

Alert Medic 1
Alert Medic 1
Alert Medic 1 is a podcast developed by EMS professionals with strict physician oversight focused on educating EMS providers on all aspects of the sciences and medicine. We accomplish our goal through blog entries, case studies, video lectures, and social media interaction. We encourage and welcome health care providers of all backgrounds to join in our discussion.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 13, 2025 • 1h 30min
Management of the Head-Injured Patient w/ Deborah M. Stein, MD, MPH
Summary generated by Riverside AISummaryIn this episode, Mustafa sits down with Dr. Deb Stein, a trauma surgeon and neurointensivist, discusses her unique pathway in trauma surgery, emphasizing the importance of collaborative care in managing patients with brain injuries. She explains the complexities of brain anatomy, the Monroe-Kelly doctrine, and the significance of cerebral perfusion pressure. The discussion also covers the types of brain injuries, pre-hospital management strategies, and the critical roles of oxygenation, blood pressure management, and temperature regulation in patient outcomes. Dr. Stein highlights the need for improved engineering solutions in medical equipment, particularly cervical collars, to enhance patient care. This conversation delves into the complexities of managing traumatic brain injuries, focusing on seizure prophylaxis, hyperosmolar therapy, and surgical interventions like decompressive craniectomy. The discussion also highlights the emotional toll on healthcare providers and families, the challenges of prognostication, and the future of head injury management, emphasizing the importance of patient-centered care and the potential of technology in preventing injuries.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Dr. Deb Stein03:08 Unique Pathways in Trauma Surgery05:32 The Role of Trauma Surgeons in Patient Care08:25 Understanding Brain Anatomy and Function11:10 The Monroe-Kelly Doctrine Explained14:09 Cerebral Perfusion Pressure and Its Importance16:54 Primary vs. Secondary Brain Injury20:17 Management of Head Injuries in Pre-Hospital Settings23:02 Airway Management in Traumatic Brain Injury27:46 Hypoxia and Its Impact on Brain Injury34:56 Understanding Blood Pressure in Brain Injury Patients37:46 The Role of Pressors and Fluid Management39:29 The Importance of Plasma in Trauma Care42:12 Temperature Management in Brain Injury44:47 Cerebral Venous Drainage and Patient Positioning48:39 Seizure Prophylaxis in Traumatic Brain Injury51:08 Hyperosmolar Therapy and Its Applications56:53 Surgical Interventions: Decompressive Craniectomy01:02:22 Understanding Brain Injury Outcomes01:08:23 The Glasgow Coma Scale Explained01:14:22 Defining Coma and Patient Awareness01:17:45 The Emotional Toll of Brain Injury01:25:01 Future Directions in Head Injury Management

Sep 5, 2025 • 1h 24min
Management of the Blunt Trauma Patient w/ David T. Efron, MD, Justin E Richards, MD & Cj Meyer, RN, BA, BS, BSN, MSL, TCRN
Summary generated by Riverside AISummary: In this episode, members of the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center sit down with Cody & Mustafa Sidik to discuss the complexities of managing blunt force trauma patients. The conversation covers the importance of initial assessments, team dynamics, and the need for consistent protocols in trauma care. The team emphasizes the significance of communication and support among healthcare professionals to ensure optimal patient outcomes. Through case studies, they explore real-life scenarios that highlight the challenges and strategies in trauma management. In this conversation, the speakers discuss critical aspects of emergency medical procedures, focusing on needle decompression techniques, the importance of effective EMS reporting, and strategies for managing traumatic brain injuries in the field. They also explore the use of pelvic binders and external tourniquets in trauma care, emphasizing the need for proper training and communication among medical teams.Keywordsblunt force trauma, trauma management, emergency medicine, trauma team dynamics, patient assessment, airway management, trauma cases, communication in healthcare, trauma care protocols, trauma center, needle decompression, thoracotomy, EMS report, traumatic brain injury, pelvic binders, external tourniquets, pre-hospital care, emergency medicine, paramedics, medical educationChapters00:00 Introduction to the Shock Trauma Team02:38 Understanding Blunt Force Trauma05:33 Initial Assessment and Priorities in Trauma Care07:19 Airway Management in Blunt Trauma09:52 The Importance of Consistent Protocols14:20 Training and Team Dynamics in Trauma Care18:35 The Role of Experience in Trauma Response25:20 Building Trust and Communication in Emergency Settings28:51 Building a Culture of No Retribution34:35 Teamwork in High-Stress Situations35:22 Initial Management of Trauma Cases43:54 Landmarks for Needle Decompression48:40 Finger Thoracostomy vs. Needle Decompression53:33 The Importance of Effective Communication in Reports55:18 The Importance of Effective Communication in EMS57:21 Case Study: Managing Severe Traumatic Brain Injury01:03:32 Medication Choices for Head Injuries01:08:35 Managing Intracranial Pressure and Ventilation Strategies01:18:58 The Role of Pelvic Binders and External Tourniquets

Aug 29, 2025 • 1h 6min
Discussion on the Mass Dissolution of the National EMS Advisory Council
Summary generated by Riverside AISummaryThis conversation delves into the National EMS Advisory Council (NEMSAC), its structure, function, and the recent challenges it faces. The speakers, Brendan Hayden and Tom Arkins, share their experiences and insights on the importance of NEMSAC in advocating for EMS at the federal level, the advisory process, and the impact of recent changes in governance. They emphasize the need for grassroots advocacy and the role of EMS professionals in shaping the future of the industry. The group also stresses the importance of groups such as the NEMSAC, along with the Federal Office of EMS, reaching out directly to EMS clinicians to make their work, and value, known. Chapters00:00 Introduction to NEMSAC and Its Importance02:10 Understanding NEMSAC and FICOMS07:45 The Role of NEMSAC in EMS Advocacy10:04 The Impact of Federal Regulations on EMS11:24 Grassroots Efforts and Local Changes12:47 The Structure and Function of NEMSAC19:40 The Advisory Process Explained23:39 Recent Changes and Challenges for NEMSAC27:54 Executive Orders and NEMSAC's Future35:07 Advocacy and the Future of EMS35:32 The Importance of Advocacy in EMS36:48 Evolving Communication in EMS37:15 Challenges of Federal Advisory Councils39:41 Addressing Misconceptions in EMS40:20 The Role of Social Media in EMS Awareness43:50 The Need for Transparency in EMS44:59 The Role of EMS Providers in Advocacy49:29 Future of NEMSAC and EMS Leadership54:09 The Impact of Federal Downsizing on EMS54:35 Counting EMS Professionals Accurately59:10 Closing Thoughts on EMS Advocacy and Future Directions

Aug 25, 2025 • 1h 15min
Heart Failure Management w/ Cody Winniford & Mustafa Sidik
Summary generated by Riverside AIIn this episode, Mustafa and Cody reconnect after a brief hiatus to discuss the complexities of managing Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) in emergency settings. They emphasize the importance of medical directors, the pathophysiology of CHF, and the critical role of CPAP and nitrates in treatment. Through a case study, they explore practical management strategies and the controversies surrounding the use of Lasix. The conversation highlights the need for early recognition and tailored interventions in CHF management.TakeawaysThe importance of maintaining relationships with medical directors.Understanding the pathophysiology of Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) is crucial for effective management.CPAP is a vital tool in treating CHF, providing both preload and afterload reduction.Nitrates can significantly improve patient outcomes in CHF when used correctly.Early recognition of CHF symptoms can lead to better management strategies.Lasix use in emergency settings is controversial and requires careful consideration.Patient comfort and cooperation are essential when applying CPAP.The role of technology, like nasal capnography, can enhance patient assessment.Effective communication with patients can improve their experience during treatment.Continuous education and adaptation of practices are necessary in emergency medicine.Chapters00:00 Reconnecting After a Hiatus01:58 Exploring Congestive Heart Failure09:27 Understanding CHF Physiology and Terminology18:36 Diving into SCAPE and Its Implications24:11 Preload and Afterload: Key Concepts in CHF Management24:47 Understanding Fluid Overload and Hemodynamics27:43 The Role of CPAP in Patient Management36:40 Nitrates: Mechanism and Importance in CHF48:08 Initial Management of Heart Failure Patients49:54 Effective CPAP Application Techniques53:58 Nitrates and CPAP: A Balancing Act58:30 Exploring the Role of Lasix in Heart Failure Management01:04:09 Advanced Pharmacological Approaches in Emergency Care01:08:38 Distinguishing Between CHF and COPD in Emergency Settings

Aug 11, 2025 • 1h 6min
Discussion on the EMS System of Norway w/ Carl Christiansen, M.Phil.Ed., MSc
Summary Generated by Riverside FM AIIn this conversation, Mustafa Sidik, Josh and Carl discuss the intricacies of the healthcare system in Norway, focusing on the role of paramedics and the structure of ambulance services. Carl shares his journey from technician to advanced paramedic practitioner, highlighting the evolution of paramedic education and the importance of higher education in the field. The discussion also touches on the challenges and opportunities in EMS research, the cultural perceptions of paramedics, and the need for collaboration and change within the profession.Keywordsparamedic, healthcare system, Norway, EMS education, ambulance services, critical care, paramedic training, research in EMS, paramedic leadership, international perspectivesChapters00:00 Introduction to Carl's Background03:07 Healthcare System in Norway05:28 Ambulance Services and Their Structure07:49 Paramedic Training Evolution in Norway10:29 Advanced Life Support and Critical Care12:56 The Shift to Bachelor's Degree Programs15:14 Challenges in Rural EMS17:29 Cultural Perspectives on Paramedicine20:08 Norwegian Higher Education System22:27 Coursework in Paramedic Programs25:15 Research Literacy in Paramedic Education36:32 Understanding EMS Certification and Licensure40:31 The Variability of EMS Standards Across States42:18 The Role of Higher Education in EMS46:22 Research and Development in Paramedicine51:21 The Need for EMS-Led Research54:44 Advancements in Critical Care Paramedicine58:00 Union Representation in EMS01:05:05 The Future of Paramedicine: Collaboration and Change

Aug 4, 2025 • 1h 49min
Topics in EMS w/ Steve Proctor, Flight Paramedic/Master Trooper, Maryland State Police (Ret.)
Steve Proctor, a retired flight paramedic and Master Trooper with the Maryland State Police, shares his journey through emergency medical services. He discusses the historical evolution of EMS, inspired by the show 'Emergency!', and highlights the significant changes in training and protocols. Proctor addresses the challenges faced by paramedics in urban environments and the importance of mentorship in advancing the profession. He advocates for higher education standards for paramedics and emphasizes the critical need for real-world experience in shaping future healthcare providers.

Jul 28, 2025 • 54min
The Evolution of EMS Documentation w/ Joe Graw, Chief Growth Officer, ImageTrend
In this episode, Josh & Mustafa sit down with Joe Graw, Chief Growth Officer for Imagetrend, to discuss various topics related to EMS documentation as it has evolved over the years.

Jul 23, 2025 • 1h 8min
Discussion on First Responder Mental Health w/ Rachael Belcher
In this discussion, Ken & Mustafa sit down with Rachael Belcher to discuss various topics related to EMS & mental health.Check out the book she just published below:https://a.co/d/73dbbEd

Jul 7, 2025 • 1h 23min
Discussion on the 2025 Guidelines for the Management of ACS: Pearls for the Prehospital Clinician
In this conversation, the Alert Medic 1 team is joined by the Okayest Medic Podcast host to discuss the 2025 guidelines for managing patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS). They emphasize the importance of understanding clinical practice guidelines, the levels of evidence behind recommendations, and the critical role of patient history and assessment in emergency medical services (EMS). The discussion covers the significance of serial EKGs in detecting dynamic changes in cardiac patients, the appropriate use of oxygen therapy, and strategies for managing high-risk patients. The team highlights the need for effective communication with receiving hospitals and the importance of continuous education in improving patient care. In this conversation, the speakers delve into critical aspects of emergency cardiac care, focusing on the use of epinephrine in life-threatening situations, the significance of troponin levels in diagnosing myocardial infarctions, and the importance of posterior EKGs in identifying STEMIs. They also discuss pain management strategies, particularly the use of nitroglycerin versus fentanyl, and emphasize the need for clinical judgment in assessing chest pain. The discussion culminates in a series of insights and recommendations for emergency medical professionals.

Jun 30, 2025 • 48min
Discussing the 2025 Pediatric Updates to the Maryland EMS Protocol w/ Jen Anders, MD
Dr. Jennifer Anders, Maryland’s Associate State Medical Director for Pediatrics and a Pediatric Emergency Department specialist at Johns Hopkins Hospital, joins to discuss vital updates to Maryland's Pediatric EMS protocols. Topics include mastering intraosseous access techniques and crucial changes in administering dexamethasone for asthma. The conversation highlights enhancements in CPR methods with ECMO and the importance of strong communication between EMS and hospitals to improve patient outcomes. A fresh look at pediatric care that no medic should miss!