Heavy Lies the Helmet

Mechanical ventilation doesn't have to feel like wizardry. In this podcast episode, we strip it back to what really matters—simple mental models, clean decision-making, and an approach that works whether you're in the back of a helicopter, a tight ambulance box, or a chaotic ED bay. We walk through the foundational concepts and the "why" behind each knob you touch. Then we zoom in on the Hamilton T1, the vent many of us love, hate, and still rely on every single shift. We cover what the T1 gets right, where people get tripped up, and how to let the machine work with you instead of against you. If you've ever wished mechanical ventilation felt less like memorizing settings and more like understanding physiology in motion, this episode will tighten up your practice and give you tools you can use on your very next flight or transport. Get CE hours for our podcast episodes HERE! -------------------------------------------- X @heavyhelmet Facebook @heavyliesthehelmet Instagram @heavyliesthehelmet Website heavyliesthehelmet.com Email contact@heavyliesthehelmet.com Disclaimer: Heavy Lies the Helmet's content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always follow local guidelines and consult qualified professionals before applying any information. The hosts and guests are not responsible for errors, omissions, or outcomes. Views expressed are their own and do not reflect their employers or affiliates. -------------------------------------------- Crystals VIP by From The Dust | https://soundcloud.com/ftdmusic Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Melody Bishop, a critical care respiratory clinician, shares her expertise on mechanical ventilation. She simplifies complex concepts, emphasizing the importance of understanding respiratory physiology over memorizing settings. The discussion covers the Hamilton T1 ventilator, the myth about positive pressure and pulmonary emboli, and the role of PEEP in lung recruitment. Melody also touches on the significance of individualized ventilator settings and the cardiovascular impacts of positive pressure. It's a practical guide for clinicians seeking to enhance patient care.

Tracheostomies are increasingly common in both prehospital and critical care transport settings, but they come with unique challenges. In this podcast episode, we break down short-term and long-term complications you may encounter, and how to troubleshoot them in high-stakes environments. From occlusions and dislodgements to bleeding, we'll cover practical strategies to keep these vulnerable patients safe. Whether you're new to airway management or a seasoned clinician, this discussion will sharpen your approach to one of the most intimidating airways you'll encounter. Get CE hours for our podcast episodes HERE! -------------------------------------------- Twitter @heavyhelmet Facebook @heavyliesthehelmet Instagram @heavyliesthehelmet Website heavyliesthehelmet.com Email contact@heavyliesthehelmet.com Disclaimer: Heavy Lies the Helmet's content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always follow local guidelines and consult qualified professionals before applying any information. The hosts and guests are not responsible for errors, omissions, or outcomes. Views expressed are their own and do not reflect their employers or affiliates. -------------------------------------------- Crystals VIP by From The Dust | https://soundcloud.com/ftdmusic Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Brett Weiner, a flight paramedic and chief training officer at Anyone Not Ready, and Dr. Tim Hurtado, an emergency physician and EMS director, tackle the challenges of prolonged field care in critical situations. They discuss the adaptability required when faced with resource limitations and the importance of realistic training. The conversation highlights their innovative new course aimed at preparing medical professionals for real-life emergencies, using simulated patients to enhance learning. Proactive patient care and effective decision-making strategies are key themes.

Discover the compelling world of Tranexamic Acid (TXA), a medication likened to hot sauce for its wide application in trauma care. Delve into the controversies surrounding TXA's use, from its mechanism of action to its critical role in stopping bleeding. Timing is key; learn why administering TXA within the first hour can make all the difference. Explore the unique challenges of pediatric emergency care and hear gripping real-life stories from the ER that highlight the urgent need for effective interventions.

Mike Carunchio, a medic and host of The World's Okayest Medic Podcast, dives deep into the controversies surrounding opinion-based medicine. He challenges the effectiveness of mobile stroke units in urban settings and questions the necessity of specialized pediatric transport teams. The discussion also tackles fluid management choices, particularly the benefits of lactated Ringer's over saline. Plus, Carunchio sheds light on the complexities of sedation-only intubation and the intricate role social media plays in maintaining EMS credibility.

Nate Brown, a neonatal and pediatric specialist focused on respiratory distress, shares critical insights for managing pediatric emergencies. He breaks down the complexities of conditions like croup, bronchiolitis, and asthma, emphasizing timely interventions and systematic approaches. The conversation covers the importance of clear communication, innovative strategies to reduce anxiety during treatment, and the challenges healthcare professionals face in critical care settings. Brown also highlights the unique factors in pediatric responses, making it a must-listen for those in the medical field.

'Tis the season for trauma. (If there truly is a season.) Chest trauma, specifically, can vary in subtlety and severity, primarily due to the presence of multiple vital organs and vessels. In this podcast, we discuss these potentials while focusing on those injuries that are associated with the highest mortality rate. We also discuss why you should think twice before intervening. Get CE hours for our podcast episodes HERE! -------------------------------------------- Twitter @heavyhelmet Facebook @heavyliesthehelmet Instagram @heavyliesthehelmet Website heavyliesthehelmet.com Email contact@heavyliesthehelmet.com Disclaimer: Heavy Lies the Helmet's content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always follow local guidelines and consult qualified professionals before applying any information. The hosts and guests are not responsible for errors, omissions, or outcomes. Views expressed are their own and do not reflect their employers or affiliates. -------------------------------------------- Crystals VIP by From The Dust | https://soundcloud.com/ftdmusic Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Explore the complexities of diagnosing Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome, a condition often missed in critical care. Discover the nuances of hypertension management and how vital it is to communicate effectively with patients. Learn about advanced imaging techniques, especially MRI, in pinpointing neurological issues. The hosts share valuable insights from their experiences and discuss the interplay of ventilator settings for critically ill patients, all while weaving in personal anecdotes to make the medical journey relatable.

The debate over whether certifications truly reflect qualifications takes center stage, sparking thoughts on the real-world experiences that shape medical professionals. Personal stories reveal the gap between academic success and practical skills, underscoring the importance of embracing failure as a learning tool in high-stakes environments. Mentorship and continuous learning emerge as essential themes for bridging experience gaps and enhancing patient care, highlighting the dynamic journey of medical emergency service professionals.