EMS performing a physical examination of a patient

Mastering the EMS Detailed Physical Exam

Performing a thorough and systematic physical exam is one of the most essential skills in prehospital emergency medicine. The detailed physical exam allows EMS providers to discover injuries or illnesses that may not be immediately obvious, prioritize patient care, and prevent overlooked life-threatening conditions.

This course provides EMS professionals with an in-depth review of the principles, techniques, and practical application of the detailed head-to-toe physical exam in both trauma and medical patients. Emphasis is placed on methodical assessment, identification of injuries using DCAP-BTLS, rapid trauma scans, and effective documentation.

Objectives

Upon completion of this course, the participant will be able to:

  1. Describe the purpose and timing of the detailed physical exam.
  2. Identify when a full assessment is indicated.
  3. Explain DCAP-BTLS and its clinical relevance.
  4. Recognize critical findings requiring immediate intervention.
  5. Identify proper documentation of assessment findings.

Curriculum

Chapter 1: Principles of the Detailed Physical Exam

Chapter 2: Understanding DCAP-BTLS

Chapter 3: The Rapid Trauma Scan and Head-to-Toe Assessment

Chapter 4: Documentation, Communication, and Reassessment
 

Price: $12.00

Contact Hour: 1

EMS performing a physical examination of a patient

Course Author

Author photo of Brad Moore.

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.

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Course Accreditation

Provider approved by the Texas Department of State Health Services, course provides 1.00 contact hour(s). CE Program Approval Number #: 601011.

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