You’ve been dispatched - to our blog! A place where we share Emergency Medical Services advice, information, upcoming research, gear, courses, and opinions. Based in Calgary Alberta, our Advanced First Aid, Intermediate First Aid, and Basic First Aid courses are taught by real EMS professionals. We teach Red Cross programs, Heart and Stroke, ITLS, NRP and more. We educate to inspire the confidence needed to successfully deal with emergencies. We create professionals. We Create Professionals.
We believe in recognizing leadership and advancing the paramedic profession. We contribute to initiatives that are devoted to first aid education, emergency medical research and emergency education.
Bedtime can be a stressful time for babysitters, especially when it comes to getting kids to sleep. In this blog post, we'll provide you with tips and techniques to help you create a calm, soothing, and consistent bedtime routine that promotes healthy sleep habits and supports the child's overall health and well-being.
Read MoreWith the unprecedented hot and dry weather, high winds, and the prevalence of wildfires in Alberta, being prepared for fire evacuations is crucial. This blog provides valuable information on understanding the current extreme weather conditions, mitigating fire hazards, staying informed with the Alberta Wildfire app, and assembling an evacuation bag with essential items. Familiarize yourself with fire-prone areas, adopt fire-smart practices, and know the importance of emergency notifications and evacuation routes. Let's stay informed, prepared, and grateful for the dedicated firefighters working tirelessly to keep us safe.
Read MoreAspirin and nitroglycerin are two medications that are commonly used by first responders to treat chest pain or suspected heart attack. Aspirin is a platelet inhibitor that helps to prevent blood clots from forming and reduces the risk of further damage to the heart. Nitroglycerin is a vasodilator that helps to increase blood flow to the heart by dilating blood vessels, which reduces the workload on the heart muscle.
While these medications can be effective in treating chest pain or suspected heart attack, it's important for first responders to be familiar with their uses, risks, and benefits, and to follow established protocols and guidelines when administering them. Aspirin and nitroglycerin can have potential side effects and contraindications, so it's important to use them only as directed and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
To ensure the safety and well-being of their patients, first responders should also educate patients about the benefits and risks of aspirin and nitroglycerin, and the importance of seeking medical follow-up after receiving these medications. By working closely with healthcare professionals and following established protocols and guidelines, first responders can provide effective care and help ensure the safety and well-being of their patients.
Read MoreShock is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when there is inadequate blood flow to the body's tissues and organs. There are several different types of shock, including hypovolemic shock (caused by severe blood loss), cardiogenic shock (caused by heart failure), obstructive shock (caused by a physical obstruction), and distributive shock (caused by a loss of blood vessel tone).
Common symptoms of shock include rapid breathing, rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, confusion or disorientation, and pale or cool skin. If left untreated, shock can lead to organ failure and even death.
Effective treatment of shock depends on identifying the underlying cause and quickly providing appropriate interventions. This may include providing high-flow oxygen, addressing the underlying cause (such as stopping severe bleeding), and closely monitoring the patient's vital signs.
Read MoreDeadly bleeds can happen anytime, anywhere, and being prepared to handle them can mean the difference between life and death. Standard first aiders should be equipped with the knowledge and skills to identify different types of bleeds, as well as the appropriate techniques to manage them.
Read MoreAs a babysitter, it's important to be prepared for any situation that may arise while caring for children. One of the best ways to ensure that you're always ready is by having a well-stocked babysitter kit. In this post, we'll discuss the essential items that should be included in your kit, including first aid supplies, games and arts and crafts, emergency contacts, and a change of clothes.
Read MoreCOPD is a chronic respiratory disease that affects millions of people worldwide, causing damage to the lungs and making it increasingly difficult to breathe. In this post, we will discuss the causes of COPD, the symptoms associated with the condition, and the available treatments that can help manage its symptoms.
Read MoreHypoxia is a serious medical condition that can be caused by a range of factors, including respiratory conditions, cardiac emergencies, trauma, and drug overdose. However, one potential cause that is often overlooked is smoke inhalation and carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.
Inhaling smoke from a fire can expose individuals to high levels of CO, a poisonous gas that can cause hypoxia by binding to hemoglobin in the blood and reducing the amount of oxygen that can be carried to the body's tissues. It's important to note that carbon monoxide poisoning can cause the SpO2 monitor to read a normal oxygen saturation level, even when the individual is experiencing hypoxia. Therefore, administering high-flow oxygen is crucial for any fire patient, as it can help displace carbon monoxide and increase the amount of oxygen available to the body's tissues.
As an advanced first aider, it's important to be familiar with the signs and symptoms of hypoxia, particularly in cases of smoke inhalation and CO poisoning. Symptoms may include cyanosis, shortness of breath, and altered mental status. Administering high-flow oxygen and working closely with emergency medical services personnel and hospital staff can help ensure that individuals receive appropriate care and follow-up treatment for their condition.
Overall, understanding the potential for hypoxia in smoke inhalation and carbon monoxide poisoning is critical for providing effective care in the prehospital setting. Administering high-flow oxygen and working closely with other healthcare providers can help ensure that individuals receive timely and effective treatment for their condition.
Read MoreWith summer comes the risk of heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Anyone can experience these conditions when exposed to high temperatures for extended periods. Certain groups, such as infants, the elderly, and those with chronic medical conditions, are at higher risk. Taking steps like staying hydrated, avoiding prolonged sun exposure, and taking breaks in cool or shaded areas can help prevent heat emergencies. In this post, we'll cover the differences between heat exhaustion and heat stroke, the groups most vulnerable, and first aid measures for managing heat emergencies.
Read MoreBeing a babysitter can be both rewarding and challenging, especially when it comes to keeping children safe in emergency situations. As a babysitter, you are responsible for the well-being of the children in your care, and knowing when to call 911 can be a matter of life and death.
In this guide, we will walk you through the common emergency situations that you may encounter as a babysitter and provide you with practical tips on how to handle them. From injuries and illnesses to fires and natural disasters, we'll cover it all so that you can be prepared for any situation.
By the end of this guide, you'll have the knowledge and confidence to act quickly and appropriately in the event of an emergency, ensuring the safety and well-being of the children in your care.
Read MoreAs a babysitter, it can be challenging to find activities and games that don't involve screen time. However, there are plenty of fun and engaging options that can promote children's creativity, learning, and physical activity. From arts and crafts to outdoor play and board games, here are some examples of non-screen time activities that a babysitter can do with children.
Read MoreFirst responders play a critical role in emergency situations, including managing the breathing of patients. In this blog, we will discuss the importance of breathing management for first responders and provide tips for ensuring the best possible outcomes for patients.
Read MoreTo provide first aid for bites and stings, it's important to stay calm and identify the type of bite or sting. For insect stings, remove the stinger and clean the area, then apply a cold compress and take pain relievers. For bites from animals like snakes or spiders, seek medical attention immediately and keep the affected limb immobilized. If a severe allergic reaction occurs, call 911 or seek emergency medical attention. To prevent bites and stings, wear protective clothing and use insect repellent.
Read MoreNasopharyngeal airways (NPA) and oropharyngeal airways (OPA) are commonly used in healthcare settings to maintain a patient's airway and assist with breathing.When used correctly, NPAs can help clients who may be experiencing respiratory distress during certain treatments. However, it's important to have the necessary knowledge and protocols in place to safely insert and monitor the device. At Delta Emergency Support Training, we can help you learn how to safely use NPAs in spa settings and beyond. Our training sessions include a range of courses, including Standard First Aid (SFA), Advanced First Aid (AFA), and Emergency Medical Responder (EMR), and we offer in-person, hybrid, and online options to suit different needs. Contact us at info@deltaemergency.com to learn more about our training sessions and how we can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to respond to emergency situations effectively.
Read MoreVital signs are measurements of the body's basic functions and are used to assess a person's overall health and wellbeing. There are four primary vital signs: body temperature, pulse rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate. Each vital sign provides important information about a person's health and can help identify underlying health conditions or other problems.
Body temperature is a measure of the body's internal heat and is typically measured using a thermometer. A fever is generally defined as a body temperature above 100.4°F (38°C) and can indicate an infection or other underlying health condition.
Pulse rate is a measure of the heart rate, or the number of times the heart beats per minute. A rapid pulse may indicate a fever, dehydration, or an irregular heartbeat, while a slow pulse may indicate heart disease or other health conditions.
Blood pressure is a measure of the force of blood against the walls of arteries as the heart pumps blood through the body. High blood pressure, or hypertension, can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health problems.
Respiratory rate is a measure of the number of breaths a person takes per minute. A rapid respiratory rate may indicate an underlying health condition, such as asthma or pneumonia.
Monitoring vital signs is an essential part of healthcare and can help healthcare professionals and first responders make informed decisions about treatment and care.
Read MoreDepending on the severity of the burn, it can be a painful and potentially life-threatening injury. Superficial burns only affect the outer layer of skin and typically result in redness, pain, and mild swelling. Partial-thickness burns affect both the outer and underlying layer of skin and can result in blisters, severe pain, and swelling. Full-thickness burns are the most severe type of burn, affecting all layers of skin and potentially even deeper tissue. Full-thickness burns can result in blackened or charred skin and can cause nerve damage, muscle and bone damage, and even death.
If you or someone else experiences a burn, providing first aid as soon as possible is crucial for promoting healing and preventing complications. The first step is to remove the source of the burn, such as a hot object or a chemical. Then, run cool (not cold) water over the burned area for at least 10-20 minutes. After that, cover the burn with a sterile, non-adhesive bandage or cloth. If the burn is severe, seek medical attention immediately.
Read MoreEncountering an elderly or geriatric person who has fallen can be a difficult and distressing experience. Falls are a common problem among older adults and can lead to serious injuries, such as broken bones, head trauma, and bruises. It's important to approach the situation with care and sensitivity and take steps to provide appropriate assistance. Whether you're a family member, caregiver, or passerby, knowing what to do when you find an injured elderly person who has fallen can help to ensure their safety and well-being. In this blog post, we'll explore some general steps you can take to provide valuable assistance and help to ensure that the person receives the care and treatment they need.
Read MoreSure! Here's an excerpt for "Maximize Your Babysitting Skills with the BEST: Babysitter Essential Support Training for Super Sitters":
As a babysitter, it's important to have the skills and knowledge necessary to provide safe and effective care for children. That's where the BEST program comes in. The Babysitter Essential Support Training (BEST) is a comprehensive training program designed to help sitters maximize their babysitting skills.
The BEST program covers a wide range of topics, including child development, safety, first aid and CPR, discipline, and communication. With the BEST program, you'll learn how to identify and respond to common childhood emergencies, such as choking and allergic reactions. You'll also learn how to manage challenging behavior and communicate effectively with parents.
In addition to the comprehensive training curriculum, the BEST program also provides ongoing support and resources for sitters. This includes access to a community of fellow sitters, as well as tools and resources to help you succeed in your babysitting career.
By completing the BEST program, you'll have the knowledge and confidence to provide exceptional care for children, while also setting yourself apart as a professional and reliable babysitter. So why wait? Enroll in the BEST program today and start maximizing your babysitting skills!
Read MoreThe Canadian Red Cross Basic Life Support (BLS) recertification course is designed to provide physiotherapists with the latest training and techniques to manage emergency situations effectively. This course covers a wide range of topics, including the assessment of vital signs, airway management, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and automated external defibrillation (AED).
One of the key features of this course is the use of a Simulaids Airway Trainer, which allows participants to practice the insertion of various airway devices, such as oropharyngeal and nasopharyngeal airways. This tool helps participants gain hands-on experience in managing airway obstruction and ensures they are comfortable handling airway devices in real-life situations.
Another valuable tool utilized in this course is the Prestan Professional Mannikins, which come equipped with a Bluetooth app for CPR results. This app allows participants to track their CPR performance and receive immediate feedback, enabling them to adjust their technique accordingly.
Through a combination of practical and theoretical training, this course provides physiotherapists with the confidence and skills needed to respond to life-threatening emergencies effectively. By completing the Canadian Red Cross BLS recertification course, physiotherapists can ensure they are fully prepared to provide the highest level of care to their patients.
Read MoreResponding to Mass Casualty Incidents is a critical aspect of emergency preparedness and response. Whether it's a natural disaster, a terrorist attack, or an accident, the ability to quickly and effectively manage large numbers of injured victims can mean the difference between life and death. In such situations, emergency responders must work together to triage, treat, and transport the injured to medical facilities. They must also ensure that the scene is secure and that all necessary resources are available to address the needs of those affected.
Read More
