Tip of the Month: Mastering 12-Lead ECG Interpretation of STEMI

Accurate interpretation of a 12-lead ECG is essential for paramedics in identifying ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarctions (STEMI) in the prehospital setting. While computerized interpretation tools offer valuable support, paramedics must be proficient in recognizing subtle signs, such as ST-segment elevation, reciprocal changes, and potential mimics like left bundle branch block or pericarditis. This skill enables paramedics to differentiate true STEMI from other conditions, ensuring timely and appropriate interventions, such as activating a STEMI bypass protocol or expediting transport to a PCI-capable facility, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

The successful handover

Effective communication between paramedics and receiving staff is crucial in the delivery of emergency medicine. The interaction of the patient report serves as a vital link in the chain of patient care, ensuring that critical information regarding a patient’s condition is accurately relayed and understood. Clear communication impacts positively on patient outcomes, patient safety, and promotes timely and high quality care. As emergencies can be fast paced and stressful, communication failures often result from a disorganized approach, therefore structure is paramount in ensuring a successful patient report.

Understanding Croup and Differentiating from Other Conditions

Assessing and managing the pediatric airway can be challenging, especially when dealing with conditions like croup, epiglottitis, and other respiratory pathologies. Here is what you need to know.

As paramedics, understanding the nuances between heat illness, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke is crucial for effective and timely intervention, especially during the summer months. Heat-related emergencies range from mild heat illness to severe heat stroke, and recognizing the signs and symptoms can be life-saving. This tip of the month provides evidence-based education on these conditions, highlighting clinical exam findings and treatment considerations aligned with the Ontario Basic Life Support Patient Care Standards (BLS PCS).