What's a Paramedic - Dr. Alan Batt
Critical Levels
What is a paramedic — really? In this thought-provoking episode of Critical Levels, Zach sits down with Dr. Alan Batt to unpack the evolving identity, responsibilities, and future of the paramedic profession. Together, they explore the disconnect between what paramedics are trained for versus what they actually do, the consequences of outdated education models, and the urgent need for professionalization and system-level change. They discuss: Why current training doesn’t match real-world workload How we define scope, identity, and autonomy in modern paramedicine The concept of career...
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Neonates - Anthony Iacolucci
Critical Levels
Neonates are one of the most feared patient populations in EMS—and for good reason. In this episode, Zach Cantor talks with Anthony Iacolucci, a pediatric respiratory therapist and paramedic, about how to confidently approach neonatal calls. Anthony introduces NEO SECRETS, a practical acronym covering the top 10 causes of neonatal illness, and offers insight into assessment, common pitfalls, and key treatment considerations. NEO SECRETS Breakdown: • N – Inborn errors of metabolism • E...
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Data-Driven Resuscitation & Seamless Transitions
Critical Levels
In this episode of Critical Levels, we dive into the cutting-edge strategies shaping pre-hospital and emergency department care. Our guests discuss how data-driven decision-making, high-performance CPR, and improved handover processes are revolutionizing patient outcomes. Key Topics Covered: ✅ High-Performance CPR: The role of real-time feedback, mechanical CPR devices, and quality metrics in improving survival rates. ✅ Data-Driven Protocols: How data influences resuscitation techniques, including push-dose epinephrine, early vasopressor administration, and optimizing CPR pauses. ✅...
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K9 Medicine - Dr. Jason Donohoe
Critical Levels
🔹 Key Topics: 🔸 Why medics need to understand K9 trauma care The overlap between human and canine emergency medicine Common injuries in police, military, and search-and-rescue dogs 🔸 MARCH for Canines—What’s Different? The first "M" stands for Muzzle—securing the dog’s “weapon” before treatment Understanding the similarities in trauma care between humans and dogs Key differences in how canines respond to injury and shock 🔸 Massive Hemorrhage Control—Why Tourniquets Don’t Work on Dogs Anatomical challenges—why dogs' limbs aren’t suited for tourniquets When...
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Frostbite - Dr. Maria Doubova
Critical Levels
In this episode of Critical Levels, we tackle frostbite with Dr. Maria Doubova, exploring its pathophysiology, symptoms, and treatment. From outdoor enthusiasts to vulnerable populations, frostbite affects diverse groups. Learn about early early recognition and management of frostbite - from mild frostnip to severe cases requiring advanced interventions - and the latest classification system to improve outcomes in this insightful discussion. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: What frostbite is and who is most at risk. Symptoms and early detection techniques. Frostbite...
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TXA - Dr Erik Vu
Critical Levels
Welcome to the first episode of 2025! This month, we’re diving into the critical role of Tranexamic Acid (TXA) in pre-hospital trauma care. Dr. Erik Vu, a critical care flight paramedic, emergency physician, and intensivist, joins us to discuss the latest insights and applications of TXA, particularly in dynamic and tactical environments. From its role in stabilizing clots to its use in mass casualty scenarios, we break down everything you need to know about this cost-effective and life-saving medication. Learn about the benefits of intramuscular (IM) administration, the importance of timely...
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Prehospital Blood - Dr. Antevy
Critical Levels
On this month’s episode, we are going to talk about prehospital blood administration with Dr. Peter Antevy Some topics covered are: Historical trauma management Blood why blood components administration ratios blood type Blood administration who do we give blood to medical vs trauma (blunt vs penetrating) elderly vs peds vital sign parameters when do we administer it how do we give it IO vs IV (size matters…) temperature Logistics how do we get it patient side cold chain storage temperature management training (initial...
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Trauma-Informed Care for Children Youth - Marita Smith
Critical Levels
How prepared do you feel to care for children and youth who have experienced abuse or assault? 1 in 10 Canadians (7.8%) over 15 report at least one instance of sexual abuse before age 15 () Up to 88% of people being trafficked access health care () - many don’t disclose they are being trafficked Highest rates of intimate partner violence occur between age 12-24 () Young people aged 15-24 years have the highest rate of sexual assault () In this episode, we will explore the presentation of sexual abuse, sexual assault and sex trafficking in the pediatric setting and discuss trauma and...
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CANSOFCOM - Steve & Andrew
Critical Levels
On this month’s episode, we dive deep into the world of military medicine with special forces paramedics, pulling back the veil of secrecy surrounding their vital work. Join us as we explore the unique challenges and high-stakes scenarios these elite medics faced on the front lines. From advanced trauma care in combat zones to the mental resilience required for their demanding roles, our guests share their incredible experiences and insights. What is CANSOFCOM/JTF 2? What is your role within the team? What does training look like? Medical vs trauma treatment TCCC MARCHE management ...
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Paramedic Violence - Dr Justin Mausz
Critical Levels
On this month’s episode, we’re joined by Dr. Justin Mausz to discuss violence against paramedics. During the episode, you’ll hear us cover: How often are we seeing violence against paramedics What is violence? Is it different from harassment? Does intent matter? Incident reporting How does it compare to other industries? What does violence against paramedics look like? How do we balance paramedic and patient safety? What do we do with this? PPE Policy development External vs internal violence The value of research
info_outlineIn this episode of Critical Levels, we tackle frostbite with Dr. Maria Doubova, exploring its pathophysiology, symptoms, and treatment. From outdoor enthusiasts to vulnerable populations, frostbite affects diverse groups. Learn about early early recognition and management of frostbite - from mild frostnip to severe cases requiring advanced interventions - and the latest classification system to improve outcomes in this insightful discussion.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
What frostbite is and who is most at risk.
Symptoms and early detection techniques.
Frostbite classifications and their significance for prognosis.
Practical pre-hospital and hospital management strategies.
How frostbite overlaps with hypothermia and what to watch for.