Medical Emergencies: CPR, Toxicology, and Wilderness from Coursera

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Syllabus

Cardiac Arrest and Shock

In this module you will be learning about states of shock and the principles of resuscitation. Unlike our common use of the word shock referring to a mental state of feeling overwhelmed or alarmed, shock is a state of crisis within the body, involving one or more of the organ systems. If left uncorrected, shock can lead to death. The other topic, resuscitation, will cover the principles of treating and reversing shock, and most importantly, the treatment of cardiac arrest. We will discuss the latest scientific research and best practices of cardiac arrest resuscitation.

Toxicology and Substance Abuse

In this module we are going to learn about poisonings, or toxicologic ingestions. There is a whole field of medicine dedicated to the study of how the thing we ingestion, usually accidentally or in an attempt of self-harm, impact our bodies. This field is called toxicology. A poison is any substance that impairs health or causes death. A toxin is a drug or substance that is poisonous to a human, and will cause an adverse event, maybe even death. An antidote is a substance that will neutralize the effect of the poison or toxin. With an understanding of the basic terminology, we can further explore the most common poisons you will encounter in the field, how they affect the body, and how we treat these patients.

Not All Who Wander Are Tox

In this module you will learn how environmental emergencies are caused when the body’s physiological functions are disrupted by the patient’s natural surroundings. Many of the body’s functions only function properly at a normal temperature, so a change in the body’s temperature can cause them to fail. Some examples of environmental emergencies include cold or hot temperature changes, illness and injuries caused by other animals, high altitude illnesses and injuries or illness related to water such as drowning.

Blood and Guts

In this module we will capture topics an EMT might come across that don’t fit into the sections so far. The important “other” things that can cause patients problems. The role of an EMT is as an advocate for your patient to provide the best care possible. Part of that is taking the time to understand your patient’s story as well as to think critically about the complaint especially if difficult to diagnose. Also, we will focus of problems in the abdomen involving the gastrointestinal track, renal system and reproductive system.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Examines the manifestations, assessment, and stabilization of shock, a multisystem condition requiring immediate intervention

Explores the principles, techniques, and guidelines of performing CPR and using AEDs in cardiac arrest emergencies

Provides a comprehensive understanding of toxicology and substance abuse, including mechanisms of poisoning, assessment, and patient management

Examines environmental emergencies such as hypothermia, hyperthermia, lightning strike, and drowning, focusing on assessment, initial treatment, and stabilization

Develops an understanding of gastrointestinal, renal, and reproductive system disorders, including their assessment and management

Taught by a team of experienced medical professionals, including physicians and nurses, who bring real-world expertise to the course

Reviews summary

Medical emergencies: a must-have for emts and beyond

Learners say this course is engaging and informative across a wide array of medical emergencies, including CPR, toxicology, and wilderness medicine. Students report that the instructors were knowledgeable and effective. If you want to take your medical skills to the next level, learners say this course is a great stepping stone to prepare you. It is especially highly valued by those new to the field. Key features include lectures, readings, assignments, and quizzes to help test your learning.

Great for those new to emergency care or wanting to refresh their skills.

"> good course for beginners"

Instructors are knowledgeable and effective at teaching the material.

"> Good instruction from good instructors."

Covers a wide range of topics, including CPR, toxicology, and wilderness medicine.

"> A lot of necessary knowledge"

"> Interesting course with a wider knowledge of medical emergencies!"

Helps you develop practical skills that can be used in real-life emergencies.

"> less practical could be more effective if.."

"> I am grateful and thankful for the support and help you provide , in such times and this are the real heroes doing heroic acts."

Some learners struggled to complete the course due to lack of support.

"> Excellent Content, I learned so much. *****BE WARNED. After spending money for the full course, and completing all Modules, with 93+ average, and wanting to attend bootcamp, they only answered 2 out of around 12 emails, I lost confidence in them and found a different center to get practical training and exams. It seems like they are only happy to accept my monthly subscription fees but not very interested in me actually attending the bootcamp. (despite the $1,000 fee!) International Students beware!"

Some learners found the assessments to be challenging.

"> Please provide explanations for the answers after assessments are completed. Teachers were good."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Medical Emergencies: CPR, Toxicology, and Wilderness with these activities:

Practice performing CPR on a mannequin

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Enhances your readiness to perform this life saving technique

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Locate a CPR certified instructor or training center
Enroll in a CPR certification or re-certification training
Attend the training sessions
Practice hands-on CPR techniques on a mannequin

Create a cheat sheet of key concepts for emergencies

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Develop a concise cheat sheet summarizing essential concepts for managing medical emergencies, facilitating quick reference and enhanced retention.

Browse courses on Medical emergencies

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Identify the most important concepts and protocols covered in the course.
Create a visually appealing and organized cheat sheet, using bullet points, tables, or diagrams.

Review physiology of vital organ systems

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Reviewing physiology will reinforce understanding of shock and cardiac arrest mechanisms.

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Revisit textbooks and notes from previous coursework
Attend preparatory workshops or online webinars
Practice answering recall questions on organ systems

12 other activities

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Join a study group for the course

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Connect with fellow students to discuss course material, clarify concepts, and support each other's learning.

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Identify a group of peers who are also enrolled in the course.
Establish a regular meeting schedule and location.
Collaborate on assignments, quiz each other on concepts, and share resources.

Review Basic Life Support Procedures

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Understanding what should be done during cardiac arrest is important to being able to care for patients in shock.

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Read a quick overview of BLS certification
Watch a video or videos that review ACLS guidelines
Practice chest compressions and breathing techniques on a manikin

Review CPR certification guidelines

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Complete a CPR certification course to strengthen your skills in first aid and CPR, and brush up on the latest resuscitation guidelines.

Browse courses on CPR

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Review the latest guidelines from the American Heart Association or other reputable sources on CPR and AED usage.
Attend a hands-on CPR certification course to reinforce your knowledge and practice your skills.
Practice your CPR and AED skills regularly with a partner or mannequin to enhance your proficiency.

Practice cardiac arrest simulations

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Simulations provide opportunities to practice and refine resuscitation skills in a controlled environment.

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Locate certified training centers or online platforms offering simulations
Enroll in a simulation workshop or course
Participate actively in simulations, following instructions and receiving feedback

Read: Emergency Care and Transportation of the Sick and Injured

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This book provides comprehensive knowledge of emergency care and transportation, enhancing your understanding of topics covered in the course.

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Read the book thoroughly, taking notes on key concepts and techniques.
Refer to the book regularly throughout the course to reinforce your learning and clarify any doubts.

Explore online tutorials on specific medical topics

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Enhance your understanding of specific medical topics by seeking out high-quality online tutorials and instructional videos, supplementing your knowledge from the course.

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Identify specific areas or concepts where you need additional clarification.
Search for reputable online tutorials or videos that address these topics.
Follow the tutorials, taking notes and practicing the concepts being taught.

Engage in group discussions on patient scenarios

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Group discussions foster critical thinking and exchange of perspectives.

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Form study groups with classmates or join online forums
Select patient scenarios that present diverse and challenging situations
Discuss the scenarios, share insights, and develop collaborative solutions

Develop a case study presentation on a complex medical emergency

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Apply your knowledge and skills by creating a detailed presentation that analyzes a complex medical emergency, demonstrating your understanding of assessment, treatment, and decision-making.

Browse courses on Medical emergencies

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Select a complex medical emergency scenario.
Research the condition, assessment protocols, and treatment options.
Develop a presentation that includes a thorough analysis of the case, including patient assessment, differential diagnosis, treatment plan, and evaluation of outcomes.
Practice your presentation and deliver it to classmates or instructors for feedback.

Conduct mock patient assessments

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Engage in simulated patient assessments to improve your ability to gather accurate medical information and make informed decisions.

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Identify a partner or group of peers to practice with.
Create mock scenarios based on common medical emergencies.
Take turns assessing each other, practicing history-taking, physical examination, and vital signs monitoring.
Provide constructive feedback to enhance everyone's skills.

Complete mock assessments

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Mock assessments help identify areas for improvement and reinforce knowledge.

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Access online practice tests or purchase study guides with mock assessments
Time yourself and simulate real-life assessment conditions
Review results thoroughly, focusing on areas requiring improvement

Volunteer with a local ambulance or emergency medical services crew

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Gain practical experience in emergency situations by volunteering with an ambulance or EMS crew, reinforcing your knowledge and developing valuable hands-on skills.

Browse courses on Emergency Medical Services

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Contact local ambulance or EMS organizations to inquire about volunteer opportunities.
Complete any required training or background checks.
Participate in ride-alongs with experienced paramedics or EMTs.
Assist with patient care, including assessment, monitoring, and transportation.

Develop a patient management plan for a complex case

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Creating a management plan tests the ability to apply knowledge comprehensively.

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Select a complex case that incorporates multiple topics covered in the course
Research and gather information on the patient's condition, medical history, and relevant factors
Develop a comprehensive management plan that addresses all aspects of patient care
Present the plan to peers or instructors for feedback and improvement

Career center

Learners who complete Medical Emergencies: CPR, Toxicology, and Wilderness will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)

Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) are emergency responders who provide basic medical care and transportation to patients. They often work alongside Paramedics, and they play an important role in the emergency medical services system. This course can help you build a strong foundation in the knowledge and skills you need to become a successful EMT, including how to assess and stabilize patients for transport, how to identify and treat cardiac arrest, and how to manage environmental emergencies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)

Paramedic

A Paramedic is a highly trained medical professional who provides emergency medical care and transportation to patients. They are often the first responders to medical emergencies, and they play a vital role in saving lives. This course can help you build a strong foundation in the knowledge and skills you need to become a successful Paramedic, including how to assess and stabilize patients for transport, how to identify and treat cardiac arrest, and how to manage environmental emergencies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Paramedic

Critical Care Paramedic

Critical Care Paramedics are highly trained medical professionals who provide advanced medical care to critically ill and injured patients. They often work in intensive care units and emergency departments, and they play a vital role in saving lives. This course can help you build a strong foundation in the knowledge and skills you need to become a successful Critical Care Paramedic, including how to assess and stabilize patients for transport, how to identify and treat cardiac arrest, and how to manage environmental emergencies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Critical Care Paramedic

Flight Paramedic

Flight Paramedics are highly trained medical professionals who provide emergency medical care and transportation to patients via helicopter or airplane. They often work in remote or rural areas, and they play a vital role in saving lives. This course can help you build a strong foundation in the knowledge and skills you need to become a successful Flight Paramedic, including how to assess and stabilize patients for transport, how to identify and treat cardiac arrest, and how to manage environmental emergencies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Flight Paramedic

Neonatal Paramedic

Neonatal Paramedics are highly trained medical professionals who provide emergency medical care and transportation to newborn babies and infants. They often work in neonatal intensive care units and emergency departments, and they play a vital role in saving lives. This course can help you build a strong foundation in the knowledge and skills you need to become a successful Neonatal Paramedic, including how to assess and stabilize patients for transport, how to identify and treat cardiac arrest, and how to manage environmental emergencies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Neonatal Paramedic

Wilderness EMT

Wilderness EMTs are emergency responders who provide medical care to patients in remote or wilderness areas. They often work with hikers, campers, and other outdoor enthusiasts, and they play a vital role in saving lives. This course can help you build a strong foundation in the knowledge and skills you need to become a successful Wilderness EMT, including how to assess and stabilize patients for transport, how to identify and treat cardiac arrest, and how to manage environmental emergencies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Wilderness EMT

Registered Nurse (RN)

Registered Nurses (RNs) are licensed healthcare professionals who provide a wide range of medical care to patients. They often work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings, and they play a vital role in the healthcare system. This course can help you build a strong foundation in the knowledge and skills you need to become a successful RN, including how to assess and stabilize patients for transport, how to identify and treat cardiac arrest, and how to manage environmental emergencies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Registered Nurse (RN)

Physician Assistant (PA)

Physician Assistants (PAs) are licensed healthcare professionals who practice medicine under the supervision of a physician. They often work in primary care settings, and they can provide a wide range of medical care to patients. This course can help you build a strong foundation in the knowledge and skills you need to become a successful PA, including how to assess and stabilize patients for transport, how to identify and treat cardiac arrest, and how to manage environmental emergencies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Physician Assistant (PA)

Firefighter

Firefighters are emergency responders who protect people and property from fires and other emergencies. They often work in fire stations, and they play a vital role in the community. This course can help you build a strong foundation in the knowledge and skills you need to become a successful Firefighter, including how to assess and stabilize patients for transport, how to identify and treat cardiac arrest, and how to manage environmental emergencies.

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Police Officer

Police Officers are law enforcement officers who protect the public from crime. They often work in police stations, and they play a vital role in the community. This course can help you build a strong foundation in the knowledge and skills you need to become a successful Police Officer, including how to assess and stabilize patients for transport, how to identify and treat cardiac arrest, and how to manage environmental emergencies.

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Hazardous Materials Specialist

Hazardous Materials Specialists are professionals who respond to and clean up hazardous materials spills and releases. They often work for government agencies or private companies, and they play a vital role in protecting the public from harm. This course can help you build a strong foundation in the knowledge and skills you need to become a successful Hazardous Materials Specialist, including how to assess and stabilize patients for transport, how to identify and treat cardiac arrest, and how to manage environmental emergencies.

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Environmental Health Specialist

Environmental Health Specialists are professionals who work to protect the public from environmental hazards. They often work for government agencies or private companies, and they play a vital role in protecting the public from harm. This course can help you build a strong foundation in the knowledge and skills you need to become a successful Environmental Health Specialist, including how to assess and stabilize patients for transport, how to identify and treat cardiac arrest, and how to manage environmental emergencies.

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Safety Manager

Safety Managers are professionals who develop and implement safety programs for businesses and organizations. They often work for government agencies or private companies, and they play a vital role in protecting the public from harm. This course can help you build a strong foundation in the knowledge and skills you need to become a successful Safety Manager, including how to assess and stabilize patients for transport, how to identify and treat cardiac arrest, and how to manage environmental emergencies.

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Toxicologist

Toxicologists are scientists who study the effects of toxic substances on living organisms. They often work for government agencies or private companies, and they play a vital role in protecting the public from harm. This course can help you build a strong foundation in the knowledge and skills you need to become a successful Toxicologist, including how to assess and stabilize patients for transport, how to identify and treat cardiac arrest, and how to manage environmental emergencies.

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Epidemiologist

Epidemiologists are scientists who study the causes and distribution of diseases in populations. They often work for government agencies or private companies, and they play a vital role in protecting the public from harm. This course may be useful in helping you build a foundation in the knowledge and skills you need to become a successful Epidemiologist, including how to assess and stabilize patients for transport, how to identify and treat cardiac arrest, and how to manage environmental emergencies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Epidemiologist