Unstable Bradycardia Resolves Following Atropine and Attempted Transcutaneous Pacing (TCP)

A  75 year old male experienced a syncopal episode. The event was witnessed by family members who contacted 9-1-1. On arrival of EMS personnel the patient appears acutely ill. He is pale, diaphoretic and cool to touch. He states that he is feeling lightheaded and weak. Medical History Hypertension Hyperlipidemia Gout Bilateral knee replacement Left […]

December 11, 2017

Mixed Overdose and Na-Channel Blockade

It’s 06:30 when EMS is called to an inner-city apartment for an 18-year-old male having a seizure. After gaining entry into the building, Paramedics and First Responders trudge up two flights of stairs and down a narrow, dimly lit hallway, until they find an open door into a dark two-bedroom apartment.  There are three people […]

March 2, 2017

CPR First? Or Defibrillation First?

Ventricular Fibrillation is considered the most favorable cardiac arrest rhythm, and if treated promptly can result in ROSC with a favorable neurological outcome. Most survival rates are reported using witnessed arrest with a shockable rhythm as opposed to asystole or PEA, as the outcomes of these rhythms are comparatively very poor. The Resuscitation Academy mantra […]

August 1, 2016

Is there an Irrational Fear of Naloxone?

In the U.S. there has been a 286% increase in heroin-related overdose deaths since 2002. In 2014, a total of 47,055 drug overdose deaths occurred. Our EMS systems and emergency departments have felt the surge, along with a corresponding increase in the use of the drug naloxone. Community officials have taken the initiative to reduce […]

July 12, 2016

SVT with Aberrancy or Ventricular Tachycardia?

What is SVT with aberrancy? The term “SVT with aberrancy” tends to throw many providers off so let’s start by defining SVT using the 2015 ACC/AHA/HRS Guidelines as reference. “An umbrella term used to describe tachycardias (atrial and/or ventricular rates in excess of 100 bpm at rest), the mechanism of which involves tissue from the His […]

June 8, 2016