EMS Education - Advisor: Basic Life Support (BLS)

 

The Advisor: Basic Life Support (BLS) program is a specialized certification pathway developed by the AHA for individuals who have successfully completed the cognitive portion of the HeartCode® BLS course but cannot physically perform the motor skills of CPR due to a disability.

Rather than demonstrating the physical actions (like chest compressions or AED pad placement), participants demonstrate competency by advising another person through those steps — showing they fully understand the why, when, and how of BLS.

Purpose & Importance

This program:

• Promotes inclusivity in lifesaving education by recognizing that knowledge is just as critical as physical ability.
• Allows people with physical disabilities to become certified in BLS and empowered to guide and direct others during a real cardiac emergency.
• Increases the number of trained individuals in a given community who can contribute during a medical crisis — even if they aren't able to perform CPR themselves.

Eligibility and Certification

To earn the Advisor: BLS certification card, participants must:

1. Pass the HeartCode® BLS Provider Course cognitive exam (the same as all BLS providers).

Successfully demonstrate their ability to verbally direct another person in performing:

• High-quality CPR
• AED use
• Basic resuscitation team skills

This is assessed by an AHA instructor, who ensures that the candidate can provide accurate, timely, and effective instructions that align with AHA guidelines.

The issued certification card is an Advisor: BLS card, which is distinct from the standard BLS Provider card — but still represents formal AHA-recognized certification.

Who Is It For?

This program is designed for:

• Individuals with physical disabilities that prevent them from completing hands-on CPR testing.
• Candidates who want to contribute to emergency preparedness in workplaces, schools, or communities, even if they cannot perform compressions themselves.

Impact and Accessibility

The Advisor: BLS program aligns with the AHA's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in resuscitation science and training. By expanding the definition of who can be trained and certified, the program:

• Acknowledges the contributions and capabilities of persons with disabilities.
• Increases the total number of CPR-capable bystanders in society — a crucial factor in improving out-of-hospital cardiac arrest outcomes.
• Encourages organizations to embrace broader emergency readiness by including all capable team members.

Learn more about it here: https://newsroom.heart.org/news/new-program-developed-for-persons-with-disabilities-to-advise-others-on-cpr

EMS Celebrations - Memorial Day

 

This Memorial Day, we stand in solemn remembrance of the courageous men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. 

Their selfless sacrifice reminds us of the true cost of freedom and the deep responsibility we all share to honor and uphold their legacy.

As EMS providers, we understand the meaning of service, sacrifice, and answering the call when others are in need. 

On this day, we reflect not only as medical professionals, but as grateful citizens, forever indebted to those who gave everything in defense of our nation.

Their courage lives on in the families they left behind, the freedoms they preserved, and in each of us who chooses to serve others with compassion and care. 

We are inspired by their legacy to keep showing up, for our communities, our patients, and for one another.

Please join us in taking a moment to remember and honor those who never came home. 

May their bravery never be forgotten, and may we strive every day to live lives worthy of their sacrifice.

With deepest respect,

Mark Tozer, EMT-Int

EMS Words of Wisdom - Your Impact Is Everlasting

 

EMS Celebrations - EMS Week | Remembrance Day

 

Today, we take a moment to honor the EMS providers who have made the ultimate sacrifice, both over time and in the line of duty.

Together with families, departments, and communities, we reflect on their strength and commitment, which will always remain in our hearts.

As we remember those we have lost, we pay tribute to the impact they have left behind.

Today, I will take the opportunity to celebrate the remarkable life of Jon Wik, a true paramedic extraordinaire from Gillette, Wyoming.

Jon was a man of many facets…great, wild, and undeniably funny. His infectious laughter and larger-than-life personality enriched the lives of everyone around him.

Jon dedicated his life to serving others, never shying away from the challenges that came his way. He faced every call with unwavering courage, often lightening the mood with his quick wit and humor when times were tough.

His ability to bring levity to serious situations made him not only a phenomenal paramedic but also a cherished friend to his colleagues and the community.

Beyond his professional life, Jon was a passionate individual who loved life to its fullest. He embraced every moment with enthusiasm, reminding us all of the importance of joy and connection.

As we remember Jon, let us celebrate the incredible impact he had and carry forward his spirit of compassion, humor, and dedication.

While he may no longer be with us, his memory and laughter will continue to inspire us every day.

Thank you, Jon, for everything. You will be deeply missed.

If you’re remembering a fallen hero today, please feel free to leave a memorial message below.

EMS Health & Wellbeing - Mental Health Awareness Month

It is an important reminder for our community of fellow lifesavers and healthcare professionals that mental health matters.

We must continue to recognize how critical this issue is, not just for our overall well-being, but for the safety of our teams and the patients we serve.

Treating our mental health with the same care and compassion we give to physical injuries isn’t just a matter of wellness, it’s a matter of safety, resilience, and longevity in this demanding field.

Imagine if we were as attuned to stress injuries as we are to sprains or fractures. If we offered ourselves and our colleagues the same support and grace we could change the culture, reduce stigma, and strengthen our community.

EMS Peculiar Patient Presentations - Water On The Brain

A recent medical case has puzzled scientists: a 44-year-old man has been living a seemingly normal life despite having only 10% of his brain tissue remaining.

The patient was diagnosed with hydrocephalus, a condition characterized by an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain.

In his case, the excess CSF has gradually displaced nearly all of the brain parenchyma, leaving only a thin peripheral rim of functional neural tissue. Imaging studies revealed that the majority of his cranial cavity is occupied by fluid.

Remarkably, despite this profound anatomical abnormality, the man leads a fully functional life.

He is employed as a civil servant, has a family, and possesses a measured IQ of 84 — slightly below the statistical average, but well within the range of independent functioning.

This case calls into question long-standing assumptions about neuroanatomy, brain plasticity, and the localization of consciousness and cognitive functions.

It suggests a remarkable degree of adaptability in the central nervous system, and may prompt a re-evaluation of how essential various brain structures are to everyday functioning.

Further Reading:

Feuillet, L., Dufour, H., & Pelletier, J. (2007) Brain of a White-Collar Worker. The Lancet, 370(9583), 262. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(07)61127-1 Accessed April 10, 2025

EMS Celebrations - National EMT & Paramedic Appreciation Day

Today we salute the heroes who run toward the emergency. Thank you, EMTs and Paramedics, for your courage, care, and commitment. Your unwavering dedication to serving our communities does not go unnoticed. 

Day in and day out, you put your lives on the line, often in the most challenging and unpredictable situations. 

Your quick thinking and expert training make all the difference in providing life-saving care when it matters most. You are the reassuring presence amidst the chaos, offering comfort to those in distress and bringing hope when it seems all is lost. 

On this National EMT and Paramedic Appreciation Day, we honor your tireless efforts, the sacrifices you make, and the emotional challenges you face. Your compassion and professionalism inspire us all. 

Thank you for everything you do to keep our communities safe and healthy. We are grateful for your service and commitment to excellence. Today, we celebrate YOU — our everyday heroes!

EMS Celebrations - National Public Safety Telecommunications Week

This week, we honor the unseen heroes who serve as the crucial first point of contact in emergencies—our emergency dispatchers.

Emergency dispatchers play a vital role in ensuring the safety and well-being of our communities. They are the calm voice in the chaos, the steady presence in moments of panic, and the link between those in need and the help they require. 

Whether it’s a medical emergency, a fire, or a crime in progress, dispatchers are the ones who gather critical information, coordinate with first responders, and provide life-saving instructions—all while remaining composed under pressure.

These dedicated professionals work tirelessly behind the scenes, often without recognition, yet their impact is felt every day. Their quick thinking, compassion, and professionalism help save lives and keep our neighborhoods safe.

To all emergency dispatchers: thank you for your unwavering commitment, your strength in stressful situations, and your vital service to our communities. You are truly the lifeline in times of crisis, and we are deeply grateful for everything you do.

Happy National Public Safety Telecommunications Week!

EMS Words of Wisdom - Put The ‘Extra’ Into Your Service

 

EMS Words of Wisdom - Keep Pushing Forward

 

EMS Training Opportunity - Paid 'Victim Actors' Needed

Colorado Cardiac CPR is looking for 'victim actors' to help with a Tactical Emergency Medical Services (TEMS) course we are running

You will be paid $75 per session for Oscar worthy acting skills (or your best attempt), and we need to fill three (3) sessions.

This will require 'victim actors' to be made up with fake blood (moulage) and realistic wounds. You will get dirty. Your 'victim' clothes (provided) may get cut off.

When:

Wednesday, April 2 (Session 1: 1pm till 5pm)

Thursday, April 3 (Session 2: 7 am till 12 pm)

Thursday, (Session 3: 12:30 pm till 4:30 pm)

Where: SACFD Training Facility (Old Animal Shelter - "The Pound"), 10705 Fulton St, Brighton, CO 80601

Who: Anyone 18+ (Drama queens/kings encouraged, but not required)

What: You’ll be assigned a role to play in a scenario where the TEMS students practice scene management and patient handling.

Pay: $75 per session (Net 30 days: check mailed or picked up at our Littleton location).

If interested contact the 3CPR Team: info@3cpr.org for more information.

Share with a friend who’d love to get paid to be dramatic!

EMS Words of Wisdom - Educate Yourself

Your knowledge and ability to act on your education is your most useful tool.

If you need motivation and inspiration, then look within yourself.

Your knowledge and skills give you the power to save lives.

Healthcare News - Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever

Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF), caused by Rickettsia rickettsii, is one of the most severe infectious diseases in the Americas.

The pathogen targets endothelial cells, leading to widespread microvascular damage, fluid leakage, and severe complications such as pneumonitis, myocarditis, kidney injury, and meningoencephalitis.

In advanced cases, RMSF can cause respiratory distress, cardiac abnormalities, coma, and peripheral gangrene, with high mortality rates if left untreated.

Timely diagnosis and immediate antibiotic administration are critical, as mortality can reach 50% within the first eight days of illness.

RMSF is transmitted through various tick species, with Rhipicephalus sanguineus (brown dog tick) playing a significant role in Mexico, while Amblyomma species contribute to transmission in Brazil and North America.

The disease is endemic across Canada, the United States, Mexico, and South America, with an increasing number of urban outbreaks linked to poor sanitation, high tick populations, and free-roaming dogs.

A One Health approach has identified three primary ecological zones for RMSF transmission: sylvatic (wildlife-based), peridomestic (domesticated animal involvement), and urban (densely populated regions).

Control efforts require vector management, improved veterinary care, environmental modifications, and public health initiatives.

The brown dog tick presents a particular challenge due to its resistance to acaricides, necessitating integrated pest management strategies, including the use of isoxazolines and environmental barriers.

RMSF remains a serious public health concern, demanding coordinated intervention.

Preventative strategies - such as early recognition, vector control, sterilization programs, and public awareness - are essential to reducing transmission and improving patient outcomes.

Healthcare professionals must remain vigilant in identifying and managing suspected cases to mitigate the disease’s increasing burden.

For more information access this Medtigo link .

References: Foley J., López-Pérez A.M., Álvarez-Hernández G (2025) A Wolf at The Door: The Ecology, Epidemiology & Emergence of Community & Urban-Level Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever in The Americas. American Journal of Veterinary Research 86(3):368-378. https://doi.org/10.2460/ajvr.24.11.0368 Accessed March 10, 2025

EMS Education -Teaching and Testing the New BLS Exams

This is essential information for anyone in the group who has yet to take the NREMT exam, as well as for those training EMRs and EMTs who will be taking it.

In this recorded webinar, Dan Limmer discusses how the recent changes to the National Registry’s BLS exam will impact current students and what EMT educators can do to ensure their students are prepared.

He covers key areas such as assessment, differential diagnosis, and critical thinking skills necessary for success on the updated exam.

Download the educator resources from Limmer Education here: https://bit.ly/BLS-Exam-Resources

EMS In The News - Runaway Ambulance

A man stole an ambulance from outside Swedish Hospital on Chicago’s North Side and ignited a 15-mile police chase.

The drama unfolded around noon when the suspect, taking off in an unoccupied ambulance owned by Elite Ambulance, sped off right from the emergency room entrance.

Those reading this probably know, ambulances are not the fastest get-away vehicles. Also, they’re usually large, badged up, and hard to miss.

Law enforcement quickly tracked the runaway vehicle north, eventually finding it in a parking lot at an office complex near I-94 and Dundee Road in Northbrook.

The chase ended with the suspect’s arrest, and the ambulance was processed for evidence.

Source: JEMS - Journal of Emergency Medical Services

EMS Words of Wisdom - Be Curious, Not Judgmental

 

EMS Celebrations – International Women’s Day

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) is a demanding and dynamic profession that requires dedication, skill, and an unwavering commitment to patient care. 

Today, on International Women’s Day, we take the opportunity to honor and celebrate the extraordinary contributions of women in EMS. Their strength, bravery, and resilience continue to shape the field and inspire future generations of emergency responders.  

Women in EMS serve in various capacities as paramedics, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), flight medics, educators, administrators, and leaders. 

Despite the challenges that come with working in high-pressure, fast-paced environments, they demonstrate exceptional skill and professionalism while saving lives and providing critical prehospital care. 

Their role is not just about responding to emergencies but also about fostering innovation, mentoring the next generation of EMS professionals, and advocating for improved healthcare systems.  

As we recognize the achievements of women in emergency services, we also acknowledge the progress made in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the field. 

Although historically a male-dominated profession, EMS has seen a growing number of women stepping into leadership roles, breaking barriers, and paving the way for a more inclusive and representative workforce. 

Their dedication to patient care, teamwork, and professional excellence is a testament to the vital role they play in shaping the future of EMS.  

Today, we encourage everyone to take a moment to appreciate and support the incredible women who dedicate their lives to serving others in their most vulnerable moments. 

Whether on the front lines of emergency response, in training and education, or in leadership and advocacy, their contributions are invaluable.  

Let us continue working towards a future where opportunities in EMS are equitable for all, and where women are empowered to lead, innovate, and thrive in every aspect of the profession.  

Happy International Women’s Day to all the incredible women in EMS!

Healthcare News - FDA Approves Needle-Free Epinephrine Alternative for Pediatric Anaphylaxis

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Neffy, an epinephrine nasal spray developed by ARS Pharmaceuticals, for the emergency treatment of Type I allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, in children aged four years and older (33–66 lbs.).

This approval marks the first significant advancement in pediatric epinephrine delivery in over 30 years.

Epinephrine remains the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis, yet research indicates that delays in administration are common due to apprehension regarding needle-based auto-injectors.

Neffy addresses this barrier to potential use by providing a precise, needle-free delivery system that simplifies emergency intervention.

Clinical trials have demonstrated its pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic equivalency to traditional epinephrine injections, with minimal side effects.

Designed for stability, Neffy maintains efficacy for 24 months at room temperature and withstands extreme temperatures, ensuring reliability in diverse conditions.

The device is user-friendly, enabling non-medical personnel, such as teachers and caregivers, to administer life-saving treatment effectively.

The nasal spray will be available in the U.S. starting May 2025, with affordability initiatives, including co-pay savings and patient assistance programs, ensuring broader accessibility.

The approval of Neffy reflects a growing shift toward needle-free epinephrine solutions, improving anaphylaxis management and patient outcomes in both pre-hospital and in-hospital settings.

For more information access the Medtigo link.

Further Reading:

ARS Pharmaceuticals (2025) FDA Approval of Neffy® 1 mg (epinephrine nasal spray) for Type I Allergic Reactions, Including Anaphylaxis, in Pediatric Patients Weighing 15 to < 30 Kilograms Accessed March 5, 2024

Images of EMS - Spring Is In The Air

 

EMS Training Opportunity - Advanced Stroke Life Support (ASLS)

Provider: Colorado Cardiac CPR

Date/Time: Wed April 16, 2025 / 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM

Location: Northwest Denver / Wheat Ridge

Address: 3798 Marshall Street, Suite 2, Wheat Ridge CO, 80033

Class Price: $149.00

Description: The American Heart Association's (AHA) ASLS course builds on the foundation of lifesaving skills; aiming to educate prehospital and in hospital healthcare providers to optimize the identification, evaluation and treatment of patients with acute stroke, and identify the five main stroke syndromes and relate them to pathophysiology and clinical signs. 

The course objective is to explain the importance of an organized approach to treating patients with stroke for improved patient outcomes, and describe the management goals also.

ASLS requires an Online Course prior to a 2-3 hour skill session. The skills session includes discussion, practical application and a skills test.

ASLS is appropriate for healthcare professionals in both prehospital and in-hospital settings involved in the management of acute stroke patients. 

This advanced course is ideal for:

• Stroke Coordinators
• Nursing Students and Nurses
• Advanced Practice Registered Nurses
• Paramedics and Emergency Medical Personnel
• Physicians
• Physician Assistants
• Residents and Fellows
• Medical Students
• Respiratory Therapists

Enrollment Link: https://3cpr.enrollware.com/enroll?id=11198953

Notes: For more information contact 3CPR at 720-639-2623 or Info@3Cpr.Org

Space is limited so register today.