emDOCs.net Emergency Medicine (EM) Podcast PECARN STELAR Podcast - Episode 4: How Researchers Conduct Implementation Science Research
Jun 23, 2025
Jennifer Fish, an Associate Professor at the University of Florida and EMS researcher, discusses the intricacies of implementation science in emergency medical services. She reveals how pre-hospital steroid administration can significantly reduce pediatric asthma hospitalizations, especially in rural areas. The conversation highlights the challenges EMS providers face, such as gaps in medication delivery and hesitance due to inexperience. Fish also emphasizes the need for innovative practices and the integration of research in improving emergency care for children.
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Understanding Implementation Science
- Implementation science studies how evidence-based healthcare practices get adopted in real settings.
- Dr. Fish found EMS care for asthma highlighted gaps in applying research into practice effectively.
EMS Steroid Hesitancy Anecdote
- Dr. Fish recalls EMS not giving steroids for asthma due to short transport times.
- Operational realities like time constraints can hinder protocol adherence in EMS.
Low Steroid Use Despite Protocols
- Even with protocols in place, steroid administration by EMS was low at 25% despite expectations.
- This led Dr. Fish to explore broader EMS systemic factors influencing guideline adherence.