EMTprep Pulse Check

EMTprep
  • 5.0 (8)
  • Education
  • Updated Weekly

EMTprep Pulse Check is your go-to audio companion for NREMT success and real-world EMS readiness. Brought to you by the team behind EMTprep.com, this podcast delivers high-yield content to help you sharpen your knowledge, ace your exams, and stay field-ready. Episodes feature a combination of lectures, concise breakdowns of key exam topics, clinical insights, real-world case discussions, and practical tips for future EMTs and paramedics. Whether you’re on your commute, between calls, or in study mode, Pulse Check keeps you on track and in the know. Subscribe now and stay sharp, both for the test and for the field.

  1. 5d ago

    Scenario #2

    In this episode of EMTprep Pulse Check, listeners take on the role of the EMS provider during a 911 call involving a 67-year-old patient with severe difficulty breathing. Starting with dispatch information and scene safety considerations, the episode walks through the patient's initial presentation, primary and secondary assessments, differential diagnoses, vital signs, lung sounds, oxygenation, capnography, and treatment decisions. The patient presents with significant respiratory distress, wheezing, hypoxia, tachycardia, and increased work of breathing, prompting consideration of oxygen therapy, nebulized bronchodilators, steroids, CPAP/BiPAP, and other interventions. The scenario then follows the patient's response to treatment and highlights how ongoing reassessment should guide clinical decisions. Listeners work through changes in lung sounds, SpO₂, end-tidal CO₂, respiratory effort, mentation, and overall presentation to determine whether the patient is improving or progressing toward respiratory failure. The episode also explores transport destination, indications for escalating respiratory support, and the distinction between respiratory distress and respiratory failure. What You'll Learn How to approach scene safety and situational awareness during nighttime respiratory emergencies. How to assess a patient with respiratory distress using work of breathing, lung sounds, SpO₂, capnography, mentation, and overall clinical presentation. How treatments such as oxygen, nebulized bronchodilators, steroids, CPAP/BiPAP, magnesium, and epinephrine may fit into the management of severe respiratory conditions, depending on provider level and local protocols. How to use reassessment findings to determine whether a patient is improving or requires escalation to additional respiratory support. How to recognize the differences between respiratory distress and respiratory failure, including changes in mentation, respiratory effort, oxygenation, and end-tidal CO₂. Key Takeaways Early recognition and treatment matter. Patients with COPD or other obstructive respiratory conditions can deteriorate, making rapid assessment and appropriate respiratory interventions important. Reassessment should drive treatment decisions. Changes in lung sounds, SpO₂, end-tidal CO₂, respiratory effort, ability to speak, and mentation can help determine whether treatment is working or the patient's condition is worsening. Know the difference between respiratory distress and respiratory failure. A patient who is initially compensating can progress to fatigue, altered mentation, worsening hypoxia, and inadequate ventilation as respiratory failure develops. ✅ Want to stay current, informed, and confident as an EMS professional? Thousands of EMT students and providers trust EMTprep.com for exam-focused learning, real-world insights, and content aligned with current EMS education standards. 👉 Start learning today at EMTprep.com. Access begins at just $25 per month.   #EMTprep #NREMTPrep #RespiratoryDistress #RespiratoryFailure #COPD #Asthma #EMSeducation #PrehospitalCare #EMTTraining #RespiratoryEmergencies

  2. Sep 21

    2025 AHA Guidelines Update

    In this episode of EMTprep Pulse Check, we review 10 key updates from the 2025 American Heart Association (AHA) Guidelines for CPR and emergency cardiovascular care. The discussion covers changes affecting both adult and pediatric patients, including the new universal cardiac arrest Chain of Survival, updated foreign-body airway obstruction interventions, infant chest compression techniques, increased emphasis on public access to naloxone, post-cardiac arrest temperature control, and new guidance surrounding the ethics of resuscitation. The episode also explores updates related to double sequential external defibrillation (DSED) and vector change defibrillation, IV versus IO access during adult cardiac arrest, neurologic outcome prediction following pediatric cardiac arrest, and the use of cognitive aids during resuscitation. Throughout the discussion, listeners are reminded that AHA guidelines are recommendations and that EMS providers should continue to follow their agency's current protocols, standing orders, and medical direction. What You'll Learn How the 2025 universal Cardiac Arrest Chain of Survival combines the previous adult and pediatric cardiac arrest chains into one six-step framework. What changed in the management of severe foreign-body airway obstructions, including alternating five back blows and five abdominal thrusts. The updated infant chest compression recommendations and elimination of the two-finger technique. Key updates involving post-cardiac arrest care, including temperature control and neurologic outcome assessment following pediatric cardiac arrest. Changes and continuing areas of uncertainty surrounding DSED, vector change defibrillation, IV versus IO access, and cognitive aids during resuscitation. Key Takeaways The 2025 AHA Guidelines place a greater emphasis on consistency and streamlined approaches to resuscitation across patient populations. Not every AHA recommendation automatically means an immediate change to local EMS practice—know and follow your current protocols and medical direction. Cognitive aids, algorithms, and reference tools can help providers maintain high-quality, consistent care during high-stress resuscitation events—but providers should already understand the underlying algorithms rather than relying on the reference to teach them in the moment. ✅ Want to stay current, informed, and confident as an EMS professional? Thousands of EMT students and providers trust EMTprep.com for exam-focused learning, real-world insights, and content aligned with current EMS education standards. 👉 Start learning today at EMTprep.com. Access begins at just $25 per month.     #EMTprep #AHAGuidelines #2025AHAGuidelines #NREMTPrep #CPR #CardiacArrest #ChainOfSurvival #EMSeducation #EMTTraining #Resuscitation

  3. Sep 14

    Scenario #1

    In this episode of EMTprep Pulse Check, we take a different approach to EMS education by placing the listener in the provider role during a simulated 911 call. The scenario follows an 11-year-old patient who sustained an electrical injury after contacting an active power line while standing on a ladder, allowing listeners to work through scene safety, primary and secondary assessment, vital signs, differential diagnoses, treatment decisions, transport considerations, reassessment, and hospital handoff. Throughout the scenario, listeners are encouraged to pause and consider what they would do at each stage of the call before hearing the provider's approach. As the scenario develops, the patient's presentation highlights the importance of looking beyond obvious burn injuries and considering the potential for internal injury, dysrhythmias, trauma, and rapid clinical deterioration. The episode also explores pediatric assessment, cervical-spine considerations, pain management, fluid resuscitation, trauma-system entry, transport destination and priority, and the importance of reassessment when a patient's condition worsens. The episode concludes with key lessons about electrical injuries, pediatric patients, provider judgment, and maintaining scene safety around electrical hazards. What You’ll Learn: How to approach scene safety and resource considerations when responding to a patient involved with an electrical hazard How to assess a pediatric patient with an electrical injury, including recognizing signs of shock and potential dysrhythmias Why electrical injuries can cause significant internal damage that may not be apparent from the patient's external burns How to make treatment, transport, reassessment, and destination decisions as a patient's clinical condition changes How provider judgment, trauma-system criteria, and a structured hospital report contribute to effective prehospital care Key Takeaways: Scene safety comes first: Never rush into an electrical-injury scene without confirming that the electrical hazard has been controlled and that it is safe for responders to access the patient. Don't let the visible injuries become tunnel vision: Electrical injuries can cause significant internal damage along the pathway of the electrical current, even when external burns appear limited. Reassessment drives decision-making: A patient who initially appears relatively stable can deteriorate, making continuous reassessment, appropriate monitoring, and willingness to adjust treatment and transport decisions essential. ✅ Want to stay current, informed, and confident as an EMS professional? Thousands of EMT students and providers trust EMTprep for exam-focused learning, real-world insights, and content that reflects current best practices in EMS. 👉 Start learning today at EMTprep.com. Access begins at just $25 per month.     #EMTprep #EMTScenario #NREMTPrep #ElectricalInjury #ElectricalBurns #PediatricEMS #TraumaAssessment #EMSeducation #PrehospitalCare #EMTTraining

  4. Sep 7

    Fentanyl and Naloxone

    In this episode of EMTprep Pulse Check, we take an in-depth look at fentanyl, including what it is, how it is used as a prehospital pain medication, common adverse effects, and important considerations for safe administration. The episode explores fentanyl's role in treating acute pain, procedural sedation, RSI/DSI, cardioversion, and pacing, while emphasizing the importance of titrating medication to effect and following local protocols. The discussion also addresses patient concerns about fentanyl and how EMS providers can educate patients about the difference between appropriately controlled medical use and illicit fentanyl. The episode then shifts to fentanyl and opioid overdose emergencies, focusing on recognition of opioid toxicity, respiratory depression, scene safety, airway and ventilatory support, and the use of naloxone (Narcan). You'll learn why ventilation remains a critical priority while waiting for naloxone to take effect, why patients may become agitated or combative after reversal, and why EMS providers should continue evaluating for other causes of altered mental status. The discussion also covers the potential for recurrent opioid toxicity, the importance of following local transport and refusal protocols, and safety considerations for responders working around illicit drugs. What You’ll Learn: How fentanyl works as a synthetic opioid and why it is commonly used for prehospital pain management Common fentanyl adverse effects, including respiratory depression and nausea, and the importance of titrating doses to patient response How to recognize the hallmark findings of an opioid overdose, including altered consciousness, respiratory depression, and constricted pupils Why airway management and ventilatory support are essential during an opioid overdose and how naloxone fits into the treatment of respiratory depression Important considerations after naloxone administration, including agitation, vomiting, recurrent opioid toxicity, differential diagnoses, patient refusal, and responder safety Key Takeaways: Fentanyl can be an effective prehospital analgesic when appropriately administered, but EMS providers must understand its potential adverse effects and follow their local protocols. In opioid overdose, ventilation and correction of respiratory depression are immediate priorities; naloxone is an important treatment but does not replace basic airway and ventilatory support. A patient who responds to naloxone still requires careful reassessment because the opioid may outlast naloxone, and providers must remain alert for recurrent toxicity or another underlying medical condition. ✅ Want to stay current, informed, and confident as an EMS professional? Thousands of EMT students and providers trust EMTprep.com for exam-focused learning, real-world insights, and content aligned with current EMS education standards. 👉 Start learning today at EMTprep.com. Access begins at just $25 per month.     #EMTprep #Fentanyl #Naloxone #Narcan #OpioidOverdose #NREMTPrep #EMSeducation #PrehospitalCare #EMTTraining #EMSPodcast

  5. Aug 31

    CVA/Stroke

    In this episode of EMTprep Pulse Check, we explore stroke and the critical role EMTs play in recognizing this time-sensitive neurological emergency. Listeners will review the different types of stroke, common signs and symptoms, important assessment findings, and why rapid recognition and transport are essential to improving patient outcomes. The episode connects stroke pathophysiology with practical prehospital assessment, emphasizing the importance of recognizing sudden neurological changes, determining the patient's last known well time, and identifying patients who may benefit from specialized stroke care. By understanding how strokes affect the brain and recognizing their clinical presentation, EMTs can make faster, more informed decisions in the field. What You’ll Learn: The difference between ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes Common causes and risk factors associated with stroke Signs and symptoms that may indicate an acute stroke The importance of stroke assessment tools and determining last known well time The EMT's role in providing supportive care and prioritizing rapid transport Key Takeaways: Stroke is a time-sensitive emergency in which rapid recognition and treatment can significantly affect outcomes Identifying sudden neurological deficits and determining the patient's last known well time are critical components of the assessment Strong stroke recognition and assessment skills help EMTs provide appropriate care and facilitate timely access to definitive treatment ✅ Want to stay current, informed, and confident as an EMS professional? Thousands of EMT students and providers trust EMTprep.com for exam-focused learning, real-world insights, and content aligned with current EMS education standards. 👉 Start learning today at EMTprep.com. Access begins at just $25 per month.     #EMTprep #Stroke #StrokeRecognition #NeurologicalEmergencies #NREMTPrep #EMSeducation #PrehospitalCare #EmergencyMedicalServices #EMSPodcast #PatientAssessment

  6. Aug 24

    Pitting Edema

    In this episode of EMTprep Pulse Check, we explore pitting edema and what this physical finding can tell EMS providers about a patient's underlying condition. Listeners will learn what causes fluid to accumulate in the tissues, how to properly assess for pitting edema, and why the location and severity of edema can provide important clues during a patient assessment. The episode connects this physical assessment finding to common cardiovascular, renal, hepatic, and systemic conditions that can contribute to fluid retention. By understanding the physiology behind edema and recognizing its clinical significance, EMTs can gather more meaningful assessment information and develop a stronger understanding of their patient's overall condition. What You’ll Learn: What pitting edema is and why it occurs The physiology behind fluid accumulation in the body's tissues How to assess for and describe pitting edema Common conditions associated with peripheral edema How pitting edema can contribute to the overall assessment of a medical patient Key Takeaways: Pitting edema is an important physical assessment finding that can provide clues about a patient's underlying condition Understanding the mechanisms that cause edema helps EMTs interpret assessment findings more effectively Careful assessment of edema can strengthen clinical reasoning and support more complete patient care ✅ Want to stay current, informed, and confident as an EMS professional? Thousands of EMT students and providers trust EMTprep.com for exam-focused learning, real-world insights, and content aligned with current EMS education standards. 👉 Start learning today at EMTprep.com. Access begins at just $25 per month.   #EMTprep #PittingEdema #Edema #PatientAssessment #Cardiology #MedicalAssessment #NREMTPrep #EMSeducation #PrehospitalCare #EMSPodcast

  7. Aug 17

    Pediatric Respiratory Emergencies

    In this episode of EMTprep Pulse Check, we explore pediatric respiratory emergencies and the unique challenges EMTs face when assessing and treating children with breathing problems. Listeners will review common causes of pediatric respiratory distress and failure, important assessment findings, and the interventions that can help prevent a child's condition from rapidly deteriorating. The episode emphasizes the importance of recognizing respiratory distress early, understanding age-specific assessment findings, and identifying when a pediatric patient is progressing toward respiratory failure. By building confidence in pediatric respiratory assessment and management, EMTs can respond more effectively to some of the most time-sensitive emergencies encountered in children. What You’ll Learn: Common causes of respiratory distress and respiratory failure in pediatric patients How pediatric anatomy and physiology influence respiratory emergencies Signs and symptoms of respiratory distress, respiratory failure, and inadequate oxygenation Key priorities when assessing and managing a child with breathing difficulties The importance of early recognition, appropriate respiratory support, and ongoing reassessment Key Takeaways: Pediatric respiratory emergencies can deteriorate rapidly, making early recognition critical Understanding age-specific assessment findings helps EMTs identify respiratory distress and impending failure Effective airway and breathing management can significantly improve outcomes for pediatric patients ✅ Want to stay current, informed, and confident as an EMS professional? Thousands of EMT students and providers trust EMTprep.com for exam-focused learning, real-world insights, and content aligned with current EMS education standards. 👉 Start learning today at EMTprep.com. Access begins at just $25 per month.   #EMTprep #PediatricEmergencies #PediatricRespiratory #RespiratoryDistress #PediatricEMS #NREMTPrep #EMSeducation #PrehospitalCare #EmergencyMedicalServices #EMSPodcast

  8. Aug 10

    Cardiac Tamponade and Beck's Triad

    In this episode of EMTprep Pulse Check, we explore cardiac tamponade, a life-threatening condition in which fluid accumulates within the pericardial sac and prevents the heart from pumping effectively. Listeners will learn the pathophysiology of cardiac tamponade, the significance of Beck’s Triad, and how EMTs can recognize this medical emergency through patient assessment and clinical presentation. The episode connects cardiovascular physiology with practical prehospital care, emphasizing the importance of identifying obstructive shock, recognizing common causes such as penetrating chest trauma, and providing rapid supportive care while expediting transport to an appropriate facility. By understanding the warning signs of cardiac tamponade, EMTs can improve their assessment skills and better recognize one of the most critical causes of shock encountered in EMS. What You’ll Learn: What cardiac tamponade is and how it affects cardiac function The pathophysiology of fluid accumulation within the pericardial sac The components and clinical significance of Beck’s Triad Common causes and assessment findings associated with cardiac tamponade The EMT’s role in recognizing obstructive shock, providing supportive care, and prioritizing rapid transport Key Takeaways: Cardiac tamponade is a time-sensitive emergency that can rapidly progress to obstructive shock Beck’s Triad provides important clinical clues but may not be present in every patient Early recognition, supportive management, and rapid transport are essential for improving patient outcomes ✅ Want to stay current, informed, and confident as an EMS professional? Thousands of EMT students and providers trust EMTprep.com for exam-focused learning, real-world insights, and content aligned with current EMS education standards. 👉 Start learning today at EMTprep.com. Access begins at just $25 per month.     #EMTprep #CardiacTamponade #BecksTriad #ObstructiveShock #Cardiology #TraumaAssessment #NREMTPrep #EMSeducation #PrehospitalCare #EMSPodcast

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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

EMTprep Pulse Check is your go-to audio companion for NREMT success and real-world EMS readiness. Brought to you by the team behind EMTprep.com, this podcast delivers high-yield content to help you sharpen your knowledge, ace your exams, and stay field-ready. Episodes feature a combination of lectures, concise breakdowns of key exam topics, clinical insights, real-world case discussions, and practical tips for future EMTs and paramedics. Whether you’re on your commute, between calls, or in study mode, Pulse Check keeps you on track and in the know. Subscribe now and stay sharp, both for the test and for the field.

Information

  • Creator
    EMTprep
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    55
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    EMTprep Pulse Check

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