

Prolonged Field Care Podcast
Dennis
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This podcast and website is dedicated to the healthcare professional who needs to provide high quality care in a very austere location.
For more content: www.prolongedfieldcare.org
Consider supporting us on: patreon.com/ProlongedFieldCareCollective
This podcast and website is dedicated to the healthcare professional who needs to provide high quality care in a very austere location.
For more content: www.prolongedfieldcare.org
Consider supporting us on: patreon.com/ProlongedFieldCareCollective
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 3, 2025 • 18min
SOMSA '25 - Countering the EW Threat
This presentation discusses the significance of electromagnetic warfare in modern military operations, particularly in the context of the ongoing war in Ukraine. It highlights the importance of understanding the electromagnetic spectrum and its implications for medical devices used in combat. A pilot study measuring the electromagnetic signatures of handheld ultrasound systems is presented, revealing that these devices have negligible signatures, which could be crucial for their deployment in forward medical care. The episode concludes with recommendations for best practices in using these medical devices in combat situations.TakeawaysThe electromagnetic spectrum is crucial in modern warfare.Electromagnetic warfare can control or attack the enemy's spectrum.Ukraine's war shows a significant uptick in electromagnetic spectrum use.Portable handheld ultrasounds are essential for advanced critical care.The electromagnetic signature of handheld ultrasounds is negligible.Best practices include minimizing the time devices are on.Electromagnetic signature measurement is vital for medical equipment procurement.No medical unit should deploy without knowing device signatures.The study found no significant difference in signatures when devices are used.Future testing is necessary to ensure safety and effectiveness.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Electromagnetic Warfare02:38 The Role of Electromagnetic Spectrum in Modern Warfare05:22 Measuring Electromagnetic Signatures of Medical Devices08:21 Pilot Study on Handheld Ultrasound Systems11:08 Results and Implications of the Study13:38 Best Practices and Future RecommendationsFor CME credit for this presentation, go to: https://specialoperationsmedicine.org/For more content, go to www.prolongedfieldcare.orgConsider supporting us: patreon.com/ProlongedFieldCareCollective or www.lobocoffeeco.com/product-page/prolonged-field-care

Sep 1, 2025 • 52min
Prolonged Field Care Podcast 245: Postpartum Hemorrhage
In this episode of the PFC Podcast, Dennis interviews Jessica, known as the Combat Midwife, who shares her extensive experience in both paramedicine and midwifery. The conversation delves into the critical issues surrounding postpartum hemorrhage, the mismanagement of obstetrics, and the importance of proper labor management. Jessica emphasizes the need for understanding the physiological process of birth and the risks associated with unnecessary interventions. She also discusses the significance of positioning during labor, the delivery of the placenta, and the risks of infection postpartum. Additionally, Jessica introduces the resources available for further education in maternal care.TakeawaysJessica is both a paramedic and a midwife.Postpartum hemorrhage is a leading cause of maternal death.Mismanagement in obstetrics often leads to complications.Birth is a natural physiological process that should not be micromanaged.Less than 10% of births require medical intervention.Proper positioning during labor is crucial for a successful delivery.The delivery of the placenta should be handled with care to avoid complications.Postpartum care is essential to prevent infections and other issues.The Combat Midwives Emergency OB Kit is designed for use in austere environments.Education and resources are available for those interested in maternal care.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Combat Midwife01:28 Understanding Postpartum Hemorrhage04:37 The Mismanagement of Obstetrics06:14 Categories of Postpartum Hemorrhage15:13 Advice for Managing Labor19:11 The Importance of Positioning During Labor21:03 Delivery of the Placenta27:34 Postpartum Care and Infection Risks36:06 Addressing Postpartum Hemorrhage and Infection45:42 The Combat Midwife's Emergency OB Kit48:41 Resources and Courses for Further LearningFor more information Connect with The Combat Midwife™:Email: ask@combatmidwife.comWebsite: https://combatmidwife.comClasses & Kits: Workshops & KitsInstagram: @CombatMidwifeYouTube: Combat Midwife on YouTubeFacebook: Combat Midwife on FacebookX: @CombatMidwifeDiscount Code for your followers: PFCFor more content, go to www.prolongedfieldcare.orgConsider supporting us: patreon.com/ProlongedFieldCareCollective or www.lobocoffeeco.com/product-page/prolonged-field-care

Aug 29, 2025 • 53min
Prolonged Field Care Podcast: Ketamine Deep Dive
In this episode of the PFC Podcast, Dennis and Kevin dive deep into the complexities of ketamine, exploring its pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, and practical applications in emergency medicine. They discuss the drug's disassociative properties, its analgesic effects, and the importance of individualized dosing based on patient physiology. The conversation also touches on the risks of catecholamine depletion and the management of side effects, particularly in trauma patients. Throughout the discussion, Kevin shares valuable insights and practical advice for medics and healthcare professionals using ketamine in real-life scenarios.TakeawaysKetamine is an NMDA receptor antagonist with various effects on the body.It can cause profound analgesia and disassociation at different doses.S-ketamine is preferred for its more intense analgesic effects and quicker recovery.Dosing should be individualized based on patient condition and physiology.Ketamine can lead to catecholamine depletion, especially in trauma patients.Smaller doses are safer for patients with compromised vital signs.Analgesic effects can be achieved without full disassociation at lower doses.Managing side effects is crucial, especially in the 'party zone' of ketamine use.Always have a plan for potential complications when using ketamine.Refer to clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) for best practices.Chapters00:00 Understanding Ketamine: Basics and Mechanisms09:17 Pharmacokinetics of Ketamine: How It Works15:58 Dosing Ketamine: Individualized Approaches25:23 Analgesic Properties of Ketamine: Beyond Disassociation31:39 Managing Side Effects: The Party Zone and Hallucinations39:19 Catecholamine Depletion: Risks and Considerations43:05 Practical Advice for Medics: Using Ketamine SafelyFor more content, go to www.prolongedfieldcare.orgConsider supporting us: patreon.com/ProlongedFieldCareCollective or www.lobocoffeeco.com/product-page/prolonged-field-care

Aug 27, 2025 • 23min
SOMSA'25 - Consideration For Maritime IW Medicine
In this episode of the PFC Podcast, Noel discusses the complexities and challenges of maritime medicine, emphasizing the importance of training, knowledge, and operational flexibility. He shares insights from his extensive experience, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the ocean and the necessity of effective communication and integration with host nation partners. Noel advocates for a focus on practical training and the need for a forward-thinking approach to tackle operational challenges in a collaborative manner.TakeawaysCourage in the absence of fear is stupidity.Training should focus on knowledge, not just equipment.The ocean's unpredictability complicates operations.Effective communication is crucial in maritime environments.Over-planning can lead to operational failures.Training is essential for operational success.Integrating with host nation partners enhances effectiveness.Technology should be a last resort solution.Operational flexibility is key in dynamic environments.A joint effort is necessary for tackling complex challenges.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Context of the Mission02:53 Challenges in Maritime Operations05:38 Operational Planning and Flexibility08:30 Communication Strategies in Maritime Environments11:15 Training and Integration with Host Nation Partners14:12 Operational Autonomy and Cross-Training16:50 Emphasizing Training Over Technology19:25 Conclusion and Call to ActionFor more content, go to www.prolongedfieldcare.orgConsider supporting us: patreon.com/ProlongedFieldCareCollective or www.lobocoffeeco.com/product-page/prolonged-field-care

Aug 25, 2025 • 1h 12min
Prolonged Field Care Podcast 244: Penetrating Neck Trauma
In this episode of the PFC Podcast, Dennis and Max discuss the evolving landscape of modern combat injuries, focusing on neck and upper chest injuries. They delve into the anatomy of the neck, the importance of understanding different zones for surgical intervention, and effective hemorrhage control techniques. The conversation emphasizes the critical role of teamwork in trauma care and the necessity of airway management in emergency situations. A case study of a traumatic incident illustrates the practical application of these concepts in real-world scenarios.Link to Video Kentucky Ballistics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1449kJKxlMQ&t=983sTakeawaysModern combat injuries have evolved, necessitating updated medical responses.Neck and upper chest injuries present unique challenges in trauma care.Understanding the anatomy of the neck is crucial for effective treatment.Zone classification helps determine surgical approaches to neck injuries.Upper extremity junctional injuries are particularly difficult to manage.Effective hemorrhage control requires teamwork and quick decision-making.Airway management is critical in trauma situations, especially with neck injuries.Hands-on techniques, such as packing and suturing, are essential skills for medics.Training and preparation are key to successful trauma interventions.Real-world case studies highlight the importance of timely medical responses.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Modern Combat Injuries02:43 Understanding Neck and Upper Chest Injuries05:38 Anatomy of the Neck: Zones and Surgical Considerations09:50 Upper Extremity Junctional Injuries15:36 Management of Hemorrhage in Neck Injuries21:37 Airway Management in Trauma26:24 Effective Hemorrhage Control Techniques30:35 The Importance of Teamwork in Trauma Care36:22 Surgical Interventions and Techniques42:25 Case Study: Kentucky Ballistics Incident48:27 Conclusion and Key TakeawaysFor more content, go to www.prolongedfieldcare.orgConsider supporting us: patreon.com/ProlongedFieldCareCollective or www.lobocoffeeco.com/product-page/prolonged-field-care

Aug 22, 2025 • 51min
Prolonged Field Care Podcast: Maggot Therapy
This podcast episode explores the innovative use of maggot therapy in wound care, discussing its historical context, benefits, and applications in various medical settings, particularly in austere environments. The conversation highlights the importance of maggot therapy as a cost-effective and efficient treatment option, especially in the face of rising antimicrobial resistance. The speakers emphasize the need for proper sourcing, preparation, and application techniques for maggot therapy, as well as the potential for integrating this method into modern medical practices.TakeawaysMaggot therapy has historical roots dating back thousands of years.Maggots effectively debride wounds and promote healing.Maggot therapy is cost-effective, especially in low-resource settings.Chronic wounds often develop biofilms that resist antibiotics; maggots can help.Maggots can be used in both chronic and acute wounds, including burns.Maggot therapy can be implemented in austere environments with proper training.Specific fly species are required for effective maggot therapy.Maggots can be sourced locally in various environments.Maggot therapy can be a sustainable alternative to antibiotics in combat situations.Documentation and sharing of experiences are crucial for advancing maggot therapy.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Maggot Therapy01:16 Historical Context of Maggot Therapy04:41 Benefits of Maggot Therapy08:39 Application in Various Wound Types11:14 Maggot Therapy in Austere Environments15:32 Sourcing and Preparing Maggots23:33 Application Techniques for Maggot Therapy29:32 Patient Management and Treatment Regimens35:06 Future of Maggot Therapy in Medicine43:51 Conclusion and Call to ActionFor more content, go to www.prolongedfieldcare.orgConsider supporting us: patreon.com/ProlongedFieldCareCollective or www.lobocoffeeco.com/product-page/prolonged-field-care

Aug 20, 2025 • 21min
SOMSA '25 - Ridge Healer Lessons Learned
In this episode of the PFC Podcast, the speaker discusses the Ridge Healer exercise, a tactical training program designed for small surgical and resuscitation teams operating in unconventional warfare environments. The conversation covers various aspects of the exercise, including operational challenges, team dynamics, communication strategies, patient care during transport, and the importance of adapting to non-battle injuries. The speaker emphasizes the need for effective decision-making, cross-training, and cultural awareness in high-stress medical situations.TakeawaysRidge Healer is a tactical training program for small teams.Decision-making is crucial in the IW environment.Surgeons should not be team leaders during operations.Communication should be clear and concise to reduce cognitive load.Medivac should focus on improving patient condition, not just transport.Hypothermia management is critical in cold environments.Non-battle injuries are common and require attention.Post-operative care is essential for patient recovery.Cultural awareness is important in military operations.Rehearsing procedures is vital for effective execution.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Ridge Healer Exercise00:52 Understanding the Ridge Healer Program02:16 Operational Challenges in IW Environment04:08 Team Dynamics and Roles06:29 Communication and Decision-Making10:17 Patient Care During Transport12:48 Managing Hypothermia and Patient Comfort15:26 Adapting to Non-Battle Injuries16:52 Post-Operative Care and Monitoring19:12 Basic Soldiering Skills and Cultural AwarenessFor more content, go to www.prolongedfieldcare.orgConsider supporting us: patreon.com/ProlongedFieldCareCollective or www.lobocoffeeco.com/product-page/prolonged-field-care

Aug 18, 2025 • 55min
Prolonged Field Care Podcast 243: Forced Vital Capacity and Lung Injury
In this episode of the PFC Podcast, Dennis and Alex delve into the topic of forced vital capacity in the context of chest trauma. They discuss a research paper that explores the assessment of forced vital capacity for risk stratification of blunt chest trauma patients in emergency settings. The conversation covers the importance of understanding chest wall injuries, clinical guidelines for treatment, challenges in diagnosing rib fractures, and the implications of the study's findings on patient outcomes and resource allocation in military medicine.TakeawaysForced vital capacity is crucial for assessing chest trauma.Chest wall injuries can significantly impact patient outcomes.Pain management is a key component of treatment strategies.Clinical guidelines help in managing chest injuries effectively.Risk stratification is essential for resource allocation in trauma care.The study highlights the importance of forced vital capacity measurements.Understanding patient dispositions is vital in emergency settings.Challenges exist in diagnosing rib fractures in the field.The study's methodology raises questions about its applicability.Future research is needed to refine treatment approaches for chest trauma.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:30 Exploring Forced Vital Capacity02:02 Understanding Chest Trauma04:56 The Importance of Chest Wall Injuries08:37 Clinical Guidelines and Treatment Algorithms10:21 Challenges in Diagnosing Rib Fractures12:33 Pain Management and Treatment Strategies16:25 Dispositions and Resource Allocation19:02 Risk Stratification in Chest Injuries22:39 Forced Vital Capacity and Its Relevance27:16 Study Overview and Methodology32:29 Outcomes and Implications of the Study36:41 Critical Analysis of the Research46:38 Reflections on the Study's Impact52:12 Conclusion and Future DirectionsFor more content, go to www.prolongedfieldcare.orgConsider supporting us: patreon.com/ProlongedFieldCareCollective or www.lobocoffeeco.com/product-page/prolonged-field-care

Aug 15, 2025 • 38min
Prolonged Field Care Podcast: Sedation in PFC
Discover the critical importance of patient safety and comfort in emergency sedation practices. The hosts delve into decision-making processes for administering sedatives and the specific roles of medications like midazolam and propofol. They emphasize the need for daily sedation wake-up trials and the management of over-sedation through standardized communication methods. Additionally, learn how balancing sedation can minimize PTSD risks while ensuring effective patient assessments, all while keeping the top priority: keeping the patient alive.

Aug 13, 2025 • 26min
SOMSA '25 - Sustaining Distributed Medics In A Denied Environment
This podcast episode discusses the challenges and strategies for sustaining distributed medics in denied environments, focusing on unconventional warfare and the importance of medical support as a force multiplier. It explores historical lessons from World War II, modern resupply techniques, and innovative delivery systems for medical supplies, emphasizing the need for sustainability and recycling in medical logistics.TakeawaysMedical is not the mission; it supports the mission.Medical support is crucial for building resistance forces.Unconventional warfare requires strong medical logistics training.Historical lessons from World War II can inform modern strategies.Innovative delivery systems are essential for medical supplies.Sustainability in medical logistics is critical for long-term operations.Combat feeding is important for maintaining troop health.Recycling medical supplies can extend operational capabilities.Advanced manufacturing could revolutionize medical supply chains.Understanding the environment is key to effective resupply.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Distributed Medics in Denied Environments02:52 Understanding Unconventional Warfare and Medical Support05:44 Planning Considerations for Unconventional Warfare Resupply08:29 Historical Context: Lessons from World War II11:49 Modern Techniques and Technologies for Resupply14:36 Innovative Delivery Systems for Medical Supplies17:33 Future of Medical Logistics in Combat20:32 Sustainability and Resource Management in WarfareFor more content, go to www.prolongedfieldcare.orgConsider supporting us: patreon.com/ProlongedFieldCareCollective or www.lobocoffeeco.com/product-page/prolonged-field-care