EMS Providers must be knowledgeable about sublingual (SL) medication administration to ensure patient safety and effective treatment.  Here are some key points they should know: 1. Indications and Contraindications Indications: Need for rapid absorption and onset of action. Common medications include nitroglycerin (for chest pain) and certain antiemetics or anxiolytics. Patients who can follow instructions…

EMS Providers should be well-informed about oral medication administration to ensure patient safety and effective treatment.  Here are some key points they should know: 1. Indications and Contraindications Indications: Situations where the patient can safely swallow and absorb medications. Management of mild to moderate pain, allergic reactions, nausea, or chronic conditions. Administration of medications such…

The article addresses the dangers of accidentally creating chlorine gas by mixing household bleach and vinegar, a common mistake due to misleading cleaning tips seen on social media.  Chlorine gas exposure can lead to severe respiratory issues, including tachypnea, cyanosis, wheezing, and potentially fatal pulmonary edema. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) warns of the…

EMS providers need to be well-versed in subcutaneous (SC) medication administration to ensure effective and safe patient care. Here are the key points they should know: 1. Indications and Contraindications Indications: Medications that require slow, sustained absorption such as insulin, heparin, and certain vaccines. Situations where IV or IM routes are not appropriate or available.…

The article from the Kansas Health Institute discusses the emerging model of community paramedicine in Kansas, which seeks to enhance healthcare delivery through non-traditional roles for paramedics and emergency medical services (EMS) personnel. Community paramedicine aims to provide more comprehensive care by addressing gaps in the healthcare system, particularly in rural and underserved areas. This…

This 2018 article by Andrew Kirk in the Journal of Paramedic Practice emphasizes the importance of adhering to best practices for intramuscular (IM) injection techniques in pre-hospital care.  It highlights that while these skills are initially taught during training, they often are not revisited, leading to suboptimal practice and potential patient discomfort.  The article provides…

EMS providers must understand various aspects of intramuscular (IM) medication administration to ensure patient safety and effective treatment. Here are the key points they should know: 1. Indications and Contraindications Indications: Rapid medication absorption is needed but IV access is not available or practical. Administration of certain vaccines, antibiotics, epinephrine (for anaphylaxis), analgesics, and sedatives.…

EMS providers should have comprehensive knowledge of intraosseous (IO) medication administration within their scope of practice to ensure patient safety and effective treatment.  Here are the key points they should know: 1. Indications and Contraindications Indications: IO access is typically used when IV access is difficult or impossible, especially in emergencies. Common scenarios include cardiac…