
Prolonged Field Care Podcast
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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
Latest episodes

Jan 8, 2025 • 2min
Everyone gets a prize? PFC Podcast 211: Training Scars
Patients die...That's a fact of life, but how do you train for that without crushing the medics' confidence?
Link to full podcast: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/dennis3211/episodes/Prolonged-Field-Care-Podcast-211-Training-Scars-e2sq2n3

Jan 7, 2025 • 4min
How to conduct an AAR. PFC Podcast 211: Training Scars
Mastering the art of an After Action Review (AAR) can be challenging. The discussion highlights effective feedback techniques, stressing the importance of clarity and structure. Immediate, action-focused feedback is essential in instructional settings. Leadership plays a crucial role in providing concise resolutions and defined purposes for feedback. Discover the right and wrong approaches to giving constructive criticism that can significantly enhance team performance.

Jan 6, 2025 • 4min
Adjusting to your students. PFC Podcast 211: Training Scars
All students are different and need different approaches to get them were they need to be.
Link to full podcast: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/dennis3211/episodes/Prolonged-Field-Care-Podcast-211-Training-Scars-e2sq2n3

Jan 6, 2025 • 1h 7min
Prolonged Field Care Podcast 211: Training Scars
Welcome Back...Let's kick 2025 off with another training discussion.
In this conversation, Dennis and John discuss the current state of medical training, particularly in military contexts. They explore the shortcomings of existing training methodologies, emphasizing the need for a foundational knowledge base and a structured approach to skill acquisition. John introduces the concept of cognitive load theory and advocates for a gradual progression in training stressors to enhance learning outcomes. The discussion also touches on cultural challenges within training environments and the importance of engaging experienced learners effectively. In this conversation, Dennis discusses the intricacies of training in operational medicine, emphasizing the importance of establishing a solid training framework, the need for skill development, and the role of effective instructors. He highlights the significance of providing immediate and actionable feedback to build confidence in trainees while avoiding no-win scenarios that can negatively impact learning. The discussion also touches on the cultural aspects of training and the necessity for instructors to adapt their methods based on the audience's experience and needs.
Link to Paper: https://nextgencombatmedic.com/2024/09/16/a-lost-opportunity/
Takeaways
Training needs a refocus on foundational knowledge.
Skill atrophy occurs quickly without regular practice.
Repetition is crucial for skill mastery in medical training.
Cognitive load theory helps optimize training effectiveness.
Gradual progression in stress is essential for learning.
Cultural issues can hinder effective training.
Experienced learners require different engagement strategies.
Training should have clear objectives and outcomes.
Effective training must balance quality and quantity of practice.
Understanding the audience is key to successful instruction. Establish a clear training framework to guide instruction.
Skill development should be prioritized over complex scenarios.
Instructors must adapt their teaching methods based on audience experience.
Immediate feedback is crucial for effective learning.
Avoid no-win scenarios that can demoralize trainees.
Confidence building is a key goal of training.
Cultural issues can impact training effectiveness.
Deliberate practice is essential for instructor improvement.
Training scenarios should be relevant and realistic.
Instructors should focus on actionable feedback to enhance learning.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Training Philosophy
05:09 Identifying Issues in Current Training Methods
09:52 The Importance of Foundational Knowledge
15:11 Cognitive Load Theory in Training
19:55 Gradual Progression in Stress Training
24:53 Cultural Challenges in Training
29:48 Engaging Experienced Learners
33:46 Establishing a Training Framework
39:46 The Importance of Skill Development
44:50 Creating Effective Instructors
50:39 Feedback and Confidence Building
58:12 Avoiding No-Win Scenarios in Training

Jan 5, 2025 • 4min
What are we doing wrong? PFC Podcast 211: Training Scars
What are we doing wrong with medical scenarios? Dennis chats with Jon from Next Generation Combat Medics on Training Scars.
Link to full podcast: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/dennis3211/episodes/Prolonged-Field-Care-Podcast-211-Training-Scars-e2sq2n3

Jan 1, 2025 • 1h 31min
Top 10 Podcast 0f 2024: #1 Pelvic Injury
In this episode of the PFC Podcast, Dennis and Alex discuss the complexities of trauma surgery, particularly focusing on pelvic injuries and the use of pelvic binders. They explore the subjective nature of truth in medical practice, the importance of research and evidence in trauma care, and the anatomy and physiology related to pelvic injuries. The conversation delves into injury patterns, damage control surgery, and the challenges faced in operational environments. They also engage in a debate about the efficacy of pelvic binders, weighing the evidence and risks involved in their use during trauma care. In this conversation, Dennis discusses the critical importance of evidence-based practice in combat medicine, particularly regarding the use of pelvic binders. He emphasizes the need for medical professionals to understand the nuances of pelvic injuries, especially in a combat environment, and how these injuries differ from civilian cases. The discussion also covers the structured approach to prolonged field care, the management of blood transfusions, and the challenges of imaging in trauma assessment. Dennis advocates for clinical decision-making that prioritizes patient safety and effective care, while also acknowledging the emotional weight of these decisions in high-stakes environments.
Takeaways
Truth is subjective and varies by perception.
Disagreement in medical practice can lead to better patient care.
Understanding research quality is crucial in medical decisions.
Venous bleeding is more common in pelvic injuries than arterial.
Damage control surgery involves multiple phases of patient management.
Operational environments present unique challenges for trauma care.
Pelvic binders are debated in their effectiveness and necessity.
Surgical decision-making requires weighing risks and benefits.
Evidence-based medicine is essential but often lacking in operational settings.
The role of pelvic binders in trauma care remains contentious. Evidence is crucial in medical practice to avoid misinformation.
Dismounted IED blasts result in unique injury patterns.
Understanding research and statistics is essential for medical professionals.
Pelvic binders may not always be beneficial in every injury case.
Timely blood transfusions are critical in managing trauma patients.
Imaging plays a vital role in assessing pelvic injuries.
Clinical decision-making should be based on patient stability and evidence.
Prolonged field care requires a structured approach to patient management.
Team collaboration is essential in making difficult medical decisions.
Continuous education and training are vital for operational medics.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest
02:58 Understanding Trauma Surgery and Pelvic Injuries
06:13 Research and Evidence in Trauma Care
09:06 Anatomy and Physiology of Pelvic Injuries
12:04 Injury Patterns and Their Implications
14:53 Damage Control Surgery and Patient Management
17:48 Operational Environment Challenges
21:03 The Role of Pelvic Binders in Trauma Care
23:52 Debate on Pelvic Binders and Evidence
26:51 Surgical Decision Making in Trauma
29:47 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
45:19 The Importance of Evidence in Medical Practice
52:34 Understanding Pelvic Injuries in Combat
53:59 Prolonged Field Care: A Structured Approach
01:00:03 Managing Blood Transfusions in Critical Care
01:10:06 The Role of Imaging in Trauma Assessment
01:18:00 Clinical Decision-Making in Prolonged Field Care
For more content go to www.prolongedfieldcare.org
Consider supporting us: patreon.com/ProlongedFieldCareCollective or www.lobocoffeeco.com/product-page/prolonged-field-care

Dec 30, 2024 • 45min
Top 10 Podcast 0f 2024: #2 Why your Medics Suck
Here's another great podcast from early '24. This was a great presentation at SOMSA 24 and finished the year at #2.
This podcast episode discusses the challenges and trends in Special Operations Medicine, focusing on the training and evaluation of medics. The speakers share insights from their experiences at the Joint Special Operations Medical Training Center, highlighting the importance of regular training, data collection, and critical thinking in medical scenarios. They also address common challenges faced by medics, including equipment access and the need for realistic training feedback. The episode concludes with recommendations for improving medic training at the unit level.
Takeaways
Not all medics are underperforming, but some are.
Regular training significantly improves medic performance.
Data collection is essential for understanding training outcomes.
Critical thinking is crucial in medical scenarios.
Pass rates indicate the effectiveness of training programs.
Equipment access is a major challenge for medics.
Feedback during training is vital for skill improvement.
Units that conduct regular medical training perform better.
Understanding drug administration is critical for medics.
More robust training at the unit level is necessary.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Special Operations Medicine
03:17 Understanding Medic Training and Trends
06:37 Overview of Sustainment Courses
10:51 Evaluating Medic Proficiency
15:42 Pass Rates and Observations
19:05 Identifying Common Medic Challenges
25:40 Equipment and Training Gaps
31:57 Recommendations for Improved Training
37:20 Closing Remarks and Future Directions
For more content go to www.prolongedfieldcare.org
Consider supporting us: patreon.com/ProlongedFieldCareCollective or www.lobocoffeeco.com/product-page/prolonged-field-care

Dec 28, 2024 • 52min
Top 10 Podcast 0f 2024: #3 Crush Syndrome
Here's another great podcast from early '24. This was a great conversation and finished the year at #3.
In this episode of the PFC podcast, Dennis and Doug delve into the complexities of crush syndrome, discussing the importance of scene safety, initial assessment, and the management of casualties in dynamic environments. They explore the application of tourniquets, fluid resuscitation strategies, and the monitoring of potential complications such as reperfusion injury and electrolyte imbalances. The conversation emphasizes the need for a structured approach to treatment, including the use of sodium bicarbonate and calcium, as well as the critical role of wound management and antibiotics in ensuring positive patient outcomes.
Takeaways
Scene safety is crucial for rescuers.
Crush syndrome patients may have multiple traumatic injuries.
Tourniquets should be applied before freeing the casualty.
Fluid resuscitation is essential for managing crush syndrome.
Monitoring for complications is vital after initial treatment.
Reperfusion injury can occur hours after the event.
Electrolyte imbalances, especially potassium, must be managed.
Sodium bicarbonate can help stabilize patients in shock.
Calcium administration is important for cardiac stability.
Wound management and antibiotics are key in crush injuries.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Crush Syndrome
02:50 Scene Safety in Dynamic Environments
05:55 Initial Assessment and Triage
09:01 Tourniquet Application and Management
12:08 Fluid Resuscitation Strategies
15:00 Monitoring and Managing Complications
18:10 Reperfusion Injury and Its Implications
20:48 Electrolyte Management in Crush Syndrome
23:55 Sodium Bicarbonate and Calcium Administration
27:10 Wound Management and Antibiotic Use
30:04 Final Thoughts and Summary
Thank you to Delta Development Team for in part, sponsoring this podcast.
deltadevteam.com
For more content go to www.prolongedfieldcare.org
Consider supporting us: patreon.com/ProlongedFieldCareCollective or www.lobocoffeeco.com/product-page/prolonged-field-care

Dec 27, 2024 • 55min
Top 10 Podcast 0f 2024: #4 Chest Trauma
Here's another great podcast from early '24. This was a great conversation and finished the year at #4.
In this episode of the PFC Podcast, Dennis and John delve into the complexities of chest trauma management, discussing the appropriate use of chest seals, the importance of blood resuscitation, and the nuances of various medical interventions such as needle decompression and finger thoracotomy. They also explore the need for a revised approach to the March algorithm, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing hemorrhage control over other interventions. The conversation highlights the evolving nature of trauma care and the necessity for continuous improvement in medical protocols.
Takeaways
Chest seals can be overused and may cause harm.
Assessing the need for a chest seal is crucial.
Blood resuscitation may take precedence over chest interventions.
The March algorithm may need reevaluation based on current data.
Finger thoracotomy should be a more widely taught skill.
Needle decompression has varying success rates and may not be the best first option.
The timing of interventions can significantly impact patient outcomes.
Training should reflect real-world scenarios and not just theoretical protocols.
Understanding the nuances of chest trauma is essential for effective treatment.
Continuous updates to medical guidelines are necessary for optimal care.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Chest Trauma Management
01:47 Understanding Chest Seals and Their Use
06:34 The Debate on Chest Seal Application
10:50 Reassessing the March Algorithm
12:49 The Role of Blood Resuscitation in Trauma
21:36 Exploring Needle Decompression and Finger Thoracotomy
32:51 Managing Hemothorax and Pneumothorax
43:58 Revamping the Chest Management Algorithm
Thank you to Delta Development Team for in part, sponsoring this podcast.
deltadevteam.com
For more content go to www.prolongedfieldcare.org
Consider supporting us: patreon.com/ProlongedFieldCareCollective or www.lobocoffeeco.com/product-page/prolonged-field-care

Dec 25, 2024 • 42min
Top 10 Podcast 0f 2024: #5 Calcium and Trauma
Here's another great podcast from early '24. This was a great conversation and finished the year at #5.
In this episode of the PFC Podcast, Dennis interviews Steve Schauer, an active duty lieutenant colonel in the US Army, about his research on calcium levels in trauma patients. They discuss the significance of calcium in trauma care, the challenges of conducting research in military settings, and the methodology of their study. Steve shares insights on the correlation between calcium derangements and patient outcomes, the importance of data collection, and the implications for trauma care practices. The conversation also touches on the prioritization of interventions in trauma situations and the evolving nature of medical practices.TakeawaysCalcium levels are critical in trauma care.The study aims to assess calcium derangements in trauma patients.There are significant differences between military and civilian trauma.Injury severity scores may not accurately reflect military trauma.Pre-hospital care can impact calcium levels upon arrival.Data collection is complex but essential for accurate results.Calcium administration should be approached cautiously.TXA is prioritized after blood in trauma interventions.Future research will provide more insights into calcium's role.Medical practices are constantly evolving based on new research.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Calcium Study in Trauma02:49 Understanding Calcium's Role in Trauma05:54 Challenges in Trauma Research09:05 Data Collection and Methodology11:50 Calcium Levels and Patient Outcomes15:00 Retrospective Data Insights18:02 Calcium Administration in Trauma Care20:55 Prioritizing Interventions in Trauma24:13 Future Research Directions27:06 Conclusion and Future InsightsThank you to Delta Development Team for in part, sponsoring this podcast.
deltadevteam.com
For more content go to www.prolongedfieldcare.org
Consider supporting us: patreon.com/ProlongedFieldCareCollective or www.lobocoffeeco.com/product-page/prolonged-field-care