rescuecaptain

Just to weigh in, unless the gag reflex is severely depressed you will have a fight on your hands. Georgia only allows RSI on air services with the exception of a few test studies. In my service we intubate when needed and then and only then we can give versed. For years we used the term "trismus" to get the point across that conscious intubation is rough and barbaric as hell. We as a profession need sweeping reforms to ensure we are giving competent, compassionate care. Fighting with a patient with an intact gag reflex is not compassionate. The John Wayne days should be over. Something has got to give. Just a few thoughts.

We have implemented the new CPR. One huge change we have seen is we now take at least 2 first responders on all arrests to do nothing but CPR.We can regularly have 45min to 1 hour transport times. I have had in the last 6 shifts 4 arrest situations. 2 made it and 2 didn't. 79yo and 73 yo didn't. 16 yo and 57 yo made it. One significant change I have seen is going out of the gate with 360 joules. I think that is a positive change. I haven't seen any studies to see the difference in overcoming inter thoracic resistance. It simplifies the process. If increased CPR saves life then we need to get off our tails and do what is best for the patient if it doesn't then we need to fix it. Just a few thoughts.

Hello all. Just to weigh in Georgia has NR in place for state testing. We have NR first responders, Intermediates and Paramedics. Georgia will accept 85 or 99 program of study. Georgia will not allow a EMT-b to work on an ambulance. These folks can work on BLS fire engines. They cant even drive the med unit. All levels are certifications with the exception of the paramedic, it is licensed. North Carolina will accept all levels of NR with reciprocity with the exception of paramedic. You must test the NC State test. They also have all levels in that state, Medical Responder, Basic, Intermediate, Paramedic. One little extra twist with NC, is that once you pass the state test, you must sit oral and practical boards with that county's medical director. Tennessee will take only NR for original testing. The emt's must have additional certs for every thing else ( ie: IV Defib Extrication etc) they have a hell of a lot of rockers on their sleeves.