Number of Courses:  One Live 2-Hour Class
Credit Awarded:  2 Hours
Credit Type: Advanced
Accredited: IBSC, CAPCE (F5-VILT), CE Broker (FL & TN), Pennsylvania Bureau of EMS, and Virginia Office of EMS
Enrollment Period:  One year or until completed, whichever comes first
Topics: Medical Emergencies

This CE activity is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Pre-Hospital Continuing Education for a total of 2 Paramedic Critical Care CEH.

Are you in need of a few critical care hours to round out your FP-C or CCP-C recertification? Or just want something different to put towards your NRP recertification? This individual Critical Care course will meet those needs.

IBSC Board for Critical Care Transport Paramedic Certification APPROVED!

Want to see when classes are offered, click here DistanceCME Course Calendar

Topics covered in this Live CCTR L12

  • Medical Emergencies (2 hr)

If you need more than a few hours, this program is perfect for your continuing education: Critical Care Transport Review. The Critical Care Transport program can also be used for your NREMT Recertification.

Course Overview
Endocrine emergencies can disrupt glucose regulation, fluid balance, metabolism, and cardiovascular stability. This comprehensive course reviews the hormonal systems that maintain homeostasis and the consequences of abnormal hormone production or response. Participants explore diabetic emergencies, thyroid disorders, and disturbances of water regulation while connecting endocrine physiology with assessment and monitoring priorities in critical care transport.

Endocrine Physiology & Hormonal Regulation
Learners examine how hormones coordinate communication between organs and help regulate metabolism, growth, perfusion, and the stress response. The course reviews the major endocrine glands and the feedback mechanisms that control hormone release. Participants explore how excessive or inadequate secretion, impaired receptor response, and disrupted hormone delivery can contribute to illness.

Pancreatic Function & Diabetes Mellitus
This section reviews the roles of insulin and glucagon in maintaining blood glucose levels, including glucose uptake, glycogen storage, and release of stored energy. Participants examine differences between insulin deficiency and insulin resistance. The course connects these mechanisms with type 1 and type 2 diabetes and the development of acute glucose-related complications.

Hypoglycemia & Hyperglycemia
Participants explore causes of hypoglycemia, including medication effects, inadequate dietary intake, alcohol use, and underlying organ dysfunction. The course reviews glucose replacement considerations across age groups and the importance of reassessment following treatment. Learners also examine hyperglycemia and dehydration, distinguishing elevated glucose from more complex metabolic emergencies.

Diabetic Ketoacidosis & Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State
Learners examine diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS), with attention to differences in ketosis, acid-base status, and serum osmolarity. The course reviews precipitating factors, fluid resuscitation, insulin therapy, and electrolyte monitoring. Participants also explore ventilation considerations in metabolic acidosis and the importance of following glucose and potassium trends during ongoing treatment.

Thyroid Disorders & Endocrine Decompensation
This section explores thyroid hormone production and the effects of excessive or insufficient thyroid activity. Participants review hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, Graves disease, and Hashimoto disease before examining thyroid storm and myxedema coma. The course connects changes in temperature, mental status, ventilation, and hemodynamics with the recognition of severe thyroid-related illness.

Antidiuretic Hormone & Water Balance Disorders
Participants examine the role of antidiuretic hormone in renal water regulation and the consequences of abnormal secretion or response. The course reviews syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH) and diabetes insipidus, including contributing conditions and medication effects. Learners explore hydration assessment, electrolyte monitoring, urine output, and hormone replacement considerations during transport.

Pituitary, Parathyroid & Adrenal Function
Learners review the pituitary gland’s role in coordinating endocrine activity and the potential effects of pituitary tumors on hormone secretion. The course also introduces parathyroid regulation of calcium and the functions of the adrenal cortex and medulla. Participants connect cortisol, aldosterone, and catecholamines with the regulation of metabolism, blood pressure, electrolyte balance, and the stress response.

Clinical Integration
Throughout the course, endocrine physiology is linked to patient presentation and ongoing assessment. Participants examine how changes in consciousness, glucose, hydration, and cardiovascular status can reflect hormonal disturbances. Emphasis remains on monitoring treatment response, recognizing complications, and maintaining continuity of prescribed therapies during critical care transport.

Who Should Take This Course?
This course is designed for paramedics involved in critical care transport who are seeking a comprehensive review of diabetic and endocrine emergencies. As Lesson 12 of the Critical Care Transport Review series, it supports the assessment and ongoing management of patients with glucose disturbances, thyroid dysfunction, and disorders of hormonal water regulation.