Pre-Hospital Care Podcast

Tracy Nicholls, Chief Executive of the College of Paramedics, joins us in this episode. With over 25 years of experience, Tracy has significantly influenced the evolution of Paramedicine, from her early days as a paramedic to becoming the first registered paramedic on an NHS Trust Board of Directors. This conversation delves into the advancement of paramedicine over the last decade, the College of Paramedics' journey toward Royal College status, and the pressing issue of handover delays. We also explore the Paramedic Wellness Programme, the importance of International Paramedics Day, and the College's relationship with the HCPC. Mental health, especially its increasing focus in recent years, is also a key topic. Join us as we explore the past, present, and future of the paramedic profession.

In this episode, we will speak with two distinguished guests who are leaders in critical care. Joining us from Cardiff University is Sharon Norman, the course lead for the Masters in Critical Care program at the Russell Group University. Sharon is a senior nurse by background and has been instrumental in shaping the curriculum and ensuring it meets the evolving demands within critical care. From across the Atlantic, we have Adam Greene, Adam is the director of Critical Care at the British Columbia Emergency Health Services (BCEHS) in Canada. Adam brings a wealth of practical experience and insights from his extensive educational background and critical care career spanning over 15 years. In this episode, we will explore the intricacies of the Masters in Critical Care program, discuss the integration of technology and interdisciplinary learning and examine the career opportunities that await graduates. We'll also tackle the current challenges and future trends in critical care, offering valuable advice for those considering this demanding yet rewarding field. To find out more about the University of Cardiff's online MSc in Critical Care please see here: https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/taught/courses/course/critical-care

This episode continues our series on traumatic bleeding, focusing on the use of blood transfusions in prehospital settings. While blood transfusions are life-saving for haemorrhagic shock, evidence on prehospital blood use is mixed. Civilian and military studies show improved outcomes with prehospital blood, but the 2022 RePHILL trial found no superiority over sodium chloride for trauma-related hemorrhagic shock - https://www.thebottomline.org.uk/summaries/icm/rephill/. Despite this, haemostatic resuscitation has evolved to be the standard care for bleeding-induced shock in the UK. Currently, only physicians in HEMS systems can administer prehospital blood under UK paramedic guidelines, with paramedics limited to using sodium chloride. The 2007 Manchester Arena bombing inquiry considered frontline ambulances carrying blood products but deemed it infeasible for clinical and logistical reasons. It recommended that specialist teams, such as the Hazardous Area Response Team (HART), carry freeze-dried plasma. Southwestern Ambulance Service HART has since trialed Lyoplas. This episode discusses paramedic-administered blood products outside of HEMS systems, featuring Dr. Peter Chesney, Lt. Col. (retired) Randy Shaffer, and Dr. Chesney, a pediatric emergency physician and medical director in South Florida. Lt. Col. Shaffer, a former Emergency and Trauma nurse in the U.S. Army, established prehospital programs and walking blood banks during her deployments and has since worked on regional blood coalition initiatives. Dr. Chesney, a seasoned trauma surgeon, has received numerous accolades, including the Outstanding Clinical Research Achievement Award, and co-founded the international damage control resuscitation educational program. This episode is sponsored by the International Critical Care Paramedic Group (ICCPG): The ICCPG are dedicated to advancing global Paramedicine through knowledge sharing and improved communication. Join their second conference on January 30, 2025, following the success of their 2022 event, which united over 600 paramedics worldwide. This virtual event will feature detailed case studies and in-depth clinical, training, leadership, and research discussions. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with peers and learn from international experts. For more details, contact Christian Wiggin at christian.wiggin@collegeofparamedics.co.uk This podcast is sponsored by the University of Hertfordshire. The University of Hertfordshire’s MSc Advanced Paramedic Practice offers flexible, part-time study with some online options. Students can choose between two pathways: Primary and Urgent Care or Emergency and Critical Care. The program includes modules in leadership, coaching, and independent prescribing. Expert, research-active staff with national and international profiles deliver innovative teaching using online, VR, and simulation technology. With over 25 years of heritage, the program promises excellent career prospects and opportunities for further research through Masters by research and PhDs. Please see here for further details: https://www.herts.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate-masters/msc-advanced-paramedic-practice2?utm_campaign=pg_maincycle24&utm_medium=pre_hosp_care_podcast&utm_source=podcast&utm_id=paramedic

In this episode, we will look at the innovative Walking Blood Donor program as a collaborative effort between the Canadian Armed Forces and Canadian Blood Services. This program has revolutionised the way blood is provided to troops deployed in remote and austere environments. Today's guest will take us behind the scenes, explaining how troops are pre-screened and readied to become walking blood donors. We'll delve into the intricate logistics of collecting, processing, and administering whole blood transfusions in the field. To do this I am joined by Lieutenant Colonel Andrew Beckett, MD. Andrew is a highly experienced trauma surgeon and critical care physician in the Royal Canadian Medical Services. He has served on multiple overseas military missions, providing lifesaving care in austere environments. Andrew’s research interests include massive transfusion, combat casualty data management, and military simulation training. Currently an assistant professor of surgery at McGill University, he plays a vital role in advancing battlefield medicine and ensuring optimal care for wounded soldiers. To read more on this program please see here: https://www.blood.ca/en/stories/blood-war-zones-canadas-contributions-and-ongoing-support-soldiers-who This podcast is sponsored by PAX. Whatever kind of challenge you have to face - with PAX backpacks you are well-prepared. Whether on water, on land or in the air - PAX's versatile, flexible backpacks are perfectly suitable for your requirements and can be used in the most demanding of environments. Equally, PAX bags are built for comfort and rapid access to deliver the right gear at the right time to the right patient. To see more of their innovative designed product range please click here: ⁠https://www.pax-bags.com/en/⁠ This episode is sponsored by the International Critical Care Paramedic Group (ICCPG): The ICCPG are dedicated to advancing global Paramedicine through knowledge sharing and improved communication. Join their second conference on January 30, 2025, following the success of their 2022 event, which united over 600 paramedics worldwide. This virtual event will feature detailed case studies and in-depth clinical, training, leadership, and research discussions. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with peers and learn from international experts. For more details, contact Christian Wiggin at christian.wiggin@collegeofparamedics.co.uk This podcast is sponsored by the University of Hertfordshire. The University of Hertfordshire’s MSc Advanced Paramedic Practice offers flexible, part-time study with some online options. Students can choose between two pathways: Primary and Urgent Care or Emergency and Critical Care. The program includes modules in leadership, coaching, and independent prescribing. Expert, research-active staff with national and international profiles deliver innovative teaching using online, VR, and simulation technology. With over 25 years of heritage, the program promises excellent career prospects and opportunities for further research through Masters by research and PhDs. Please see here for further details: https://www.herts.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate-masters/msc-advanced-paramedic-practice2?utm_campaign=pg_maincycle24&utm_medium=pre_hosp_care_podcast&utm_source=podcast&utm_id=paramedic

In this episode, we'll delve into the organisational culture of ambulance services; and the unwritten rules, beliefs, and behaviours that shape how we work. From KPIs to mission statements to crew room dynamics, to the disparate social work hours of pre-hospital care. We unpack the insights of what truly makes this unique workplace tick. Joining me is Carl Betts, a fellow co-host of the Pre-Hospital Care Podcast and the Quality Improvement lead for a UK Ambulance Service. We hope you find this conversation both informative and helpful. This podcast is sponsored by PAX. Whatever kind of challenge you have to face - with PAX backpacks you are well-prepared. Whether on water, on land or in the air - PAX's versatile, flexible backpacks are perfectly suitable for your requirements and can be used in the most demanding of environments. Equally, PAX bags are built for comfort and rapid access to deliver the right gear at the right time to the right patient. To see more of their innovative designed product range please click here: ⁠https://www.pax-bags.com/en/⁠ This episode is sponsored by the International Critical Care Paramedic Group (ICCPG): The ICCPG are dedicated to advancing global Paramedicine through knowledge sharing and improved communication. Join their second conference on January 30, 2025, following the success of their 2022 event, which united over 600 paramedics worldwide. This virtual event will feature detailed case studies and in-depth clinical, training, leadership, and research discussions. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with peers and learn from international experts. For more details, contact Christian Wiggin at christian.wiggin@collegeofparamedics.co.uk This podcast is sponsored by the University of Hertfordshire. The University of Hertfordshire’s MSc Advanced Paramedic Practice offers flexible, part-time study with some online options. Students can choose between two pathways: Primary and Urgent Care or Emergency and Critical Care. The program includes modules in leadership, coaching, and independent prescribing. Expert, research-active staff with national and international profiles deliver innovative teaching using online, VR, and simulation technology. With over 25 years of heritage, the program promises excellent career prospects and opportunities for further research through Masters by research and PhDs. Please see here for further details: https://www.herts.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate-masters/msc-advanced-paramedic-practice2?utm_campaign=pg_maincycle24&utm_medium=pre_hosp_care_podcast&utm_source=podcast&utm_id=paramedic

In this episode, we examine the upcoming Paramedic Norwegian Acute Stroke Prehospital Project (ParaNASPP), a stepped wedge randomised trial evaluating the use of the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) for stroke screening by paramedics in ambulances. The study aims to enhance early stroke identification and triage, potentially improving outcomes through faster, more accurate prehospital diagnosis and treatment initiation. By training paramedics to utilise the NIHSS, the project seeks to streamline the care pathway, ensuring stroke patients receive timely and appropriate care, thereby reducing the time to treatment and improving overall patient prognosis. To do this we have Dr. Maren Ranhoff with us. Maren is a consultant physician in neurology at Oslo University Hospital and an associate professor. She spearheads the Acute Brain Programme, a critical initiative aimed at enhancing neurological care. This programme is designed to streamline the entire process of neurological emergency care, from dispatch to on-scene assessment, triage, and seamless communication during patient handovers. Maren's leadership has been instrumental in fostering a multidisciplinary approach that improves patient outcomes and sets new standards in neurological emergency and pre-hospital management. In addition to her work with the Acute Brain Programme, Maren is deeply involved in stroke research and innovation. Her research focuses on developing advanced diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies to improve the treatment and recovery of stroke patients. Dr. Maren's innovative work in stroke care includes the development of rapid response protocols and the integration of cutting-edge technology to enhance the precision of stroke diagnosis and treatment. In this podcast, we will delve into the team’s remarkable achievements and the profound impact of Maren's work in the field of neurology and pre-hospital care together with the ParaNASPP study. For more information see here: ⁠https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35120559/ This podcast is sponsored by the University of Hertfordshire. The University of Hertfordshire’s MSc Advanced Paramedic Practice offers flexible, part-time study with some online options. Students can choose between two pathways: Primary and Urgent Care or Emergency and Critical Care. The program includes modules in leadership, coaching, and independent prescribing. Expert, research-active staff with national and international profiles deliver innovative teaching using online, VR, and simulation technology. With over 25 years of heritage, the program promises excellent career prospects and opportunities for further research through Masters by research and PhDs. Please see here for further details: https://www.herts.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate-masters/msc-advanced-paramedic-practice2?utm_campaign=pg_maincycle24&utm_medium=pre_hosp_care_podcast&utm_source=podcast&utm_id=paramedic

In this episode, we delve into the Ten Second Triage Tool (TST) to understand its performance in action. We explore the development and impact of the NHSE Major Incident Triage Tools (MITT & TST), designed to prioritise life-saving interventions quickly and effectively. Our guest provides insights into how these tools are transforming emergency response, training for responders, and real-world applications. Discover how these advancements are setting new standards in trauma care and emergency preparedness.   Joining us is Dr. Philip Cowburn, Consultant in Emergency Medicine, Medical Director for South Western Ambulance Service, and co-author of the new 10-second triage tool for mass casualty incidents. Phil is a consultant in Emergency Medicine working at both Trusts in Bristol and co-founded the Great Western Air Ambulance service. With over a decade of experience in ambulance service medical directorate roles, he also serves as the medical advisor for the National Ambulance Resilience Unit. Dr. Cowburn has been instrumental in implementing clinical practice changes from the Manchester Arena Inquiry recommendations and is active in the Faculty of Pre-Hospital Care in both Immediate Medical Care and Major Incident Management examinations. Here is an excellent episode from the Resus Room team on Major Incident Triage featuring Phil Cowburn: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/major-incident-triage/id1090433226?i=1000659333727 TST resources can be found here: https://naru.s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/03211731/naru-tst-non-clinical-responders-supplementary-information.pdf This podcast is sponsored by The University of Hertfordshire: The University of Hertfordshire offers both undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Paramedic Science, emphasising specialist teaching spaces, innovative simulation technology, and a dedicated paramedic teaching team. Students benefit from ambulance placements with LAS and EEAST ambulance services and the university's proximity to London and major transport links. The research-active staff, boasting national and international profiles, enhance the learning experience. The program, with over 25 years of heritage, uses cutting-edge online, VR, and simulation technology to support learning. Career prospects for graduates are excellent, with opportunities to pursue Masters by research and PhDs also available. Please see here for further details: https://www.herts.ac.uk/courses/undergraduate/paramedic-science https://www.herts.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate-masters/msc-paramedic-science-pre-reg

In this episode, we delve into The EXIT Project, an initiative founded by Tim Nutbeam and Rob Fenwick, aimed at improving spinal care, indications for spinal immobilisation and patient outcomes in road traffic incidents and other axial load injuries. The project employs scientific rigour and trial methodology to develop effective strategies for emergency medical services. By collaborating with a range of professionals, including researchers, medical practitioners, and emergency responders, The EXIT Project focuses on both research and practical applications to enhance road safety, clinical guidelines and ultimately clinical practice. Tim discusses the innovative approaches the project takes to tackle the complex challenges of post-collision care. This includes the implementation of advanced triage systems, the use of data analytics to identify patterns and improve response times, and the development of training programs for emergency personnel. The project’s findings have led to significant improvements in the way road traffic incidents are managed, ultimately saving lives and reducing the severity of injuries. Tim and Lisa also explore the broader impact of The EXIT Project's work, highlighting how their research and methodologies are being adopted by emergency services worldwide. The discussion provides insights into the importance of integrating scientific research with practical emergency response strategies, emphasising the project's role in shaping the future of road safety and emergency medical care. For more details, visit The EXIT Project. This episode is sponsored by the International Critical Care Paramedic Group (ICCPG): The ICCPG are dedicated to advancing global Paramedicine through knowledge sharing and improved communication. Join their second conference on January 30, 2025, following the success of their 2022 event, which united over 600 paramedics worldwide. This virtual event will feature detailed case studies and in-depth clinical, training, leadership, and research discussions. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with peers and learn from international experts. For more details, contact Christian Wiggin at christian.wiggin@collegeofparamedics.co.uk This podcast is sponsored by the University of Hertfordshire: The University of Hertfordshire offers both undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Paramedic Science, emphasising specialist teaching spaces, innovative simulation technology, and a dedicated paramedic teaching team. Students benefit from ambulance placements with LAS and EEAST ambulance services and the university's proximity to London and major transport links. The research-active staff, boasting national and international profiles, enhance the learning experience. The program, with over 25 years of heritage, uses cutting-edge online, VR, and simulation technology to support learning. Career prospects for graduates are excellent, with opportunities to pursue Masters by research and PhDs also available. Please see here for further details: Undergraduate Paramedic Science:  https://www.herts.ac.uk/courses/undergraduate/paramedic-science?utm_campaign=ug_maincycle24&utm_medium=pre_hosp_care_podcast&utm_source=podcast&utm_id=paramedic MSc Paramedic Science Pre-Reg:  https://www.herts.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate-masters/msc-paramedic-science-pre-reg?utm_campaign=pg_maincycle24&utm_medium=pre_hosp_care_podcast&utm_source=podcast&utm_id=paramedic

This special edition of the PHCP podcast for International Paramedic Day explores the diverse and evolving landscape of the paramedic field. Our hosts delve into the growth of roles, changes in triage systems, community engagement, interdisciplinary collaboration, technological advancements, mental health support, and future predictions. This comprehensive discussion aims to highlight the essential role of paramedics in healthcare and the continuous evolution of the profession. We hope you enjoy. More information on International Paramedics Day can be found here: https://www.internationalparamedicsday.com/ This podcast is sponsored by PAX. Whatever kind of challenge you have to face - with PAX backpacks you are well-prepared. Whether on water, on land or in the air - PAX's versatile, flexible backpacks are perfectly suitable for your requirements and can be used in the most demanding of environments. Equally, PAX bags are built for comfort and rapid access to deliver the right gear at the right time to the right patient. To see more of their innovative designed product range please click here: ⁠https://www.pax-bags.com/en/⁠ This episode is sponsored by the International Critical Care Paramedic Group (ICCPG): The ICCPG are dedicated to advancing global Paramedicine through knowledge sharing and improved communication. Join their second conference on January 30, 2025, following the success of their 2022 event, which united over 600 paramedics worldwide. This virtual event will feature detailed case studies and in-depth clinical, training, leadership, and research discussions. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with peers and learn from international experts. For more details, contact Christian Wiggin at christian.wiggin@collegeofparamedics.co.uk This podcast is sponsored by the University of Hertfordshire: The University of Hertfordshire offers both undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Paramedic Science, emphasising specialist teaching spaces, innovative simulation technology, and a dedicated paramedic teaching team. Students benefit from ambulance placements with LAS and EEAST ambulance services and the university's proximity to London and major transport links. The research-active staff, boasting national and international profiles, enhance the learning experience. The program, with over 25 years of heritage, uses cutting-edge online, VR, and simulation technology to support learning. Career prospects for graduates are excellent, with opportunities to pursue Masters by research and PhDs also available. Please see here for further details: Undergraduate Paramedic Science:  https://www.herts.ac.uk/courses/undergraduate/paramedic-science?utm_campaign=ug_maincycle24&utm_medium=pre_hosp_care_podcast&utm_source=podcast&utm_id=paramedic   MSc Paramedic Science Pre-Reg:  https://www.herts.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate-masters/msc-paramedic-science-pre-reg?utm_campaign=pg_maincycle24&utm_medium=pre_hosp_care_podcast&utm_source=podcast&utm_id=paramedic

In this conversation, we will examine and explore the anatomy of work that a Sydney HEMS Registrar sees within their time at one of the most progressive and dynamic Air Ambulance services in the southern hemisphere. We dig into the day-to-day life, the clinical governance, the case mix and indeed the debrief that occurs within the Sydney HEMS team. We also examine some of the most significant challenges that our guest has experienced as part of that team, a team that is striving to improve and foster innovation and safer patient care. To do this we have Sam Bulford with us, Sam is a Sydney HEMS Registrar and indeed the host of the Sydney HEMS debrief podcast. You can listen to the Sydney HEMS debrief podcast here: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/podcasts-greater-sydney-area-hems/id602038154 This podcast is sponsored by PAX. Whatever kind of challenge you have to face - with PAX backpacks you are well-prepared. Whether on water, on land or in the air - PAX's versatile, flexible backpacks are perfectly suitable for your requirements and can be used in the most demanding of environments. Equally, PAX bags are built for comfort and rapid access to deliver the right gear at the right time to the right patient. To see more of their innovative designed product range please click here: ⁠https://www.pax-bags.com/en/⁠ This episode is sponsored by the International Critical Care Paramedic Group (ICCPG): The ICCPG are dedicated to advancing global Paramedicine through knowledge sharing and improved communication. Join their second conference on January 30, 2025, following the success of their 2022 event, which united over 600 paramedics worldwide. This virtual event will feature detailed case studies and in-depth clinical, training, leadership, and research discussions. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with peers and learn from international experts. For more details, contact Christian Wiggin at christian.wiggin@collegeofparamedics.co.uk