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Back to Basics

Back to Basics

By Chris Seitz, MD and Jason Seitz, EMT-P, RN

Guardian Test Prep is dedicated to helping students prepare for and pass the NREMT. Our Back to Basics podcast was created to make what are sometimes complex medical topics easy to understand and retain for students of emergency medicine. Check out more of our content at www.guardiantestprep.com
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Taking a look at Acute Vision Loss

Back to BasicsOct 13, 2021

00:00
38:18
Foundation of Stroke and Stroke Recognition

Foundation of Stroke and Stroke Recognition

Stroke affects 795,000 Americans each year and is the 2nd leading cause of death and 3rd leading cause of death & disability combined worldwide. Globally, Stroke also results in over $721 billion in annual cost and $53 billion in US annual cost between 2017 and 2018. Stroke is an important area for healthcare professionals to concentrate on to make a difference in patient's lives, but before we can understand how to help, we have to understand what we are up against.

Jan 17, 202435:17
Big changes at Guardian and Back to Basics - Dec 2023 Update

Big changes at Guardian and Back to Basics - Dec 2023 Update

I promise you we haven’t been asleep at the switch and will be bringing you quite a bit of content very soon. Some of which I’ll allow you to peek behind the curtain with me and get a snippet of today. So buckle up for the next couple minutes to find out what new things are coming to Guardian, and then on to hear a short 30-minute lecture on toxicology from our NREMT test prep program.

Dec 06, 202336:50
“11 out of 10” - Pain Management

“11 out of 10” - Pain Management

 “How would you rate your pain today on a scale of 1 to 10?” Answer: “11/10” We hear it all the time, and as providers can be quick to judge claims of severe pain as lies to gain opiates, or overreactions to illicit faster care. The truth of the matter is that pain is a symptom that is misunderstood and stigmatized. Pain management is an essential part of what we do as providers and patient comfort has more benefits to healing than you might think. In today’s episode, we’ll discuss pain and its unique challenges to treatment.

Sep 07, 202301:13:32
Antibiotics and the Threat of Antibiotic Resistance

Antibiotics and the Threat of Antibiotic Resistance

Ever wonder how Antibiotics work? How do they differ from Antivirals? If they're so great, why don’t we just always take or prescribe them so we don’t get sick? Is Antibiotic resistance a real threat? Well, we hope you wonder about these things because that’s what Jason spent all week researching to teach you in this one. Enjoy!”

Aug 17, 202358:41
Advanced Cardiac Life Support Part 2

Advanced Cardiac Life Support Part 2

Advanced Cardiac Life Support is a staple training in the medical industry and for good reason. Its algorithms teach comprehensive and effective responses for the most common types of cardiac emergencies. Join Chris and Jason in this episode as they take the “A” in ACLS back to “B” Part 2 of 2

Jul 26, 202301:01:03
Advanced Cardiac Life Support Part 1

Advanced Cardiac Life Support Part 1

Advanced Cardiac Life Support is a staple training in the medical industry and for good reason. Its algorithms teach comprehensive and effective responses for the most common types of cardiac emergencies. Join Chris and Jason in this episode as they take the “A” in ACLS back to “B” Part 1 of 2


Jun 22, 202352:01
"Everybody’s Doing It” - Bowel Elimination and Why it Matters

"Everybody’s Doing It” - Bowel Elimination and Why it Matters

In this rather Crappy episode, Chris and Jason talk about Bowel elimination, and why we should be paying close attention to it. The GI system plays an important role in maintaining our body's health, and when things go wrong you and your patients may find yourself in deep doody. Glove up, plug your nose, and let's get to work.

Jun 08, 202349:21
"Breaking Bad Badly" - Meth and Other Non-Opioid Illicit Drugs

"Breaking Bad Badly" - Meth and Other Non-Opioid Illicit Drugs

"Breaking Bad Badly" - Meth and Other Non-Opioid Illicit Drugs

May 18, 202338:13
Episode II “Force Injuries”

Episode II “Force Injuries”

May the 4th be with you. Always. 

May 04, 202324:44
Sepsis - "The Sickest Syndrome"

Sepsis - "The Sickest Syndrome"

We’ve all experienced an infection in our lives, but what happens if we can’t kick it? Today the Seitz brothers cover our bodies' overwhelming and life-threatening response to infection, known as sepsis. Why does it happen? How can we assess for it? Who is at risk? What do we do when we discover it? Take a listen for the answers to these questions and more.

Apr 19, 202341:47
"Ringing Your Bell" - Concussions and Head Injuries

"Ringing Your Bell" - Concussions and Head Injuries

Put your helmet on for this one folks!  In this episode, Jason and Chris cover Traumatic Brain Injuries. What's the difference between a concussion, a subdural hematoma, and intracranial hemorrhage? Can you  go to sleep after suffering a concussion? What happens inside his brain when Jason spends the afternoon slamming his head into medical textbooks? Get the answers to all these questions and more!


Mar 30, 202342:23
50th Anniversary Episode

50th Anniversary Episode

Back to Basics has turned 50! These last two years have been an adventure and we are glad you joined us for the journey. In this episode, Chris and Jason discuss how Back 2 Basics started and what the future holds. As always, we look forward to hearing your feedback on the podcast and topics you want Chris and Jason to discuss. Stay sweet!

Mar 15, 202325:01
C02 and You - Capnography

C02 and You - Capnography

End Tidal C02 is one of the most underrated vital signs out there. We’ve ignored this useful tool long enough. Join Jason and Chris as they describe how using this simple device can improve your understanding of your patient's respiratory physiology, acid/base balance, and even improve your resuscitative efforts.

Feb 16, 202349:25
Basic Life Support

Basic Life Support

BLS - all providers need it, but do we really know it, or is it just a class we snooze through every two years? Basic Life Support is quite literally the foundation of life-saving techniques that all providers should be not just acquainted with but know thoroughly. In this episode, the Seitz brothers truly take you back to the basics, breaking down the ABCs of, well….the ABCs.

Feb 01, 202352:13
Back to Basics and EMS20/20 Pacing/Pressor Pressure

Back to Basics and EMS20/20 Pacing/Pressor Pressure

The crossover event of the century! In this episode Back to Basics and EMS 20/20 combine all of their medical zords into one giant medical megazord of knowledge and fun. Back to Basics hosts Dr. Seitz and Jason join their good friends Chris Pfingstein and Spencer Oliver from EMS 20/20 to review a submitted cardiac case. Is it a STEMI? Is it a Block? Is it Hypotension? Is it all of that and more? What can we learn from it? Listen to find out!

Jan 19, 202301:43:22
46 - Pneumothoraces

46 - Pneumothoraces

In this episode, Jason and Chris walk you through the lungs and when they collapse. Not the balloon you might think, the spongy tissue of the lungs “collapses” when air enters the pleural space between the outer layers of the lung tissue. Whether these layers remind you of a pillow case, a hot pocket, a garbage bag, or anything in between, we’ll leave it up to you…some analogies don’t land so well.

Jan 11, 202328:27
The Future of Medical Assessment with Virtual Reality

The Future of Medical Assessment with Virtual Reality

VRpatients takes healthcare education to a new level with their virtual reality patient care platform. In this episode, Chris and Jason run through a few virtual reality scenarios and discuss how VR can provide more comprehensive training for healthcare professionals.

Jan 04, 202353:12
Body Betrayed - Neuromuscular Disorders

Body Betrayed - Neuromuscular Disorders

In this episode, the Seitz brothers cover Neuromuscular disorders. Well, really more peripheral nervous system disorders and degenerative neurological disorders that affect the peripheral nervous system and motor function, but who can fit all that into a title? Lots of Venn Diagram discussion too, as an added bonus.

Dec 23, 202241:52
"Mind-Trap" Psych Conditions

"Mind-Trap" Psych Conditions

This time, the Seitz brothers travel into the mind to define psych conditions. While you may not diagnose these conditions, recognizing their symptoms can help you have a better understanding of your patients and lead them to a healthier, happier life.

Dec 07, 202240:20
Diabetes

Diabetes

In this sweet episode, Jason and Chris review the ins and outs of how your body reacts to and produces glucose and insulin to keep you from being sour. Learn how Diabetes affects the body, and how to adequately treat low and high sugar emergencies in the field.

Oct 19, 202237:49
You Can't Handle the Truth - Medical Legal

You Can't Handle the Truth - Medical Legal

In this episode, Chris and Jason go over the legal principles and terminology you need to know to be able to safely administer care to your patients. Protect your patients and your own health, privacy, and dignity by making sure you're adhering to the laws designed to help providers do their job.

Oct 12, 202255:39
STD's - Love Bugs

STD's - Love Bugs

In this episode, Chris and Jason talk about sexually transmitted diseases.  Learn how they are transmitted, how to identify when they are life-threatening, and what first responders need to know about treating them.

Sep 20, 202242:27
Cardiac Medications

Cardiac Medications

Diving into the most common types of cardiac medications, Jason and Chris discuss the value of understanding the medications you may not use in the field, but your patients use at home. Familiarizing yourself with these meds and how they can affect your treatments is invaluable to delivering effective care.

Sep 13, 202242:07
Burn Basics - Too Hot to Handle

Burn Basics - Too Hot to Handle

In this episode, Chris and Jason discuss how you get burned, what a burn is, the severity of the trauma, how to treat it, and the pathophysiology of burns. Once an EMS provider understands the pathophysiology they will better understand why a particular treatment makes sense. 

Aug 19, 202256:06
Fluid Resuscitation

Fluid Resuscitation

In this episode, Chris and Jason talk about the nuances of fluid resuscitation. Is over-resuscitation a rational fear, or with the right tools and knowledge can providers deliver the right fluid at the right time to better patient outcomes?

Jun 21, 202241:01
Sports Injuries

Sports Injuries

In this episode special guest star (and Jason's good friend) Chris Perrin joins Jason to discuss Sports Injuries. Chris' experience as an athletic trainer lends a hand as they share knowledge on how to help athletes and accident-prone average joes.

Jun 08, 202241:48
Cold Emergencies

Cold Emergencies

Extremes of temperature can affect the body in many ways. Cold emergencies occur when body systems reach a temperature in which they can no longer tolerate, leading to damage to cells and bodily functions. In this episode of the Back to Basics podcast, Chris and Jason discuss the most common and dangerous cold emergencies and how to treat them. Want to recieve CAPCE credit for listening? Check out www.guardiancme.com

Apr 11, 202234:23
EMS License Test Taking Tips

EMS License Test Taking Tips

It's hard enough getting through EMT and Medic School, and then you are challenged with passing the NREMT exam. With a low passing rate, this exam can be a stressor for a lot of newly graduated EMT and Medic students. Luckily, Guardian Test Prep is an expert in taking and passing the NREMT! In this episode, Chris and Jason break down exactly how the exam works, what to expect and tips on how to approach each question so that you pass with no problem! Don't forget that Guardian Test prep offers a full NREMT test prep program with a 94% pass rate! Check it out at www.guardiantestprep.com. 

Feb 02, 202252:14
Pediatrics Part 3 - Shock

Pediatrics Part 3 - Shock

In this episode of the Back to Basics podcast, Chris and Jason complete their three part series on Pediatric Assessment and Resuscitation. Part 1 covered the systematic approach to assessing a Pediatric patient, and Part 2 reviewed the systematic investigation and treatment of respiratory emergencies. Now, they cover the second major cause of cardiac arrest in children which is Shock. How do we make sure that in every pediatric case we come in contact with, that we don't miss key signs of shock? And how can we systematically assess and treat every child to prevent further decompensation? It's all here on Episode 33! Need CAPCE credits for listening or help with your NREMT exam? Check out our other content at www.guariantestprep.com and www.guardiancme.com. 

Jan 28, 202230:44
Pediatrics Part 2 - Respiratory Emergencies

Pediatrics Part 2 - Respiratory Emergencies

The second part in our Pediatric series covers the assessment strategies needed to recognize respiratory emergencies in children. We cover the systematic evaluation and management of children suffering from respiratory emergencies to better prepare the first responder for handling pediatrics in the field. Want 100% Free CAPCE CME for listening? Check out https://guardiancme.com! 

Jan 18, 202243:07
Pediatrics Part 1 - Assessment

Pediatrics Part 1 - Assessment

EMS first responders will run on far less Pediatric patients compared to Adults during their career. Because of this, it can be difficult to remember that children are not just small adults, but require slightly different assessment and treatment protocols. In this episode, Chris and Jason discuss an easy to use systematic approach to the assessment of the Pediatric patient. Pulling from guidelines such as PEPP, PALS, and PEARS, this simple approach should give you confidence in your ability to identify children who need immediate intervention and those who can wait for further work-up at the hospital. Want to get FREE CAPCE CE for listening to the Back to Basics Podcast? Visit https://guardiancme.com! 

Jan 11, 202249:06
Ask us Anything Round 2

Ask us Anything Round 2

Its been a few months and we want to open up the podcast to you so that you can ask us all of your questions! Whether they are medical, personal, spiritual, or inappropriate, nothing is off limits and Jason will answer it. 

Dec 08, 202134:59
Is POCUS Hocus?

Is POCUS Hocus?

Point of Care Ultrasound (POCUS) is an exciting new technology being evaluated in the EMS space for use by Paramedics and EMS professionals on the road. However, does the research support the use of POCUS in the field? What types of diagnostic exams with the ultrasound have proven to be effective in making changes to patient care? And is there any evidence that patient outcomes are better when POCUS is adopted? In this episode of Back to Basics, Chris and Jason explore these questions and more as they attempt to figure out whether POCUS is hocus. 

Nov 09, 202150:09
Taking a look at Acute Vision Loss

Taking a look at Acute Vision Loss

A patient who experiences sudden vision loss may be suffering from a number of pathologies. How can the first responder in the field assess and diagnose potentially dangerous conditions that cause these types of symptoms? In this episode of Back to Basics, Chris and Jason discuss some of the most acute and potentially life threatening reasons for acute vision loss as well as how to recognize and potentially diagnose in the field. Join them as they take a look at acute vision loss! If you want to see more content make sure to visit www.guardiantestprep.com! 

Oct 13, 202138:18
EMS Medical Direction - How are we doing?

EMS Medical Direction - How are we doing?

EMS Medical Direction is a critical component of every EMS system. The NAEMT, ACEP, and NAAEMSP all help define what high quality EMS Medical Direction should look like. But how are we doing in implementing their guidelines? In this Episode of Back to Basics we discuss the role of the EMS Medical Director, what high quality medical direction should look like, and where we can continue to improve the quality and involvement of this important role in EMS. 

Oct 05, 202139:12
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease - COPD

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease - COPD

Emphysema and Chronic Bronchitis together make up COPD. These are obstructive lung diseases like asthma, but what differentiates Emphysema from Chronic Bronchitis? Do your patients always have both? Find out in this episode of Back to Basics! We also have a big announcement! Soon we will be launching Guardian CME!! Guardian CME is a 100% FREE CAPCE platform so that you can get all your CAPCE credits by engaging our content as well as content from other great educators. And you heard that right....it's FREE! Head over to www.guardiancme.com and drop your email so we can let you know when we launch. 

Sep 28, 202130:53
Pirate Emergencies - Protecting your Booty

Pirate Emergencies - Protecting your Booty

Happy International Talk Like a Pirate day! In this episode, Chris and Jason honor the holiday by covering a topic not often addressed in primary emergency education...Pirate Emergencies. Would you be able to take care of a pirate in the field? Everything from scurvy to gangrene, listen in to make sure you are prepared in case you ever come across these conditions on your future voyages! And don't miss out on our upcoming launch of Guardian CME - a 100% FREE CAPCE platform where you can listen to your favorite podcasts and content from other great educators all for free. Sign up at www.guardiancme.com

Sep 19, 202134:25
A deeper look at Asthma

A deeper look at Asthma

You probably see asthma everyday on the job. A common disorder, asthma is something that healthcare professionals typically feel comfortable treating and feel that they have a good understanding of. In this episode, however, Chris and Jason argue that maybe we don't know as much about asthma as we should BECAUSE we see it all of the time. Here, they take a deep dive into the pathophysiology of the condition and explain why its so important to go back to basics even on topics we feel familiar with! Want to earn CME for listening to the podcast? Go to www.guardiancme.com and sign up to hear about our upcoming 100% free CAPCE platform launching in the next few months! 

Sep 14, 202134:05
High Altitude Illness: High and Not-So Mighty

High Altitude Illness: High and Not-So Mighty

We touched base on what can happen at depth under the water in our Dive Emergencies episode, but what happens if we head in the opposite direction? High altitude illness is divided into three presentations: Acute Mountain Sickness (the most common), high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) and High altitude cerebral edema (HACE). All are caused by a lower oxygen environment. How do we differentiate them and what do we do about it? All this and much more in this episode! Come get high with us! www.guardiantestprep.com

Sep 01, 202131:49
Rhabdomyolysis

Rhabdomyolysis

Rhabdomyolysis, the destruction of muscle tissue, leading to risk of systemic complications, can be caused from a number of traumatic and non-traumatic mechanisms. Rhabdomyolysis is a confusing pathology to understand, and involves a fairly deep knowledge level of how the muscle cell works. In this episode of Back to Basics, the Seitz brothers simplify the understanding of how muscle cells work and how to both suspect and treat rhabdomyolysis in the acute emergency setting! 

Aug 25, 202130:49
Organophosphate Poisoning

Organophosphate Poisoning

Would you know how to recognize the signs and symptoms of organophosphate poisoning? Do you know the treatments and how they work? Is it common? Chris and Jason answer these questions and more on Episode 21 of the Back to Basics podcast! Whether you're a student, educator or advanced provider, we've got something just for you. Enjoying the podcast? Check out our other content at www.guardiantestprep.com

Aug 17, 202133:42
Compartment Syndrome

Compartment Syndrome

Compartment syndrome is a limb, and potentially life-threatening condition. But would you be able to recognize it in the field? And how do you treat the condition emergently? In Episode 20 of Back to Basics, Chris and Jason answer these questions and more! Studying for the NREMT? Check out our full program at www.guardiantestprep.com

Aug 03, 202133:57
Understanding Priapism.....It's not that hard

Understanding Priapism.....It's not that hard

We've all heard that if you have an erection lasting more than 4 hours you need to seek medical attention. But how come? A painful erection is called Priapism, and in this episode of Back to Basics, Chris and Jason discuss the pathophysiology behind the condition as well as what first responders and emergency personnel can do to diagnose and treat this emergent situation.

Jul 27, 202141:09
Delivery - Try not to drop it

Delivery - Try not to drop it

The idea of delivering a baby can be daunting. Luckily, most of the time all you have to do is not drop it! But when things do go wrong you also need to know how to intervene. In this episode, Chris and Jason review the normal aspects of delivery as well as the simple steps you can take when things don't go exactly as planned. Studying for the NREMT and need more? Check out our course at www.seitzandsirens.com! 

Jul 06, 202147:16
Ask us Anything!

Ask us Anything!

In episode 17 of the Back to Basics podcast, Chris and Jason answer all of your pressing questions. By listener request, they answer your medical questions, personal questions and questions you didn't even ask! Have questions for Chris and Jason? Shoot your questions to training@seitzandsirens.com and stay tuned for our next Ask us Anything next quarter! 

Jun 24, 202144:50
Seizures

Seizures

The topic of seizures in emergency care is sometimes oversimplified and many times overcomplicated. In this episode of Back to Basics, Chris and Jason break down the nuances of identifying types of seizures and simplify the emergency approach to treating patients suffering from seizure disorders. 

Jun 15, 202144:47
Why did it have to be snakes?! - Envenomations

Why did it have to be snakes?! - Envenomations

Why snakes?! In this episode of Back to Basics, Jason tells us all about envenomations and Chris just gets scared and barely contributes because of a deep seated fear of snakes. Join them as they discuss what to do when your patient is bitten, and why bringing the creature with you to the ER is probably not a great idea. (Especially if Chris is on shift)

Jun 02, 202147:55
Thyroid Emergencies

Thyroid Emergencies

Understanding the function of the thyroid gland and its hormones is key to being able to treat patients suffering from both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. In this episode of the Back to Basics podcast, we discuss the signs and symptoms of the most common thyroid disorders as well as how to identify emergency thyroid conditions that require immediate intervention. 

May 26, 202133:23
Pharmacology Basics

Pharmacology Basics

Pharmacology can be an overwhelming topic. With a strong foundation of the basics of pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics however, anyone can simplify this topic and begin to more deeply understand the mechanisms and effects of different medications. In this episode of Back to Basics, Chris and Jason simplify the basics of pharmacology to give the listener a strong base to build from as they begin to learn and study new and different medications as a part of their medical practice. www.seitzandsirens.com 

May 12, 202143:25
Lightsaber Injuries

Lightsaber Injuries

May the 4th be with you! In this episode of the back to basics podcast, Chris and Jason discuss the rare but serious Lighsaber injury. Not typically covered in EMS and Medical education, lightsaber injuries can be life threatening and require a deeper understanding of pathophysiology in order to properly manage. Whether you are someone adept at using the force or not, this episode will definitely help you manage these critical incidents with more confidence. Don't forget to check out our NREMT prep program at www.seitzandsirens.com and listen at the end of the episode for some fun bloopers! 

May 04, 202132:10