabolism of proteins and carbohydrates.

6.4 Patients using diuretic medications may lose potassium and

develop a potassium deficiency called hypokalemia.

6.5 Patients with renal disease may retain potassium, and develop a

high potassium level called hyperkalemia.

6.6 Low or high potassium levels may cause cardiac dysrhythmias.

6.7 A low calcium level may cause muscle tissue to spasm. This may

also cause seizures and weak heart muscle contraction.

6.8 Magnesium plays a similar role to calcium in controlling

neuromuscular response. A deficiency may cause spasm and

muscle weakness.

2. Principle Anions

6.9 Two (2) principle anions and their functions are:

a. Chloride (Cl-) - found in the extracellular fluid, which

participates indirectly in regulating the body's acid-base

balance.

b. Bicarbonate (HCO3

-) - chief buffer of the body, which

maintains acid-base balance.

C. Movement of Water, Solutes

1. Osmosis

2. Diffusion

3. Tonicity

a. Isotonic

b. Hypotonic

c. Hypertonic

D. Disorders of Hydration

1. Dehydration

6.10 Dehydration is the abnormal loss of fluid which also effects loss of

electrolytes from the body.

a. Causes

6.11 Possible causes of dehydration are:

a. Vomiting

b. Diarrhea

c. Increased urination, such as in diabetes

d. Increased respiration

e. Diaphoresis

f. Third space losses (burns, peripheral edema,

wounds, bowel obstruction)

g. Fever

h. Hot environment

i. Plasma losses

b. Signs and Symptoms

c. Management

6.12 Management of the patient with dehydration includes:

a. BLS Management

b. Starting IV of crystalloid, administering fluid bolus of

200 - 400 ml titrated until improvement in symptoms

(20ml/kg in peds)

2. Overhydration

a. Causes

6.13 Overhydration occurs when the body is unable to eliminate

water and salts as needed. This can occur with congestive

heart failure, liver or renal failure. This can also occur from

over-infusion of intravenous fluids.

b. Signs and Symptoms

6.14 Possible signs and symptoms of overhydration are:

a. Pulmonary edema

b. Dyspnea, rales

c. Jugular vein distention

d. Hypertension

e. Peripheral edema

c. Management

6.15 Management of the overhydrated patient includes:

a. BLS management (as in CHF patient)

b. Starting IV of crystalloid

c. Fowler's position may possibly improve respiratory

effort

II. IV Therapy

A. Blood and Blood Components

1. Functions

2. Major Blood Components

3. Blood Preparations, Derivatives and Substitutes

6.16 The optimum fluid for volume replacement is whole blood.

B. IV Fluids and Equipment

1. Types of Fluids

a. Colloids

6.17 A colloid is a solution with high molecular

weight. These solutions are used as volume expanders and

are rarely used prehospital.

b. Crystalloids - Prehospital Solutions

6.18 An isotonic solution has the same concentration as the fluid

compartment it is being compared to. Examples of isotonic

solutions are Normal Saline and Lactated Ringer's.

6.19 A hypotonic solution has a concentration of solutes less

than that found within the cell. The water in this solution will

move into the cells. An example of a hypotonic solution is

5% Dextrose in Water.

6.20 A hypertonic solution has a concentration of solutes greater

than that found in the compartment it is being compared to.

This solution will draw water from the cells into the vascular

space. An example of a hypertonic solution is 50%

Dextrose.

2. Specific Indications for Use

6.21 The prehospital choice for volume fluid replacement is an isotonic

crystalloid solution, such as Ringer's Lactate or Normal

Saline.

3. Contraindications for Specific Use

6.22 Glucose solutions are not used as rapid volume expanders

because glucose, when metabolized, converts the solution into free

water.

4. Maintenance of Solutions and Equipment

6.23 Solutions must be stored in a clean, dry place at a temperature as

close to normal body temperature as possible, in accordance with

state pharmacy regulations.

5. Additional Equipment

a. Administration Sets

6.24 Types of intravenous administration sets are:

a. Macro drip - which deliver 10 - 20 gtt/ml

b. Micro drip (or mini drip) - which deliver 60 gtt/ml

c. Blood infusion sets

d. Volume control sets (Buretrol, Volutrol) may be used

for pediatrics or administration of medication

which deliver 60 gtt/ml

b. Needles and Catheters

6.25 When replacing fluid volume in the adult, the intravenous

catheter should be a large gauge, generally a 14 or 16

gauge catheter.

6.26 When using an intravenous line to keep a vein open for

possible drug administration, generally a 18 or 20 gauge

catheter is sufficient, for an adult.

6. Factors Effecting Flow and Patency of IV

6.27 Factors that influence IV flow, other than size of the IV catheter,

are:

a. Length and diameter of administration set tubing

b. The height of the IV bag

c. The pressure applied to the IV bag

d. Patient positioning

C. Venous Cannulation

1. Peripheral IV Insertion

a. Indications

6.28 Three (3) indications for IV cannulation in the field are:

a. Drug administration

b. Replacement of fluid

c. Obtaining specimens of venous blood for laboratory

determinations

b. Advantages/Disadvantages of Peripheral IV

6.29 Advantages of peripheral IV therapy are:

a. The technique is easy to master

b. Catheterization of a peripheral vein does not interfere

with continuing ventilation and chest compression

during CPR

6.30 Disadvantages of peripheral IV therapy are:

a. It may be difficult or impossible to establish an access

from a peripheral vein

b. There can be significant delay in the drug reaching

the heart

c. Peak drug levels are lower

d. Hypertonic or irritating solutions should not be

administered via this route

e. The incidence of phlebitis increases

c. Types of Catheters

6.31 Types of catheters used in the prehospital setting are:

a. The catheter-over-the-needle

b. The catheter-through-the-needle

c. Butterfly needles

d. Insertion Sites

6.32 Common areas for IV cannulation in the field are:

a. The dorsum of the hand

b. The ventral forearm

c. The antecubital fossa

d. The external jugular vein

6.33 The antecubital fossa should be the first choice in cardiac

arrest.

6.34 The long saphenous veins are commonly used when IV

cannulation occurs in the legs.

e. Complications

1) Local

6.35 Local complications of IV therapy are:

a. Hematoma

b. Thrombophlebitis

c. Cellulitis

d. Infiltration

e. Inadvertent arterial puncture

6.36 Signs and symptoms of local infiltration are:

a. Edema at the venipuncture site

b. Significant slowing or stopping of the IV

infusion

c. No blood return in the IV tubing

d. Pain

6.37 The correct first step in managing local IV infiltration

is to discontinue the IV.

6.38 Signs and symptoms of arterial puncture are:

a. Pain

b. Immediate return of bright red blood into the IV

tubing

6.39 The correct management for arterial puncture during

an IV attempt is immediate withdrawal of the needle

and the application of direct pressure to the puncture

site for at least five (5) minutes.

2) Systemic

6.40 Systemic complications of IV therapy are:

a. Fluid overload, pulmonary edema, third

spacing

b. Sepsis

c. Pulmonary thromboembolism

d. Air embolism

e. Catheter fragment embolism

f. Increased intracranial pressure, secondary to

head injury

g. Hemodilution

h. Decreased core temperature

i. Fluid leaking

j. Pyrogenic reaction (rare with crystalloids)

6.41 The management for pyrogenic reaction is immediate

cessation of the IV infusion.

6.42 When using a catheter-over-the-needle type IV

catheter, once it has been withdrawn, the needle

should never be pushed back into the catheter as this

may cause catheter shear.

6.43 When using a catheter-through-the-needle type IV

catheter, the catheter should never be pulled back

through the needle as this may cause catheter shear.

f. Evaluation/Maintenance of Patency

g. Calculation of Infusion Rates

6.44 Rate of fluid replacement is dependent on monitoring of the

patient's:

a. Pulse

b. Skin condition (temperature, color, moisture)

c. Capillary refill

d. LOC

e. Blood pressure

2. Central IV Lines

a. Indications

6.45 Central IV line placement is performed when peripheral

insertion is not available or when fluids/medications must be

administered into the central circulation. They are also used

for insertion of monitoring devices. Central lines are rarely

established in the prehospital setting.

b. Insertion Sites

6.46 Central line cannulation may be performed under the

authority of local medical control. The common locations of

central IV sites are:

a. Femoral vein

b. Internal jugular vein

c. Subclavian vein

c. Complications

6.47 Complications of central line cannulation may include:

a. Hematoma

b. Pneumothorax

c. Hemothorax

d. Air embolism

e. Infiltration of fluid into the pleural or mediastinal

space

D. Intraosseous Infusions

1. Indications

6.48 The intraosseous (IO) route is used in the pediatric patient (most

commonly under the five years of age) when peripheral access has

not been successful.

6.49 The IO route can be used for all the common emergency

medications as well as for fluid resuscitation involving shock.

2. Contraindications

6.50 Contraindications for the IO route include:

a. Fracture of the extremity

b. Infiltration of the IV fluid at the site

c. Burned tissue

d. Previous IO insertion site

e. Infection, cellulitis

3. Complications

6.51 Complications of the IO route include:

a. Sepsis

b. Osteomyelitis

c. Bone marrow damage

d. Fat embolism

4. Equipment

6.52 A bone marrow type needle and a syringe will be needed along

with the standard IV set up for an intraosseous infusion. Bone

marrow needles specially developed for intraosseous infusions are

short and easily stabilized for use in the prehospital setting.

5. Locations for Insertion

6.53 A common site for IO insertion is the proximal tibia. The distal

femur and distal tibia may also be used.

III. Pathophysiology/Management of Shock

A. Review Anatomy and Physiology

1. Circulatory System

2. Innervation of Circulatory System

B. Defintions of Shock

1. Physiology of Aerobic Metabolism

6.54 Inadequate cellular oxygenation produces anaerobic metabolism.

6.55 Anaerobic metabolism occurs in shock states.

6.56 Normal aerobic metabolism is maintained by RBC oxygenation,

and can only occur if:

a. The alveoli are adequately oxygenated. This is dependent

on:

1) Open airway

2) Adequate ventilation

3) Normal oxygen levels in environment (FiO2)

b. Oxygen is transported across the alveolar/capillary wall.

This is dependent on:

1) Presence of oxygen in alveolus

2) Conditions of alveolar wall

3) Presence of RBC to on load oxygen

4) No edema to block passage of oxygen

5) Patient temperature; if patient is hypothermic,

oxygen is less readily released from hemoglobin to

the patient's tissues

2. Shock Defined As Inadequate Tissue Perfusion

6.57 Peripheral tissue oxygenation is dependent on:

a. Adequate number of RBC's

b. Adequate tissue perfusion

c. Adequate off-loading of oxygen

6.58 The components of adequate perfusion are:

a. Pumping heart, with adequate:

1) Strength of contractions

2) Rate of contractions

3) Preload (blood volume available to the atrium)

b. Fluid in the system

1) Preload must be adequate

2) Consistent fluid volume

c. Container

1) Amount of fluid in system has to fit container size

2) Heart chambers and blood vessels must maintain

their size to ensure efficient pressure and perfusion

3) Afterload (or resistance to pumping throughout the

system).

d. Oxygen

1) Oxygen must be present on the hemoglobin molecule

or anaerobic metabolism occurs.

C. Stages of Shock

1. Compensated Shock

6.59 In compensated shock, the body's defense mechanisms attempt to

preserve blood pressure and blood flow to major organs.

Baroreceptors stimulate sympathetic nervous system to secrete

norepinephrine and epinephrine, and the following occur:

a. Precapillary sphincters close, blood is shunted to larger

vessels

b. Increased heart rate and strength of contractions

c. Increased respiratory function. Bronchodilation. This will

continue until the problem is solved or shock progresses to

being decompensated.

2. Decompensated Shock

6.60 In decompensated shock:

a. Precapillary sphincters open, blood pressure falls

b. Cardiac output falls

c. Blood sludges in tissue beds, blood flow stagnates

d. Red cells stack (rouleaux)

3. Irreversible Shock

6.61 In irreversible shock:

a. Cell death begins

b. Vital organs falter

c. Patient may be resuscitated but will usually die later (ARDS,

renal and hepatic failure, sepsis)

D. Assessment of Shock

6.62 Assessment of the potential shock patient includes:

a. BLS assessment

b. Continued re-assessment with serial vital signs

c. Monitoring EKG

1. Signs and Symptoms

E. Specific Types of Shock

1. Hypovolemic

a. Pathophysiology

b. Signs and Symptoms

c. Management

6.63 The management of the hypovolemic shock patient may

include:

a. BLS management

b. Establishing and maintaining an advanced airway as

indicated, with strict C-spine immobilization of the

trauma patient

c. While enroute, starting two large bore IV's with

crystalloid running wide-open, titrated to

patient condition. Do not delay transport to start IV

therapy.

2. Cardiogenic

a. Pathophysiology

6.64 The pathophysiology of cardiogenic shock is:

a. Pump failure; severe left ventricular failure (AMI,

CHF)

b. Coronary artery perfusion is decreased, worsening

the situation

c. Compensatory mechanisms worsen the situation

d. Patient may be normovolemic or hypovolemic

b. Signs and Symptoms

6.65 Possible signs and symptoms of cardiogenic shock are:

a. Signs and symptoms of AMI, CHF

b. Hypotension

c. Altered LOC

d. Rapid, thready pulse

e. Other serious dysrhythmias may appear, including

profound bradycardia. It is difficult to know if rhythm

is causing hypotension or shock causing

dysrhythmia.

f. Skin is cool, clammy, poor color (cyanosis, pallor,

ashen)

g. Rapid, shallow breathing

c. Management

6.66 Management of the cardiogenic shock patient may include:

a. BLS management

b. Establishing and maintaining an advanced airway as

indicated

c. Starting IV of crystalloid

d. Considering administration of a fluid bolus

6.67 The rationale for performing a fluid challenge in a possible

cardiogenic shock patient is to rule out the possibility of

hypovolemia. A fluid challenge is accomplished by

administering an IV bolus of crystalloid (normal saline) very

rapidly and then reassessing patient condition (including

VS, LOC and breath sounds).

a. If a patient improves with rapid volume infusion, the

IV should be continued at a faster than keep open

rate, (possibly 100 - 150 ml per hour).

b. If a patient's condition deteriorates following rapid

volume infusion, the infusion should be slowed to a

TKO rate.

3. Neurogenic

a. Pathophysiology

b. Signs and Symptoms

c. Management

6.68 Management of the neurogenic shock patient may include:

a. BLS management

b. Establishing and maintaining an advanced airway as

indicated, with C-spine stabilization in the trauma

patient

c. Starting IV's of crystalloid running wide open, titrated

to patient's condition

4. Anaphylactic

a. Pathophysiology

6.69 The pathophysiological effects of anaphylaxis are:

a. Systemic vasodilation

b. Increased vascular permeability

c. Dysrhythmias

d. Bronchoconstriction

e. Possible laryngospasm

f. Widespread swelling possibly due to interstitial

edema

b. Signs and Symptoms

c. Management

6.70 Management of the patient in anaphylactic shock includes:

a. BLS management

b. Establishing and maintaining strict airway

management, considering early endotracheal

intubation

c. Placing a constricting band of venous flow proximal to

any injection site

d. Starting IVs of crystalloid running wide open, titrated

to patient condition

5. Septic Shock

6.71 Septic shock is the physiological response to bacterial infection

causing severe vasodilation, potential third spacing of fluid, and

pooling of blood in the periphery. The integrity of the cell

membrane is altered allowing for leakage of fluids and nutrients.

6.72 Management of septic shock is focused on maintaining circulating

blood volume.

6. Respiratory Shock

7. Metabolic Shock

6.73 Metabolic shock is caused by a metabolic derangement, such as

diabetic ketoacidosis. Management is focused on eliminating the

acidosis.

8. Psychogenic Shock

F. Pneumatic Anti-Shock Garment (PASG)

1. Introduction

2. Purpose/Advantages

3. Indications for Application

4. Contraindications for Use of PASG

5. Precautions or Alterations in Use of PASG

6. Indications for Inflation

7. Deflation of PASG

Specialist 7: INTRODUCTION TO PHARMACOLOGY 7/1/95

LESSON OUTLINE AND PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES:

According to Specialist lecture presentations, assigned readings, practical lab

and clinical assignments, the student will be able to state, describe, choose,

demonstrate, analyze, prescribe, evaluate, etc., the following, including

information addressed in:

Specialist Objectives: Fluids and Electrolytes, IV Therapy, Shock

Respiratory Emergencies

Paramedic Task Analysis: Airway Management, Oxygen Therapy,

Ventilation

Drug and Fluid Volume Calculations

Intraosseous Infusion

IV Discontinuation

Peripheral Intravenous Lines

Definitions:

To meet the objectives of this part, each student must be able to define and understand

related terminology. The following terms are not intended to be all-inclusive.

1. Apothecary

System: A system of weights and measures used widely in early

medicine.

2. Contraindication: A condition which precludes the use of a drug.

3. Indication: The condition for which a drug is recommended.

4. Local Effect: Drug exerts an effect only in the area in which it is

administered.

5. Metric System: A system of weights and measures widely used in science

and medicine. It is based on a unit of 10.

6. Precaution: Identifies type of patient or condition that warrants closer

observation for side effects with specific medication

administration.

7. Routes of

Administration: The route by which a drug is administered.

8. Side Effect: Predictable, expected secondary reaction, often not

desirable.

9. Systemic Effect: Drug is distributed and absorbed throughout the

bloodstream by one or more body systems.

OUTLINE AND OBJECTIVES

I. Introduction

A. Drug Sources

7.1 The four (4) sources of drug derivatives are:

a. Animal

b. Vegetable

c. Mineral

d. Synthetic

B. Drug Names

7.2 The four (4) names given to a drug are:

a. Official name

b. Chemical name

c. Generic name

II. Routes of Administration

7.3 Routes of drug administration are:

a. Buccal: Administration of a drug between the teeth and mucous

membrane of the cheek.

b. Endotracheal

(ET): Administration of a drug into the endotracheal tube to be

absorbed through the respiratory circulation.

c. Inhalation: Administration of aerosolized drugs into the lungs to be

absorbed through the respiratory circulation.

d. Intravenous

(IV): Administration of a drug directly into the venous

bloodstream (usually by way of an established IV line).

e. Intramuscular

(IM): Administration of a drug directly into muscle tissue where it

is then absorbed into the bloodstream.

f. Intraosseous

(IO): Administration of a drug into the bone marrow.

g. Oral: Administration of a drug by mouth (the patient swallows the

drug) where it is absorbed in the intestinal tract.

h. Rectal: Administration of a drug into the rectum where it is absorbed

by mucous membrane.

i. Subcutaneous

(SC, SQ): Administration of a drug into the loose connective tissue

located just beneath the skin.

j. Sublingual

(SL): Administration of a drug under the tongue where it is

absorbed by mucous membrane.

k. Topical: Administration of a drug by placing on the skin.

7.4 Routes of administration from fastest to slowest absorption rates are:

a. IV, IO (direct circulatory administration)

b. ET, Inhalation

c. SL, Rectal, Buccal

d. IM

e. SQ

f. Oral

III. Metric System

A. Review of Decimal System

B. Metric Units

7.5 Metric units of measurements and their abbreviations are:

a. Kilogram - kg (1,000 gm)

b. Gram - gm or g

c. Milligram - mg (1/1000 gm)

d. Microgram - ìg or mcg (1/1000 mg)

e. Liter - l or L (1,000 ml)

f. Milliliter - ml

C. Metric Conversions

7.6 Milligrams are converted to grams by moving the decimal point three (3)

decimal places to the left. Example: 500 milligrams equals 0.50 grams.

a. There are 1,000 micrograms in 1 milligram

b. There are 1,000 milligrams in 1 gram

c. There are 1,000 grams in 1 kilogram

7.7 Milliliters are converted to liters by moving the decimal point three (3)

places to the left. Example: 500 milliliters equals 0.50 liters.

a. There are 1,000 milliliters in a liter

b. There are 1,000 cubic centimeters in a liter

c. Milliliters (ml) and cubic centimeters (cc) are equivalent

Specialist 8: CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE 7/1/95

LESSON OUTLINE AND PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES:

According to Specialist lecture presentations, assigned readings, practical lab

and clinical assignments, the student will be able to state, describe, choose,

demonstrate, analyze, prescribe, evaluate, etc., the following, including

information addressed in:

EMT Objectives: Anatomy and Physiology

Patient Assessment

Cardiovascular Disease, CPR, AED

EMT Task Analysis: All Assessment Skills

BLS Skills

AED

Patient Management: Cardiac Arrest

Patient Management: Medical Scenario

Specialist Objectives: Fluids and Electrolytes, IV Therapy, Shock

Respiratory Emergencies

Paramedic Task Analysis: Airway Management, Oxygen Therapy,

Ventilation

Drug and Fluid Volume Calculations

Intraosseous Infusion

IV Discontinuation

Peripheral Intravenous Lines

OUTLINE AND OBJECTIVES

I. Cardiovascular Anatomy and Physiology

A. The Systemic Circulation

B. The Pulmonary Circulation

C. The Heart

1. Coronary Circulation

2. Pump Structure

3. Hemodynamic Influences

4. Innervation

VI. Cardiovascular Conditions

A. Coronary Artery Disease

1. Definitions

2. Predisposing Factors

B. Angina Pectoris

1. Pathophysiology

2. Signs and Symptoms

C. Myocardial Infarction

1. Pathophysiology

2. Signs and Symptoms

3. Management

D. Congestive Heart Failure

1. Pathophysiology

2. Signs and Symptoms

E. Cardiogenic Shock (See Fluids, Shock)

Specialist 9: CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM 7/1/95

LESSON OUTLINE AND PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES:

According to Specialist lecture presentations, assigned readings, practical lab

and clinical assignments, the student will be able to state, describe, choose,

demonstrate, analyze, prescribe, evaluate, etc., the following, including

information addressed in:

EMT Objectives: Central Nervous System

EMT Task Analysis: Spinal Immobilization Skills

Assessment Skills

Airway Management, Oxygen Therapy,

Ventilation

Specialist Objectives: Fluids and Electrolytes, IV Therapy, Shock

Respiratory Emergencies

Paramedic Task Analysis: Airway Management, Oxygen Therapy,

Ventilation

Drug and Fluid Volume Calculations

Intraosseous Infusion

IV Discontinuation

Peripheral Intravenous Lines

OUTLINE AND OBJECTIVES

I. Anatomy and Physiology of Nervous System

A. Central Nervous System (CNS)

1. Brain

a. Cerebrum

b. Cerebellum

c. Brain Stem

d. Meninges, Cerebrospinal Fluid, Ventricles

e. Blood Supply

2. Spinal Cord

B. Peripheral Nervous System

1. Anatomical Divisions

2. Functional Divisions

a. Somatic Nervous System

b. Autonomic Nervous System

1) Sympathetic Nervous System

2) Parasympathetic Nervous System

3. Nervous Transmission Within the CNS

II. Assessment of CNS Injury or Illness

A. Special Considerations in a Neurological Assessment

III. Central Nervous System Trauma

A. Scalp Injury

B. Skull Fracture

C. Brain Injury

1. Cerebral Concussion

2. Cerebral Contusion/Closed Head Injury

3. Intracranial Hematoma/Bleed

a. Signs and Symptoms

4. Intracranial Pressure

5. Management of the Head Injured Patient

D. Spinal Injuries

1. Common Mechanisms of Injury

2. Types of Spinal Injury

3. Complications

4. Assessment

5. Management

IV. Central Nervous System Medical Conditions

A. Coma of Unknown Origin

1. Definition, Complications of Coma

2. Commonly Encountered Causes of Coma

3. Assessment of Coma

4. Management

B. Seizure Disorders

1. Possible Causes

2. Types of Seizures

3. Phases of a Generalized Seizure

4. Assessment

5. Management

C. Cerebrovascular Accident

1. Definitions

2. Predisposing Risk Factors

3. Causes of Interrupted Blood Flow

4. Signs and Symptoms

5. Management of CVA

D. Meningitis

1. Pathophysiology

2. Signs and Symptoms

3. Management

Specialist 10: OTHER TRAUMATIC INJURIES: 7/1/95

BLEEDING & SOFT TISSUE INJURIES

MUSCULOSKELETAL INJURIES

FACIAL INJURIES

ABDOMINAL INJURIES, BURNS

LESSON OUTLINE AND PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES:

According to Specialist lecture presentations, assigned readings, practical lab

and clinical assignments, the student will be able to state, describe, choose,

demonstrate, analyze, prescribe, evaluate, etc., the following, including

information addressed in:

EMT Objectives: Patient Assessment

Other Traumatic Injuries

Shock

EMT Task Analysis: Bleeding Control, Soft Tissue Injuries

All Spinal Immobilization Skills

Airway Management, Oxygen Therapy,

Ventilation

PASG

Patient Management: Trauma Scenario

Specialist Objectives: Fluids and Electrolytes, IV Therapy, Shock

Respiratory Emergencies

Paramedic Task Analysis: Airway Management, Oxygen Therapy,

Ventilation

Drug and Fluid Volume Calculations

Intraosseous Infusion

IV Discontinuation

Peripheral Intravenous Lines

OUTLINE AND OBJECTIVES

I. Bleeding

A. Assessment of Bleeding

B. Signs and Symptoms of Bleeding

C. Basic Management of External Bleeding

D. Basic Management of Internal Bleeding

II. Soft Tissue Injury

A. Types of Soft Tissue Injury

B. Assessment of Soft Tissue Injury

C. Management of Bleeding and Soft Tissue Injury

III. Musculoskeletal Injuries

A. Assessment of Musculoskeletal Injuries

B. Causes of Musculoskeletal Injuries

C. Types of Injuries

D. Management of Musculoskeletal Injuries

E. Complications of Musculoskeletal Injuries

IV. Face, Neck (Soft Tissue), Ear and Eye Injuries

A. Concerns

B. Signs and Symptoms

C. Management

V. Abdominal Injuries

A. Types of Injuries

B. Signs and Symptoms

C. Management

VI. Burns

A. Assessment of Burn Injury

B. Classification of Burns

C. General Management

D. Chemical Burns

E. Electrical Injury

Specialist 11: ACUTE ABDOMEN 7/1/95

LESSON OUTLINE AND PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES:

According to Specialist lecture presentations, assigned readings, practical lab

and clinical assignments, the student will be able to state, describe, choose,

demonstrate, analyze, prescribe, evaluate, etc., the following, including

information addressed in:

EMT Objectives: Patient Assessment

Abdominal Injury, Abdominal Illness

Shock

EMT Task Analysis: All Assessment Skills

Specialist Objectives: IV Fluids, Shock

Respiratory Emergencies

Paramedic Task Analysis: Airway Management, Oxygen Therapy,

Ventilation

Drug and Fluid Volume Calculations

Intraosseous Infusion

IV Discontinuation

Peripheral Intravenous Lines

OUTLINE AND OBJECTIVES

I. Acute Abdomen

A. Review Anatomy and Physiology

B. Types/Causes of Abdominal Illness

C. Assessment

1. Special Considerations in Assessment

D. Complications of Abdominal Illness

E. Management

Specialist 12: DIABETES 7/1/95

LESSON OUTLINE AND PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES:

According to Specialist lecture presentations, assigned readings, practical lab

and clinical assignments, the student will be able to state, describe, choose,

demonstrate, analyze, prescribe, evaluate, etc., the following, including

information addressed in:

EMT Objectives: Patient Assessment

Diabetes

EMT Task Analysis: Patient Management-Medical Scenario

Specialist Objectives: Fluids, IV Therapy, Shock

Respiratory Emergencies

Paramedic Task Analysis: Airway Management, Oxygen Therapy,

Ventilation

Drug and Fluid Volume Calculations

Intraosseous Infusion

IV Discontinuation

Peripheral Intravenous Lines

OUTLINE AND OBJECTIVES

I. Anatomy and Physiology

A. Glucose Metabolism

II. Types of Diabetes

A. Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus (IDDM, Type I)

B. Non-Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus (NIDDM, Type II)

III. Clinical Conditions Related to Diabetes

A. Other Disease Processes Related to Diabetes

B. Hyperglycemia Leading To Ketoacidosis

C. Hypoglycemia Leading To Insulin Shock

IV. Hyperglycemia (Diabetic Ketoacidosis)

A. Pathophysiology

B. Assessment

C. Signs and Symptoms

D. Management

V. Hypoglycemia (Insulin Shock)

A. Pathophysiology

B. Assessment

C. Signs and Symptoms

D. Management

VI. Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic Non-Ketotic Coma (HHNK)

A. Pathophysiology

B. Precipitating Factors

C. Signs and Symptoms

D. Management

Specialist 16: THE GERIATRIC PATIENT 7/1/95

LESSON OUTLINE AND PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES:

According to Specialist lecture presentations, assigned readings, practical lab and

clinical assignments, the student will be able to state, describe, choose,

demonstrate, analyze, prescribe, evaluate, etc., the following, including information

addressed in:

EMT Objectives: Anatomy and Physiology

Patient Assessment

The Geriatric Patient

EMT Task Analysis: All Assessment Skills

Specialist Objectives: Fluids, IV Therapy, Shock

Respiratory Emergencies

Paramedic Task Analysis: Airway Management, Oxygen Therapy, Ventilation

Drug and Fluid Volume Calculations

Intraosseous Infusion

IV Discontinuation

Peripheral Intravenous Lines

OUTLINE AND OBJECTIVE

I. Introduction

II. Anatomy and Physiologic Differences in the Geriatric Patient

A. Cardiovascular

B. Respiratory

C. Digestive System

D. Nervous System

1. Sensory Changes

E. Musculoskeletal System

F. Integumentary System

G. Psycho/Social Changes

III. Geriatric Assessment Considerations

A. Communication

B. History Taking

C. Physical Exam

IV. Special Considerations in Caring for the Geriatric Patient

A. Trauma

B. Medical Emergencies

1. Cardiovascular

2. Respiratory

3. Abdominal Illness

4. Neurologic Problems

a. Delirium and Dementia

5. Environmental

6. Metabolic

C. Abuse/Neglect

D. Depression

Specialist 18: PEDIATRICS 7/1/95

LESSON OUTLINE AND PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES:

According to Specialist lecture presentations, assigned readings, practical lab

and clinical assignments, the student will be able to state, describe, choose,

demonstrate, analyze, prescribe, evaluate, etc., the following, including

information addressed in:

EMT Objectives: Patient Assessment

Pediatrics

Respiratory Emergencies

Airway Management, Oxygen Therapy,

Ventilation

EMT Task Analysis: All Assessment Skills

Patient Management: Trauma Scenario

Patient Management: Medical Scenario

Airway Management, Oxygen Therapy,

Ventilation

All Spinal Immobilization Skills

Specialist Objectives: Respiratory Emergencies

IV Fluids, Shock

Paramedic Task Analysis: Airway Management, Oxygen Therapy,

Ventilation

Drug and Fluid Volume Calculations

Intraosseous Infusion

IV Discontinuation

Peripheral Intravenous Lines

OUTLINE AND OBJECTIVES

I. Anatomical and Physiological Differences

II. General Assessment of Children

A. Goals

B. General Approach to Children

C. Components of Physical Exam

III. Respiratory Emergencies

A. General Airway Management, Oxygenation

B. Airway Compromise

1. Foreign Body Obstruction

C. Bronchiolitis

1. Pathophysiology

2. Signs and Symptoms

3. Management

D. Asthma

1. Pathophysiology

2. Signs and Symptoms

3. Management

E. Laryngo-tracheal-bronchitis (LTB) (Croup)

1. Pathophysiology

2. Signs and Symptoms

3. Management

F. Epiglottitis

1. Pathophysiology

2. Signs and Symptoms

3. Management

IV. Medical Emergencies

A. Dehydration

1. Pathophysiology

2. Signs and Symptoms

3. Management

B. Sepsis

1. Pathophysiology

2. Signs and Symptoms

3. Management

C. Meningitis

1. Pathophysiology

2. Signs and Symptoms

3. Management

D. Seizures

1. Pathophysiology

2. Signs and Symptoms

3. Management

E. Reye's Syndrome

1. Pathophysiology

2. Signs and Symptoms

3. Management

F. Sudden Infant Death Syndrome

1. General Information

2. Current Theories

3. Assessment Factors

4. Management

G. Hypothermia

V. Trauma Emergencies

A. Head Injury

1. Mechanism of Injury

2. Signs and Symptoms

3. Management

B. Other Traumatic Injuries

1. Chest Injury

2. Abdominal Injury

3. Spinal Injury

a. Spinal Immobilization

C. Bleeding/Shock

1. Pathophysiology

2. Special Considerations

3. Signs and Symptoms

4. Management

a. Special Considerations for Fluid Volume Replacement

D. General Trauma Management

VI. Child Abuse

A. Assessment Factors

B. Management of the Suspected Child Abuse Situation

VII. Pediatric Transport Considerations

VIII. Neonatal Resuscitation

(See Obstetrics, Newborn Resuscitation)

Specialist 19: ENVIRONMENTAL EMERGENCIES 7/1/95

LESSON OUTLINE AND PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES:

According to Specialist lecture presentations, assigned readings, practical lab

and clinical assignments, the student will be able to state, describe, choose,

demonstrate, analyze, prescribe, evaluate, etc., the following, including

information addressed in:

EMT Objectives: Patient Assessment

Environmental Emergencies

EMT Task Analysis: All Assessment Skills

Patient Management-Trauma Scenario

Patient Management-Medical Scenario

Airway Management, Oxygen Therapy

All Spinal Immobilization Skills

Specialist Objectives: Fluids, IV Therapy, Shock

Respiratory Emergencies

Paramedic Task Analysis: Airway Management, Oxygen Therapy,

Ventilation

Drug and Fluid Volume Calculations

Intraosseous Infusion

IV Discontinuation

Peripheral Intravenous Lines

OUTLINE AND OBJECTIVES

I. Heat Exposure (Hyperthermia)

A. Emergency Conditions

B. Normal Regulatory Mechanisms

C. Heat Cramps

1. Pathophysiology/Signs and Symptoms

2. Management

D. Heat Exhaustion

1. Pathophysiology

2. Signs and Symptoms

3. Management

E. Heat Stroke

1. Pathophysiology

2. Signs and Symptoms

3. Management

II. Emergencies Due to Cold

A. Normal Compensatory Mechanisms

B. Hypothermia

1. Pathophysiology

2. Signs and Symptoms

3. Management

C. Frostbite

1. Pathophysiology

2. Signs and Symptoms

3. Management

III. Water Related Emergencies

A. Water Rescue

B. Drowning/Near-Drowning/Submersion

1. Incidence

2. Pathophysiology

3. Management

C. Diving Injuries

1. Pathophysiology

2. Signs and Symptoms

3. Management

4. Special Considerations

IV. Radiation Injury

A. Responder Responsibilities

B. Pathophysiology

C. Signs and Symptoms

D. Management

SPECIALIST SKILLS TASK ANALYSIS

PARAMEDIC TASK ANALYSIS:

Airway Management/Oxygen Therapy/Ventilation Skills:

TA-1 Endotracheal Intubation

TA-3 Endotracheal Extubation

TA-4 Esophageal Obturator Airway Insertion

TA-5 Esophageal Obturator Airway Removal

TA-6 Esophageal Tracheal Double Lumen Airway Insertion

TA-7 Esophageal Tracheal Double Lumen Airway Removal

TA-8 Tracheal Suctioning

Fluid and Medication Administration:

TA-9 Fluid Volume Calculation

TA-10 Intraosseous Infusion

TA-11 IV Discontinuation

TA-12 IV Peripheral Line

PARAMEDIC 5/1/95

PRACTICAL EVALUATION FORM

Airway Management:

Endotracheal Intubation

Weight Score

0,1,2

1. Knows indication for procedure: any patient at risk to losing their

airway due to unconsciousness, airway or respiratory compromise.

2. Uses universal precautions throughout procedure.

3. Able to choose correct blade and properly attach to handle.

4. Checks that light works and is secure in blade.