EMS 456 - Cardio, Respiratory, & Shock

1. Evaluate Cardiac Anatomy, Physiology, and Assessment
   1. Describe the anatomy and function of the cardiovascular system, including the conduction system and blood flow
   2. Assess cardiac patients using physical exam, vital signs, and cardiac monitoring (ECG/12-lead)
   3. Interpret basic and advanced ECG rhythms and identify life-threatening arrhythmias
2. Examine Cardiac Emergencies and Management
   1. Manage acute coronary syndromes, dysrhythmias, and congestive heart failure through proper recognition
   2. Administer medications (e.g., nitroglycerin, aspirin, epinephrine) based on protocols and patient presentation
   3. Manage electrical therapies (defibrillation, cardioversion, pacing)
3. Demonstrate Airway and Respiratory System Management
   1. Perform comprehensive assessment of the respiratory system and airway patency
   2. Manage upper/lower airway obstructions and conditions such as asthma, COPD, pulmonary embolism, and ARDS
   3. Utilize oxygen delivery systems, CPAP/BiPAP, and advanced airway devices including endotracheal intubation
4. Analyze Respiratory Physiology and Pathophysiology
   1. Explain mechanics of ventilation, gas exchange, and acid-base regulation.
   2. Manage causes of hypoxia, hypercapnia, and respiratory failure through proper identification
5. Exhibit Shock Recognition and Management
   1. Differentiate between types of shock (hypovolemic, cardiogenic, distributive, obstructive)
   2. Apply interventions including fluid resuscitation, bleeding control, vasopressors, and airway support
   3. Recognize signs of decompensation in order to initiate rapid transport and stabilization measures
6. Demonstrate Resuscitation and Post-Resuscitation Care
   1. Initiate team-based high-performance CPR in accordance with ACLS guidelines
   2. Manage ROSC (return of spontaneous circulation) including airway control, oxygenation, ECG monitoring, and transport planning
   3. Address peri-intubation arrest risks, implementing advanced monitoring (EtCO₂, SpO₂) through proper recognition
7. Exhibit Clinical Integration and Decision-Making
   1. Integrate assessment findings and diagnostic data into differential diagnoses and treatment plans
   2. Adjust care for dynamic presentations, scene conditions, and evolving patient needs
8. Apply Pharmacologic Interventions in Cardiac and Respiratory Care
   1. Safely administer medications relevant to cardiac and respiratory emergencies.
   2. Apply knowledge of pharmacokinetics/dynamics, medication safety, and patient-specific considerations (e.g., age, comorbidities)
9. Examine Special Population Adaptations
   1. Modify assessment and management strategies for pediatric, geriatric, pregnant, and special needs patients
   2. Recognize atypical presentations in high-risk populations (e.g., silent MI in elderly)
10. Demonstrate Effective Communication, Documentation, and Teamwork
    1. Accurately document cardiac and respiratory assessments, interventions, and outcomes
    2. Lead or support roles in team-based scenarios using closed-loop communication and CRM (crew resource management)
    3. Report critical findings effectively to receiving facilities using MIST/SBAR
11. Exhibit Evidence-Based Practice and Quality Improvement
    1. Apply AHA, NAEMSP, and ILCOR guidelines in cardiac, respiratory, and shock care
    2. Participate in case reviews, cardiac arrest registries, and continuous improvement efforts