Tara Vlaun, NRP, CCP-C, EMS-I, Author at DistanceCME

About Tara Vlaun, NRP, CCP-C, EMS-I

Tara Vlaun, NRP, CCP-C, EMS-I, began her paramedic career in 2002 when she worked as a ground paramedic. She went to fire school in 2003, and continued her career as a firefighter/paramedic until late 2010. She spent the remaining years in the field as a flight paramedic until 2017.

Time to reassess fluids for chronic heart failure patients

While the topic remains up for debate as to exactly how much fluid these patients should have, there is supportive evidence to allow for a moderate intake for chronic heart failure patients, since the fluid overload is not within the systemic circulation.

Weather events increase carbon monoxide exposure risk

We are likely going to be on high alert for carbon monoxide poisoning during times of power outages, but there are some things we can keep in mind as we assess the situation for safety.

Patient safety challenges our healthcare system

Despite the increase in sound healthcare practices, there is still a high number of injuries to patients. If we approach every single patient with safety in mind, we will be less likely to skip important steps.

Suicide epidemic touches us all in some way

Suicides are on the rise overall. In fact, I'd say we have a suicide epidemic. Statistics in a new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have shown a 30% increase in suicides since 1999, Additionally, it is now one of the top 10 causes of death in the U.S. — surpassing homicide.

The role of paramedicine moving towards the future

The role of paramedicine is changing. While traditional EMS and paramedic roles still abound, more professionals are becoming community paramedics. Community paramedicine appeals to many paramedics because it allows them to provide more personalized care, often in underserved areas.

CPP or Cerebral Perfusion Pressure

Studies have shown that even one incidence of a systolic pressure less than 90 can double the mortality rate in a head injured patient with increasing intra-cranial pressure. While watching the systolic pressure is acceptable, MAP is a more informed way to maintain adequate Cerebral Perfusion Pressure (CPP).

Protect your patient too!

Most of us are guilty of poor EMS hygiene. This could be as simple as not gloving up to perform a patient assessment on a little old grandmother. But, when we think we could be exposing ourselves to anything yucky, we glove up… even double glove. Remember, gloves protect patients too!

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