nsmedic393 - this one is for you

[Asysin2leads]

My weigh in on IV's:

In paramedic class, one of my preceptors, in quizing me about an IV said, and I quote "You know that's a minor surgical procedure you're doing there, right?", and he was right. IV's may not seem very difficult and simple to do, and to an extent they are, but then there are the risks of an IV:

Introduction of a pathogen directly into the bloodstream: Bacteria that normally we don't care about can cause you a lot of problems if it by passes your immune system and goes directly into your blood, particularly on someone who is a child, sick, or elderly.

Exsanguination: Yep, screw up with a large bore IV on someone who is on a blood thinner and you can have a real mess on your hands.

Damage to underlying structures: Hit a tendon, hit a nerve, hit an artery, I hope you have malpractice insurance.

Sticking yourself: You gots to be careful.

That being said, think of the lowest common denominator in allowing a new skill to be introduced to a lower level. You can't just let the good ones do it, you have to let EVERYONE do it. So, reread the above risks, then think of the dumbest, thickest, backwoods EMT who passed with a %70 on the written and had to redo two skills stations, and ask yourself, "Would I want them starting an IV on my family member?"

[Ridryder 911]

My weigh in on IV's: So, reread the above risks, then think of the dumbest, thickest, backwoods EMT who passed with a %70 on the written and had to redo two skills stations, and ask yourself, "Would I want them starting an IV on my family member?"

Funny I always thought of the dumbest old city boys....lol

Not trying to hijack thread, but when discussing rotations.. My program required 200 clock clinical hours in cardiology one on one with physician and specialty care 300 hours. They were selected ER physicians to do your internship with. Sorry, no EMT uniforms allowed.. had to be white lab coat, business dress (shirt/tie or formal dress) You were to be treated and have the knowledge basically of an intern. The student did the initial assessment and orders, then reviewed by physician. Great learning experience to think outside the box, you learn very fast we are just the tip of emergency medicine.

Detailed assessments, wide knowledge base both pre-hospital and inner-hospital was expected. You did not proceed further until blessed by these Doc's. The Doc's now being used are former Paramedics, that have a very good working knowledge of EMS.

Be safe,

R/r 911

[Scaramedic]

I's here to start yor eye vee!

Peace,

Marty

:thumbleft:

[ALERT Medic]

Best post yet Marty!