EMS 455 - Biomedical Fndn. for Paramedic

1. Analyze Cellular Structure and Function
   1. Identify cell components and their functions in health and disease
   2. Describe cellular metabolism, protein synthesis, and reproductive processes (mitosis, meiosis)
   3. Understand transport mechanisms such as diffusion, osmosis, and active transport
2. Examine Homeostasis and Feedback Mechanisms
   1. Define homeostasis and its physiological importance
   2. Explain negative and positive feedback loops and their roles in systemic balance
   3. Identify how various organ systems contribute to internal regulation (e.g., thermoregulation, fluid balance)
3. Survey the Principles of Pathophysiology
   1. Describe mechanisms of disease: inflammation, infection, ischemia, neoplasia, immune dysfunction 
   2. Differentiate normal vs. abnormal function at cellular and systemic levels
   3. Explain systemic responses to disease (e.g., fever, shock, compensation)
4. Analyze Lifespan Development and Patient Assessment
   1. Identify physical, cognitive, emotional, and psychosocial milestones for all life stages from neonate to older adult
   2. Explain physiological and psychological changes related to aging
   3. Modify assessments based on developmental stage and communication needs.
5. Evaluate Age-Specific Disease Presentation
   1. Recognize how illness presents differently across the lifespan (e.g., silent MI in geriatrics)
   2. Identify developmental red flags in pediatric patients
   3. Assess mental health concerns common in adolescence and late adulthood
6. Examine Psychosocial and Cultural Considerations
   1. Understand age-specific psychosocial challenges (e.g., adolescent risk-taking, elder isolation)
   2. Apply cultural competence and communication adaptations during patient care
7. Survey Pharmacologic Principles
   1. Explain pharmacokinetics (ADME) and pharmacodynamics (drug-receptor interactions)
   2. Understand therapeutic classes, mechanisms of action, and drug effects
8. Demonstrate Medication Administration and Safety
   1. Apply the “Six Rights” of medication administration
   2. Perform accurate medication calculations (weight-based dosing, IV drip rates)
   3. Understand EMS routes of administration and documentation standards
9. Assess Condition-Specific Pharmacology
   1. Modify drug selection and dosing for special populations (e.g., neonates, geriatrics, pregnancy)
   2. Recognize implications of renal/hepatic impairment and polypharmacy
10. Examine Toxicology and Drug Abuse
    1. Identify signs and management of overdoses and toxidromes
    2. Understand reversal agents and field management priorities
11. Exhibit Professional Judgment and Clinical Behavior
    1. Communicate, including through documentation,  clearly across the care continuum
    2. Demonstrate cultural humility and ethical decision-making in practice
    3. Uphold professional standards in medication administration, patient interaction, and safety