Variation of education continuation. What you need to know about CE classes.

Finally, always let training objectives drive the training methodology. An objective to review a pain management protocol is easily accomplished by acknowledging receipt and reading of an electronic document. An objective to assess and appropriately treat a pediatric patient with pain secondary to musculoskeletal trauma is better accomplished through case review and simulation.

Backbreaking work. What you need to know about lifting and back safety in EMS.

Geraldine did not look very heavy, but she was wedged between the toilet and bath-tub. She had slipped while getting out of the tub and was complaining of severe hip pain. The room was only big enough for me, my partner and Geraldine, who needed to be lifted up and out of the room to the cot in the hallway.

A sickening situation. Prehospital assessment and treatment of foodborne illnesses.

While nausea, vomiting and diarrhea are the most common symptoms of foodborne illness, other more serious and life-threatening conditions can occur. Foodborne illness agents can be bacterial, viral, parasitic or noninfectious. Take a thorough history when treating suspected foodborne illness to prevent further spread.

Feeling queasy. EMS providers should be aware that many patients can experience motion sickness while riding in the ambulance.

Motion sickness can quickly become any patient's chief complaint. Rearward-facing transport, coupled with the stress and anxiety of injury or illness, can easily confuse the signals the body is sending to the CNS about equilibrium and balance. Any patient will appreciate your efforts to anticipate, prevent and minimize motion sickness.

Pediatric fluid resuscitation and airway management.

In summary, if the problem is volume shock, stop the loss and replace the fluid without overloading. IV fluids may be necessary to maintain perfusion pressure and administer medications. Pediatric airway anatomy requires different techniques and equipment for proper management, but all airway management starts with basic life support skills.

The methamphetamine crisis. What EMS providers need to know to stay safe and treat patients.

Methamphetamine is a highly addictive drug that is an increasingly recognized problem for emergency responders in all areas of the country. Any clandestine drug lab is a hazardous materials incident and crime scene. Enter a clandestine drug lab only if you have proper training and equipment--do not become a victim.

The nose: bleeds, breaks and obstructions.

Nosebleeds from a break and/or obstructon can result in life-threatening problems. The nose is the airway opening that warms, humidifies and filters air. Control epistaxis with well-aimed direct pressure for 10-15 minutes.