Dan Limmer

I might be considered a bit prejudiced since I am an author of the EMPACT book but I wanted to take a moment to respond to your post. Some of the material is designed for ALS providers. I do believe there is a significant clinical benefit for EMTs to take the EMPACT class. I hope during the class that you learned about the importance of the history in the medical patient (a BLS skill) and the concept of differential diagnostic thinking (also can be performed by EMTs). Some of the pathophysiology may have helped you fill in some blanks in the hows and whys of things. The EMT-B course doesn't teach those things and I believe they are very valuable. The history is so important in the medical patient. Most elements of the physical examination can also be performed by the EMT. Now I hope you understand that better. I believe that these elements are so much more challenging than the treatment. Most treatments are protocol driven. The real challenge is to make the right call on the patient's condition so you apply the correct protocol. This is what EMPACT is about. I suspect that you will see the application of the course as you go on calls and can apply what you have learned. You should also find the book a good resource to brush up on medical complaints and emergencies now that you have finished the class. Please let me know if you see a difference in your practice after you have been out there a while post-course. Of course if you have any suggestions please send them our way. Thanks. Dan Limmer