

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 10, 2025 • 12min
SOMSA '25 - Medical Training In NATO SOFCOM
 This podcast episode features Mike Hetzler discussing NATO's training programs focused on medical support in irregular warfare. He outlines two primary courses: the Advanced Surgical Training Course and the Advanced Medical Concepts Course, emphasizing the need for tailored training to meet the diverse requirements of European nations. The discussion highlights the importance of tactical decision-making, understanding local medical traditions, and preparing for guerrilla warfare scenarios.TakeawaysNATO training programs are tailored to specific national needs.The Advanced Surgical Training Course focuses on tactical decision-making.Understanding local medical traditions is crucial for effective training.The Advanced Medical Concepts Course emphasizes concept understanding over skills training.Rehabilitation is a key focus in medical training for guerrilla warfare.Ultrasound is identified as a critical piece of equipment for medics.Training includes live tissue and cadaver lab work for practical experience.Students are encouraged to adapt training to their nation's specific requirements.The importance of minimizing kit for operational effectiveness is emphasized.Instructors are selected for both expertise and personality to enhance learning. Chapters00:00 Introduction to NATO Training Programs03:02 Advanced Surgical Training Course Overview05:53 Advanced Medical Concepts Course08:42 Guerrilla Warfare Medical Support TrainingFor 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 8, 2025 • 57min
Prolonged Field Care Podcast 246: Maritime IW Medicine Deep Dive
 In this episode of the PFC Podcast, Dennis and Noel discuss the complexities of maritime irregular warfare, drawing on historical insights and personal experiences. They explore the challenges faced in maritime operations, the importance of experience, and the role of innovation and technology in modern warfare. The conversation emphasizes the need for effective communication within command structures and the necessity of preparing the next generation for the unique challenges of maritime IW.TakeawaysThe podcast serves as a platform for storytelling and knowledge sharing.Historical insights can provide valuable lessons for current operational challenges.Maritime operations face unique unpredictability due to environmental factors.Experience is crucial in adapting to the complexities of maritime warfare.Effective turnover processes are essential for operational continuity.Innovation should be preemptive rather than reactive during conflicts.Morale significantly impacts operational effectiveness in combat situations.Training and iteration are key to identifying gaps in capabilities.Good decision-making requires a combination of intelligence, knowledge, and context.Honesty in reporting and communication is vital for future improvements.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Maritime Irregular Warfare00:56 Historical Insights and Lessons Learned03:51 Challenges of Maritime Operations09:15 The Role of Experience in Maritime Warfare11:58 Innovation and Technology in Warfare17:43 Communication and Command Structure26:41 Preparing the Next Generation for Maritime IWFor more content, go to www.prolongedfieldcare.orgConsider supporting us: patreon.com/ProlongedFieldCareCollective or www.lobocoffeeco.com/product-page/prolonged-field-care 

Sep 5, 2025 • 34min
Prolonged Field Care Podcast: Ukrainian MEDEVAC
 In this episode of the PFC Podcast, Mikola, a self-medic from a special forces unit, shares his experiences and challenges faced in the medical field during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He discusses the complexities of medical evacuation processes, the importance of stabilization points, and the evolving threats posed by enemy tactics, particularly the use of drones. The conversation highlights the need for adaptability, thorough planning, and continuous training to ensure effective medical care in combat situations.TakeawaysThe frontline in Ukraine is over 3,600 kilometers long.Medical evacuation processes are complex and vary by region.Stabilization points are crucial but often under-resourced and dangerous.Drones have changed the dynamics of medical care on the battlefield.Planning for medical missions must include contingencies for facility destruction.Training and supply challenges are ongoing issues for medics.The use of armored transport is essential for casualty evacuation.Communication and teamwork are vital in high-stress environments.Casualty numbers can fluctuate dramatically based on enemy activity.Anticipating enemy tactics is crucial for medics' safety. Chapters00:00 Introduction to the PFC Podcast00:55 Challenges Faced by Medics in Ukraine06:43 Medical Evacuation Processes Explained12:01 The Role of Stabilization Points17:59 Adapting to Evolving Threats22:50 Training and Supply Challenges28:55 Conclusion and Reflections on Combat MedicineFor more content, go to www.prolongedfieldcare.orgConsider supporting us: patreon.com/ProlongedFieldCareCollective or www.lobocoffeeco.com/product-page/prolonged-field-care 

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 


