Advanced Cardiac Care for the EMT: Managing Cardiac Emergencies in the Field
Cardiac emergencies are among the most time-sensitive and high-stakes events encountered in prehospital medicine. Every year, cardiovascular disease claims more lives than any other single cause in the United States. Nearly half of these deaths occur before a patient ever reaches the hospital, emphasizing the essential role of Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) and Paramedics in early recognition, rapid intervention, and effective resuscitation.
This course provides an evidence-based, comprehensive review of cardiac emergencies for all prehospital care providers. It explores cardiovascular anatomy and physiology, pathophysiology of major cardiac conditions, prehospital pharmacology, and system-based response principles—empowering the EMT at every level to act swiftly, confidently, and effectively during cardiac crises.
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Objectives
Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
- Define the role of the EMT in cardiac emergencies.
- List the modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
- Differentiate between unstable and stable angina.
- State the most common cause of myocardial infarction.
- State the primary indication for adenosine administration in the prehospital setting.
- List the signs/characteristics of cardiac tamponade.
Curriculum
Chapter 1: Understanding Cardiac Emergencies
- Overview of cardiovascular disease prevalence and pathophysiology
- Common cardiac risk factors and prevention
- The role of EMTs in early intervention
- Initial patient assessment and scene considerations
Chapter 2: Recognition and Management of Cardiac Conditions
- Angina pectoris, myocardial infarction, and heart failure
- Signs, symptoms, and differential diagnosis
- Initial management steps (Oxygen, Aspirin, Nitroglycerin, etc.)
- Case study: atypical chest pain presentation
Chapter 3: Cardiac Pharmacology for the EMT and Paramedic
- Overview of prehospital cardiac medications
- ALS vs. BLS scope considerations
- Key medication profiles: Epinephrine, Amiodarone, Adenosine, Nitroglycerin, Atropine, Dopamine, Norepinephrine, Aspirin, Morphine
- Safe administration and contraindications
Chapter 4: Critical Cardiac Emergencies and Shock States
- Cardiogenic shock, cardiac tamponade, hypertensive emergencies
- Pathophysiology and assessment findings
- Prehospital management priorities
- Case example and discussion
Chapter 5: Cardiac Arrest and Resuscitation
- The cardiac chain of survival
- Basic and advanced life support review
- Pit crew CPR model and team leadership
- Termination of resuscitation criteria
Chapter 6: Automated External Defibrillation and Post-Arrest Care
- AED operation and integration into care
- Defibrillation protocols and safety
- ROSC management and post-arrest transport care
- References
Price: $12.00
Contact Hour: 1
Course Author
Brad Moore
Brad Moore is a dedicated public safety professional with over 18 years of service in emergency response. He has been a firefighter since 2021 and became a licensed paramedic in 2023, providing critical care in high-pressure situations. Before transitioning to Fire and EMS, Brad served for 12 years as a police officer, where he developed strong skills in leadership, crisis management, public safety, and community service. He is also a licensed EMS Instructor through the Texas Department of State Health Services, further extending his expertise in training and education for emergency responders. His diverse background reflects a lifelong commitment to protecting and serving others.
In addition to his frontline experience, Brad is the author and coordinator of all of our EMS continuing education courses, ensuring the highest standards of training and professional development for his fellow first responders. His combined experience in practice and education underscores his dedication to advancing excellence in emergency services.