Prolonged Field Care Podcast

In today's episode, we're diving into the topic of tourniquet conversion. With conflicts happening globally, it's crucial to understand the difference between tourniquet conversion and replacement. Conversion means finding an alternative to control bleeding when the tourniquet is no longer needed. Replacement involves swapping a tourniquet for a more effective one. Conversion timing depends on the tactical situation and patient's resuscitation status. You should consider resuscitating the patient before converting, ensuring they're warm, non-coagulopathic, and ideally have a systolic blood pressure above 90. Science-wise, the two-hour rule may have originated from studies in cooler environments. Converting tourniquets in austere settings requires confidence and proper patient assessment. Crush syndrome, re-bleeding, and metabolic changes can be concerns when converting tourniquets. Use bicarb cautiously to mitigate potential acidosis. Calcium can also help, but pay attention to the specific calcium source and dosing. The goal is to save lives while minimizing limb loss. 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

Today, we're diving into the crucial topic of medical contingency planning. Evan and I discuss the importance of planning for medical emergencies in various scenarios, emphasizing that timely evacuation is often more effective than improvised solutions. We stress the significance of conducting thorough risk assessments, considering factors like location, climate, endemic diseases, and enemy threats. It's essential to evaluate local healthcare resources and potential evacuation options, even in remote areas. We debunk the idea of one-size-fits-all pace plans, emphasizing that planning should be proportionate to the situation's criticality. We also highlight the need for rehearsals and practical evaluations to uncover plan weaknesses. Lastly, we advise against overloading aid bags with unnecessary supplies, and we stress the importance of adapting to the circumstances, keeping in mind that helicopters may not always be available. Remember, preparation is key, and flexibility is vital in ensuring the success of your medical contingency plans. 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

Various military medics discuss the role of Special Operations Forces (SOF) medics, emphasizing their training and responsibilities. They highlight the extensive training and medical capabilities of SOF medics in austere environments with limited resources. The importance of trust between providers and medics, wound care and procedural sedation skills, and supporting and advocating for SOF medics are also discussed.

In this podcast, Dennis discusses cold weather injuries, particularly frostbite and non-freezing cold injuries like trench foot. He highlights their historical significance, citing examples from military campaigns. Prevention is emphasized, including proper clothing, buddy checks, and staying hydrated. Dennis explains the stages of frostbite, the importance of rapid rewarming, and the risks of refreezing or overheating. He also mentions the Kachi classification system to assess severity. Antibiotics aren't used prophylactically, and debridement is avoided. Dennis concludes by stressing the need for prompt treatment and staying vigilant for symptoms, especially in cold, wet conditions. 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

Dennis welcomes his friend Pac to discuss S-Ketamine. Pac, an anesthetist with extensive experience, shares insights on using S-Ketamine in various medical settings. He highlights its potential advantages, such as improved analgesia and reduced hallucinogenic effects in mid-doses. They discuss its use in austere environments, especially during military operations, and Pac emphasizes the importance of adapting dosages based on transportation methods and patient conditions. They touch on the role of ketamine in managing seizures, refractory seizures, and its potential benefits for asthmatic patients. The podcast provides valuable insights into ketamine's applications in medical care. 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

Welcome back to the PFC Podcast. Mark and I chat about feeding the critically ill. Now, look, when you're done stitching folks up and pumping them with antibiotics, there's a point you'll need to feed them. Mark shed light on how crucial nutrition is, whether you're in a remote outpost or a high-end trauma center. Nutrition aids in healing, plain and simple. We dove into the nitty-gritty – feeding patients with head injuries, burns, and other nasty stuff. And hey, feeding ain't just about the belly. Got a tube? Use it wisely. Remember, everything we do has its ups and downs. But, here's the deal, the human body, is just trying to get back to square one. Lastly, be mindful of that re-feeding syndrome - it's nasty. Bottom line? Understand your patient, feed smartly, and keep learning. 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

Join a paramedic legend as they navigate the unpredictable challenges of mountain rescue. Discover the importance of meticulous preparation and the surprising limitations of space blankets. Learn essential skills to avoid common pitfalls and the value of adaptable gear. Explore training paths that elevate rescue teams and hear critical insights on addressing hypothermia. Gain awareness of how mountain weather can impact operations, along with unique approaches to prolonged field care in austere environments.

Today, on the PFC Podcast, we dived deep into altitude illness with the experienced Dr. Moon from Duke University and Patrick O'Boyle, a senior medical instructor. Dr. Moon's been to Everest Base Camp, studies altitude physiology, and works with the Navy. He shared that altitude illness, including symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and insomnia, is not fully understood. The dangerous forms like cerebral edema (brain swelling) and pulmonary edema (fluid in lungs) can be deadly. Rapid altitude changes and the body's reaction to lowered oxygen levels play a role. If you're feeling symptoms, descend ASAP and administer oxygen if possible. And folks, while some meds can help, the real gold standard is descending and getting to a safer altitude. That's altitude illness in a nutshell. 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

Here's the lowdown from the PFC Podcast episode 150 with Dennis and Alex, diving into ETCO2. Dennis chats with Alex, who's had a colorful career, from being a 68 Whiskey and a paramedic to now working with Massimo. They discuss the Emma capnograph, a handy gadget that monitors exhaled CO2. It's essential to keep everything sealed, or the readings might be off. The device runs on batteries with different lifespans, depending on the type. Calibration? It's a must, but hold the buttons longer than feels right, or you might mess it up. This tool can be a lifesaver, giving insights into cardiac output and more. Just remember, if you're seeing weird numbers, there might be leaks or other issues. It's a nifty piece of kit but, like all tools, make sure you familiarize yourself with it outside of emergencies. 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

Bryce joined the podcast to share insights on training non-medics. Why bother? Well, Bryce emphasized the value of cross-training within teams. While it's not always easy to motivate folks to grasp medical tasks, it's a lifesaver. Literally. The key? Make it competitive! And remember, it's not just about the skills, but the trust built within the team. If teammates can handle tasks without needing constant supervision, it makes everyone more effective. But, it's not just about having a skill; understanding the 'why' is crucial. Bryce's advice to new medics? Be good at your job, and immerse yourself in continuous learning. Get out of the office and train. It's all about being proactive and ensuring everyone's prepared for any situation. 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