EMS 20/20 is podcast hosted by two experienced Paramedics. Spencer Oliver and Christopher Pfingsten discuss real calls run by real responders and pull out the lessons you won't find in a text book. This podcast is aimed at Paramedic students, seasoned Paramedics looking to refresh, or any one interested in a deeper dive into pre-hospital health care.
Greased Lightning
Which is the best food product to cover a burn patient in? Spoiler: none. Join the guys as we learn from burn unit RN Erin Horrax that math sucks, patient advocacy is great, and pain meds are pretty darn cool too.
10/23/2024 • 1 hour, 34 minutes, 15 seconds
Special Edition: Spencer Kills
First rule about EMS 20/20... talk about it, constantly. Second rule... judge Spencer on our Instagram! Does he nail this code 99 call? Does he leave a lot to be desired? Check out the poll on IG @ems2020show!
10/16/2024 • 53 minutes, 47 seconds
We All Scream For Levophed!
Spence, Chris, and the host of Nine One One Nonsense SAMANTHA BRAWLEY take on a critical care transport that was cold from the get go. The fish truly rots from the head as a doctor sends a patient on the wrong medication and leaves a crew with no alternatives...
10/9/2024 • 2 hours, 3 minutes, 45 seconds
Special Edition: Ruptured Confidence
In this weeks MASTER YOUR MEDICS SPECIAL EDITION, Spencer throws Chris a call that requires both clinical prowess and bedside expertise as Spencer hopes to even the odds. VOTE ON OUR INSTA!
10/2/2024 • 55 minutes, 39 seconds
How I (didn't?) Kill Your Mother
Let's go to the mall... today! ASHLYNN O'DELL joins the guys once again to go through everyone's favorite call: an uncomplicated refusal with absolutely nothing worry about whatsoever...
9/25/2024 • 1 hour, 55 minutes, 55 seconds
Special Edition: Lung Blooder
CHECK OUT OUR INSTA AND VOTE! Spencer is dealt a HARD airway call by a cruel Chris! Listen and see how he does and vote to let us know how you feel!!
9/18/2024 • 58 minutes, 22 seconds
Chest Burster
Spencer brings a call that is totally just anxiety. Honestly, no need to listen to the episode this week, nothing is wrong with the patient. Not at all. Move along. Sign this Refusal to Listen. Maybe have a friend listen if you really think you need it.
9/11/2024 • 1 hour, 32 minutes, 34 seconds
Special Edition: Will Chris Choke?
As payback, Spencer gives Chris a pediatric airway call. Will Chris choke? Head to @ems2020show on Instagram and vote for Chris' score!
9/4/2024 • 42 minutes, 3 seconds
Running Up That SpO2 (Hopelessly)
The SpO2 climbs while the patient declines? What?! A fed up patient and Paramedic who, if they only could, would swap places with just about anyone on this week's call!
8/28/2024 • 1 hour, 41 minutes, 17 seconds
Special Edition: Spencer Gets Breathing Room
In today's Master Your Medics Special, Chris throws Spencer a pediatric breathing difficulty to see if he pulls ahead or falls behind in the currently 1-1 match between the the hosts!
8/21/2024 • 28 minutes, 38 seconds
Speeding Towards Sedation
Is less more? Is more less? When a patient's mental baseline is uncertain, how much EMS is too much EMS? Listen and find out to see if the guys can right the speeding bus before thing blow up!
8/14/2024 • 1 hour, 39 minutes, 26 seconds
Special Edition: Chris is on Shaky Ground
Master Your Medics has sponsored today's episode where Spencer tests Chris with an altered LOC call. Does Chris get the shakes or does he tie up the score?
8/7/2024 • 29 minutes, 23 seconds
Wonka's Weedy Wallop!
Wow. Spencer tries to outright murder Chris with a litany of system issues and leaving equipment behind as a Paramedic gets assaulted and an EMT gets abandoned. Listen now and see if Chris survives this week's episode!
7/31/2024 • 1 hour, 38 minutes, 12 seconds
Special Edition: Pass or Flail?
For the first time ever, Chris and Spencer will be squaring off to see who can pass the test the best as the guys test one another using the 100 Patient Scenarios book by Master Your Medics! In this episode, Chris serves up a trauma call to see if Spencer can manage. Check out the masteryourmedics.com bookstore and get a copy of the 100 Patient Scenarios Book today!
7/24/2024 • 38 minutes, 15 seconds
UnTrue Lies
Chris becomes numb to crews leaving kits out in the rig... but no worries! His senses are revitalized as apathy encroaches upon an unsuspecting intern and things go from bad to worse to bullshit! Let's see what the guys think in this week's episode!
7/17/2024 • 1 hour, 50 minutes, 53 seconds
We Did Not Plan For This
What happens when you have talented medics at a standby event... with no operation plan? Frustration and a little hilarity is what happens, and Spencer and Chris are here again to break it all down. PLUS! Are we going back to weekly content??? Maybe...
7/3/2024 • 1 hour, 51 minutes, 15 seconds
Under the Bridge
Can you fall from a bridge onto a steel barge and survive? Maybe. Chris and Spence go on an adventure where vehicles are commandeered and daring rescues are made in one of the most atypical calls we've had in quite some time!
6/19/2024 • 1 hour, 41 minutes, 55 seconds
Hurt
EMS can be dangerous. Though incidents that truly threaten the lives of responding crews are not common, his leadership responds and supports those on the front lines matters.
5/29/2024 • 1 hour, 42 minutes, 51 seconds
All The Small Pills
Chris and Spencer need a little help from an expert. Enter Dr. Ryan Feldman, Clinical Toxicologist and host of The Poison Lab Podcast! A patient takes everything they can get their hands on, but of all the pills... which one is the worst? Find out on this weeks episode!
5/22/2024 • 1 hour, 52 minutes, 3 seconds
LEGO my V-Tach!
"Stop shocking me!!" Is the quote of the day when listening to this episode! Spencer and Chris delve into a fall patient then ends up being just a little bit more than a band-aid. Can the crew follow the instructions and build a great call out of loose parts?
5/8/2024 • 1 hour, 38 minutes, 11 seconds
T is for Terrible Manners
N is for neuro symptoms, S is for stroke, and U is for uncaring agency that needs a reality check. What do you do when a responding agency is responding angrily? Listen and find out!
4/24/2024 • 1 hour, 43 minutes, 29 seconds
Please Don't Take Me There
So what do you do when the nearest "appropriate" hospital is actually the lair of the Shredder? Do you pass it up or go by the book? Listen to this week's episode and see if the Turtles go rogue or following the teachings of Master Splinter.
4/10/2024 • 2 hours, 18 minutes, 20 seconds
It's Just My Arm... Promise.
When is it ever really as easy at it seems? Take a helluva dive with the guys as they figure out what was missed as a vaping patient complains about their arm.
3/27/2024 • 1 hour, 32 minutes, 13 seconds
Quick! To The Bat Scanner!
Well now here's a fun one: what happens when a fall patient who just needs a hand up suddenly becomes an altered patient? Find out in this week's totally copyright infringement free episode!
3/13/2024 • 1 hour, 44 minutes, 5 seconds
Put The Bunny Back
Does this weeks crew get conned into using air for their cardiac patient? Spencer and Chris talk nitro, 90's movies, and Nicholas Cage in this weeks clip filled episode!
2/28/2024 • 1 hour, 37 minutes, 27 seconds
Systemic Failure
Each and everyone of Chris' triggers are pulled in this harrowing tale of herding cats. A severely injured/ejected patient is treated by a severely injured system... and the result is... not great.
2/14/2024 • 2 hours, 12 minutes, 12 seconds
It's All About the Delivery
Everyone's favorite call type is front and center as an expecting mother does what expecting mothers do. Listen as Chris makes terrible guesses at this episodes theme... but also be sure to listen to our SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT!
1/31/2024 • 1 hour, 36 minutes, 34 seconds
Vaguely Non-Emergent?
Does a crew let the dispatch information lead them astray? Are they able to see through the smoke screen of a convoluted history? Listen and find out if being sick for two days means you won't see a third!
1/17/2024 • 1 hour, 49 minutes, 11 seconds
Pulling a Code Out of a H.A.T.
Sometimes illusions of trauma can get the better of us. Spencer and Chris see if the crew in today's episode is fooled by sleight of... car, or if they manage to see past the tricks and get to the bottom of the magic hat.
1/3/2024 • 1 hour, 52 minutes, 5 seconds
That's Kenough Ketamine!
It's just a code one leg pain... how hard could it be? Spencer and Chris find out in today's episode as the guys examine easy errors with difficult consequences!
12/21/2023 • 1 hour, 36 minutes, 27 seconds
Salmon Stabs Spaghetti
Chris and Spence review a call that goes clinically... fine. But what happens when the patient suddenly doesn't like the direction the call is going? And what happens when a doctor is.... WRONG?!
12/6/2023 • 1 hour, 43 minutes, 6 seconds
Choosy Medics Choose STEMI
The guys review a nutty situation where a responder is sandwiched between a DNR and a very serious diagnosis... and also their partner...
11/22/2023 • 1 hour, 48 minutes, 58 seconds
A *Very* Sticky Case
Spencer and Chris bring in the big guns from the Standard of Care podcast, Samantha Johnson and Nick Adams! This episode is probably one of the most disturbing cases of neglect we've reviewed in a while, so you've been warned!
11/8/2023 • 1 hour, 40 minutes, 25 seconds
Railroading Rod
Ashlyn O'Dell joins Chris and Spence as the trio try and be very useful engines on a trauma call! With an object stuck... somewhere and a rather un-useful little engine on scene, the team has their work cut out for them.
10/25/2023 • 2 hours, 55 minutes, 53 seconds
You're Tearing Up My Heart
It might sounds crazy, but it ain't no lie... Spencer and Chris try to navigate what to do when a big mistake is made on a severe trauma patient... and it's not a mistake that is hard to make, either.
10/11/2023 • 2 hours, 16 minutes, 30 seconds
Avoiding SeDEADtion
The guys try to figure out exactly where the line between sedation and death is, and as a bonus, Spencer teaches you how to smoke meth.
9/27/2023 • 1 hour, 31 minutes, 10 seconds
12.875 Kilometer
Crossing into Canadian terrain, Spencer and Chris delve into a call where a patient does their best attempt at refusing treatment for their... gunshot wound?
9/13/2023 • 1 hour, 42 minutes, 36 seconds
MI Bleed?
Chris and Spencer see if they can solve why a man with the most rancid of toots can't stay upright. And also... Chris totally screws up!
Also be sure to check out this week's sponsor, In Case at getincase.com/EMS2020!
8/30/2023 • 1 hour, 43 minutes, 30 seconds
Who has the Baby!?
Spencer throws Chris for a loop by making him critique... himself(ves)? In today's VERY strange episode, two BLS responders care for a sick baby, make a last minute switch on who is doing what, while the patient's mother seems to lose faith.
Check out this week's sponsor, In Case at getincase.com/EMS2020 !
8/16/2023 • 2 hours, 2 minutes, 13 seconds
You Can't Make Me!
Sometimes patients don't just say no, but sometimes they say f&^$ no! What happens when two responders are confronted by a verbally hostile patient? Does fighting fire with fire work? Spoiler: no, it does not.
Check out this episode's sponsor at getincase.com/EMS2020, and use PROMO CODE EMS2020 for $5 off!
8/2/2023 • 1 hour, 35 minutes, 6 seconds
Methany and the Frog
In this week's episode, Spencer tells Chris a tale about meth, altered levels of consciousness, and maybe even child protective services. Also, frogs.
7/19/2023 • 1 hour, 44 minutes, 20 seconds
Hive-way to the Danger Zone
Can the guys see where (or if) a handful of secret agents went wrong? Did they go wrong? Try to keep up with the twists and turns of this weeks episodes as everything from airway management to scene management is discussed.
7/5/2023 • 1 hour, 31 minutes, 11 seconds
Making a List... For Low SaO2
In a Lucky Charms fueled rage, Chris shares his thoughts on what it takes to be a Paramedic before the guys try and figure why a patient is so short of breath. Is it bronchoconstriction? Pulmonary Edema? Heart problems? Listen and find out!
6/21/2023 • 1 hour, 55 minutes, 58 seconds
Snapping Necks and Calling Helis
So we might not be COPS, but this episode is still bound to make you sweat as an accident in treacherous terrain interrupts the Catalina Wine Mixer. From hiking to helicopters, Chris puts Spence through the paces in this week's episode!
6/7/2023 • 1 hour, 34 minutes, 30 seconds
The Legend of Vent Machina
Spencer and Chris roll the dice on today's episode as we follow brave adventurers into the unknown as they set out with a vented patient to a nearby kingdom. What could possibly go wrong? Lots. Lots can go wrong.
5/24/2023 • 2 hours, 4 minutes, 1 second
LetterSTEMI Problems
Check out 90 Seconds: The Epic Story of Eli Beer! Support EMS 20/20 by purchasing through our affiliate links below:Amazon:https://www.amazon.com/90-Seconds-Story-United-Hatzalah/dp/1422633071?&_encoding=UTF8&tag=ems2020-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=6bd179cb5c9766c0bf582f235fd9ed9e&camp=1789&creative=9325ArtScroll (Publisher):https://www.artscroll.com/linker/EMS2020/Books/9781422633076.html
5/10/2023 • 1 hour, 34 minutes, 9 seconds
Breaking Blood Vessels
In this BLS focused episode, what you get is quintessential EMS 20/20. Multiple treatment options, CVA symptoms with hypotension, complicated crew dynamics, agency culture issues, and Chris ranting about kits.
4/26/2023 • 1 hour, 36 minutes, 37 seconds
Seizure Victim Unit
Is this episode's patient faking a seizure? Does it even matter? Or at least, does it matter more than the anger of a salty medic who terrorizes their trainee? Does THAT matter more than the ensuing medication error?
4/12/2023 • 1 hour, 31 minutes, 17 seconds
A-Hip-A
After Chris defends his position on TXA, Spencer UTTERLY STUMPS him in this week's episode where a patient is KILLED by HIP PAIN! Spoiler: Patient not actually killed by hip pain.
3/29/2023 • 1 hour, 41 minutes, 42 seconds
Bad to the (T)Bone
Spencer gives Chris some supervisor flashbacks as the guys analyze a call that may send the patient... and maybe even the crew... to their final destination. Listen and find out who lives, who dies, and who escapes death for at least two sequels.
3/15/2023 • 1 hour, 30 minutes, 59 seconds
You Give Love... A Bad Name
Spencer let's his playlist decide the title, but can the crew in today's episode decide where all the blood is coming from? Listen and find out! Listen at GuardianCME.com to get free CE!
3/1/2023 • 1 hour, 50 minutes, 18 seconds
Concert Concern
Today we fly our F-18's while launching our AAM's at some MDMA during and EDM concert! Or maybe it's SSRI's, or SS, or MAO-I's, or TCA's... or maybe we just need to RTB...
2/15/2023 • 1 hour, 35 minutes, 19 seconds
Pandammonia
Can Chris navigate his way and find the right direction as Spencer pitches an ALOC curveball? How does the crew do? And why is the receiving doctor so so mean?!
2/1/2023 • 1 hour, 53 minutes, 22 seconds
Pacing/Pressor Pressure
Special Guests from GuardianCME! Jason Seitz and Dr. Chris Seitz join the guys as they attempt to cook up an answer to a fork in the road on this weeks episode!
1/18/2023 • 1 hour, 41 minutes, 38 seconds
The One Where Bad Stuff Happens
Spencer and Chris are there for you in today's episode where a patient is "checked for police". Was the check good enough or should the crew have been more thorough? We also discuss the value of good... and honest... charting.
1/4/2023 • 1 hour, 22 minutes, 9 seconds
This Call Bugs Me
Are we dealing with another Peanut Butter Spider Sandwich situation, or is this title just clickbait? Or is it neither? An altered LOC patient has some curious and life threatening symptoms in this week's episode, and Chris briefly discusses how EMS 20/20 does advertising business at the end... if that's your thing.
12/21/2022 • 1 hour, 37 minutes, 42 seconds
Teenage Heartbreak
Maybe don't overthink the cover art, but do Chris and Spence finally argue about what to do about a really, really sick pediatric patient? Stir the oxygen tanks as the guys try and solve Houston's problem, and check our Facebook and Instagram for the EKG's associated with this episode!
12/7/2022 • 2 hours, 32 minutes, 57 seconds
The Fallout of Fallot
The title is not the give away you think it is! The guys follow a BLS crew that responds to the call no one ever wants to respond to. (WARNING: This episode contains sensitive subject matter.)
11/23/2022 • 1 hour, 35 minutes, 35 seconds
Type 1 For Doctor
Type 2 for Billing... Type 1 For Doctor. In today's episode the guys (finally) follow a BLS crew through a confusing call that involves spousal arguments and a good old fashioned dollup of just plain winging it when a patient scares the $*#@ out of his wife.
11/9/2022 • 1 hour, 34 minutes, 11 seconds
The Bourne Lift Assist
Chris and Spence are joined by Dr. Ritu Sahni and Mike Verkest of the EMS Show! Have a listen to this uplifting cross over episode that suffers from a little bit of title confusion.
10/26/2022 • 1 hour, 54 minutes, 47 seconds
G.I. Joe!
The guys go to battle with Snake Eyes and Duke against the evils of confirmation bias and... coffee grounds? Have a listen and see what goes right (and wrong) in this week's episode!
10/12/2022 • 1 hour, 31 minutes, 15 seconds
Falling into Hypoglycemia
A patient is found in the bottom of a flooded ditch and the only thing lower than their temperature is their blood sugar... a crew navigates a call that could go in any direction. Do they choose the right path? Listen and find out!
9/28/2022 • 1 hour, 45 minutes, 4 seconds
What's in the Salad? (AMS)
In these week's episode, Spencer and Chris pick apart a BLS call with really, really weird symptoms. Chris is put through the gauntlet as he tries to figure out what's causing the patient's odd behavior. Spoiler: Chris fails.
9/14/2022 • 1 hour, 41 minutes
Severus Arterious!
SORRY FOR THE DELAY! BLAME CHRIS! The guys review a call with a patient that needs just a touch of magic to a large neck wound. Was the crew able to cast the right spell? Listen and find out!
9/2/2022 • 1 hour, 40 minutes, 54 seconds
Drop It Like It's Hot
With help from gravity, two EMT's find themselves doing the one thing we swore to never do. Is today's episode a master class in recovery, or did the crew grab shovels and dig even deeper? Listen to find out as Spencer dishes out the story and Chris rants about naming medical conditions after people.
8/17/2022 • 1 hour, 42 minutes, 36 seconds
The Request For Calcium Is Denied
On today's episode Spencer and Chris exam a broken system and some broken... Calcium Channels? A sweetly named crew takes on an overdose! Do they succeed? Listen and find out!
8/3/2022 • 1 hour, 36 minutes, 20 seconds
Bicycles and Minivans
Check the body cam footage!https://youtu.be/FIJxaIUjhfo
7/20/2022 • 2 hours, 9 minutes, 19 seconds
worst. chaser. ever.
EPISODE 100!!! The guys follow the ups and downs of a call that gets some rarely used, but often talked about treatments. Did the guys learn something new? Will you? Listen and find out!
7/6/2022 • 1 hour, 12 minutes, 33 seconds
Fight and Flight
The guys get to talk about helicopters and weather and flight things in today's episode where a flight crew walks in on a call at a local ER that is being run perfectly. They have very little to add and things go smoothly. Except the opposite. Can they ultimately put the pieces of the puzzle back together to help this patient? Listen and find out!
6/22/2022 • 1 hour, 37 minutes, 50 seconds
Lawsagna
Chris and Spencer bring on Samantha (a REAL LAWYER!) and Nick from the Standard of Care podcast for a call that is plagued with legal complications. An EMT is put in the awkward position of taking a patient that may not want to go to the hospital. We touch on everything from justified assault to kidnapping to false imprisonment and more! Chris suspects that a lasagna is the root of the problem, further highlighting the need for the guys to bring in people who know what they are talking about.
6/8/2022 • 2 hours, 22 minutes, 53 seconds
Altered LOC Quest
Chris and Spencer make an attempt to unravel the mystery behind an altered level of consciousness and more importantly, they try to figure what to (and not to) do about it.
5/25/2022 • 1 hour, 20 minutes, 22 seconds
The Unimaginable Weight of Incredible Trauma
With deep, full bodied flavors of trauma and some light herbal notes of scene management during an MCI, the guys pour you a glass of wine to... decompress with.
5/11/2022 • 1 hour, 36 minutes, 20 seconds
Boldly Going (To The Birthing Center)
Spencer and Chris Boldly examine a call that occurs in a birthing center where a patient is hypotensive for obvious reasons... or are they?
4/27/2022 • 1 hour, 31 minutes, 29 seconds
Overdosed on AMS
Spencer and Chris try to stay with a crew as they wind down the treacherous rabbit hole that is an altered mental status patient. Do they take the wrong path? In short... probably, but listen and find out why they go where they go on this week's episode!
4/13/2022 • 1 hour, 29 minutes, 56 seconds
Do Not Resuscitate The 80's
You ever want to intubate someone, but they tell you no? Chris swears a little less (barely) in today's episode that examines DNR's, POLST forms, and inaccurate SaO2 probes. We also get another rant from Chris!
3/30/2022 • 1 hour, 44 minutes, 2 seconds
Bill and Bob's Excellent Misadventure
Spencer and Chris go on a crazy adventure as they explore the choices made by Bill and Bob, two partners taking care of a patient that either stayed on or fell off the wagon... with a hard thud. Is it trauma? Is it alcohol? Did they miss something? Listen and find out on this week's episode!
3/16/2022 • 1 hour, 41 minutes, 14 seconds
The Queen's Gambit
The guy's review a call where the patient is deep trouble long before anyone arrives. In one of our longer and more serious episodes, the guy's talk about what it means to lead a call and how to talk to family members when things aren't going well.
3/9/2022 • 1 hour, 59 minutes, 7 seconds
Never Ending Plot Twists
The guys are given a call that takes place in a precarious system with a patient that has no memory... and a never ending stream of twists and turns that take this call from "eh" to WTF in a hurry.
3/2/2022 • 1 hour, 18 minutes, 7 seconds
Is This Even Legal?
On this weeks episode a very sick patient is taken to the hospital... but do issues of patient abandonment arise when a Paramedic refused to be the primary provider? Listen to this weeks call and find out if Spencer and Chris can close the case.
2/23/2022 • 1 hour, 15 minutes, 43 seconds
(Please) Free CO2
A crew find a patient that rapidly deteriorates, prompting quick action. Baffling monitor readings are the result, so the Chris and Spence bring in back up: Nicole Johnson, a seasoned ICU RN and host of the Found Down podcast join the team to figure out some crazy numbers in one of our biggest episodes yet!
2/16/2022 • 2 hours, 8 minutes, 13 seconds
Never Tell Me The Odds!
In an-almost-Valentines-Day special, the guys pick a part a call that has some unusual possibilities for symptoms that started during unusual circumstances that results in an unusual diagnosis. Can the guys shed any light on this unusual episode?
2/9/2022 • 1 hour, 2 minutes, 25 seconds
STEMTRAUMI
A drunk patient decides that a new Paramedic and their partner need a one stop shop for possible problems, and they absolutely deliver. But do Chris and Spencer deliver on the education? Listen and find out!
1/26/2022 • 1 hour, 56 minutes, 56 seconds
Stay Frosty
Chris (finally) brings a call that involved an upside down truck, a frozen patient, and a frozen crew... at least when it comes to deciding on exactly what to do! Do they ever figure it out? Listen and find out!
1/19/2022 • 1 hour, 46 minutes, 53 seconds
Ambulance Ambush
A crew of three Paramedics finds themselves in a situation that no responder ever wants to be in when a patient goes Super Saiyan. Medicate? Evacuate? Also, Chris questions the validity of checking for painful stimuli and challenges the internet... will he regret it?
1/12/2022 • 1 hour, 45 minutes, 38 seconds
The Devil Wears 5.11
This week's episode features a simpler call that absolutely has some clinical errors in it... but are they a result of a bad partnership? Which is more toxic: the patient or the work environment? Listen and find out in this intense episode of EMS 20/20!
1/5/2022 • 1 hour, 52 minutes, 20 seconds
The Usual Suspects
In the 80th Episode of EMS 20/20, a car crash leads to a highly symptomatic patient... but why? Is it trauma, or was there a medical event that caused the crash? Is it both? Be sure to view the EKG on our social media and see if you can figure it out before we do!
12/22/2021 • 1 hour, 44 minutes, 24 seconds
Respiratory "S" Word Virus
Spencer and Chris dive into a call where parental controls are in play as a pediatric patient struggles to breathe. How do you both treat a patient and calm scared parents? Listen and find out!
12/15/2021 • 1 hour, 44 minutes, 46 seconds
It Won't Stop Bleeding
Like a leaky faucet, a patient's leg has sprung a leak and a BLS crew does their best to stop the out of control flow. Do they dam the river? Find out on this week's episode!
12/8/2021 • 1 hour, 39 minutes, 30 seconds
Hit or Stay?
LISTENER FEEDBACK WANTED! A crew has to make a hard choice... stay and play or load and go? With a rapidly closing window to make a hard decision does the crew make the right choice? Spence and Chris give their opinions and ask for yours in this weeks episode!
12/1/2021 • 1 hour, 39 minutes, 17 seconds
Interpersonal Transfer
This week's call takes us to a chaotic and tense ER as a crew picks up a very sick patient to transfer them to a higher level of care. Interpersonal Communication takes center stage in this episode as Chris and Spencer play counselor.
11/24/2021 • 1 hour, 20 minutes, 26 seconds
Tough Crowd
Caught between quelling both a grumpy crowd and an unruly airway, a group of Care Bears are faced with problems from every angle. Do they prevail? Could they have prevailed? The guys go the distance to find out in this weeks episode!
11/10/2021 • 2 hours, 11 minutes, 47 seconds
Suspicious Heartache
A patient presents with classic signs of a heart attack... but is it? Spencer attempts to stump Chris (and possibly succeeds) in this weeks episode! Also... Chris tees off on physicians with Dr. House Syndrome ;)
11/3/2021 • 1 hour, 32 minutes, 46 seconds
Venti Sized Suckage
A Paramedic orders a Grande but ends up with a Venti sized problem on their hands. The guys try to answer one question: is there such a thing as too much coffee?
10/27/2021 • 1 hour, 4 minutes, 6 seconds
Should I Touch It?
A patient with a OW troubling and painOWful experience is treated by a OW crew OW that may be jumping to conclusions. Can our hosts offer up some sage advice without making too many Star Trek references? Can a patients implanted defibrillator shock you? Listen and find out!
10/20/2021 • 1 hour, 32 minutes, 16 seconds
Indiana Jonesing
A young patient is mentally stranded in space as a crew tries their best to figure out what, if anything could be wrong with this patient. Is it drugs? Is it a stroke? Listen and find out!
10/13/2021 • 1 hour, 29 minutes, 43 seconds
The Devil's Lettuce
In our 70th episode we talk about a call with a very difficult and vibrating (yes, vibrating) patient that is paired with a difficult partner. Just how bad can imitation marijuana be? Listen and find out!
10/6/2021 • 1 hour, 20 minutes, 46 seconds
Drinking with a Broken Heart
In today's episode we learn that Chris cannot take a scooter seriously as the guys analyze the treatment of a patient with an incredibly rare condition!
9/29/2021 • 1 hour, 20 minutes, 59 seconds
Fuster Cluck
An EMT Advanced finds themselves helming a call that just cannot seem to take a right turn. Can Spence and Chris spot the problem(s)? Have a listen and let us know what you think!
Do you want to get FREE CE credits for listening? EMS 20/20 is teaming up with Guardian Test Prep to make it happen. Head over to www.guardiancme.com and add your name to the mailing list ASAP. We will tell you the second you are able to get free CE credits for listening to EMS 20/20 and we won't spam your inbox.
9/22/2021 • 1 hour, 32 minutes, 26 seconds
Flying or Lying?
In this weeks episode the guys run through a call about trust and helicopters in our first ever call from a Flight Paramedic! Can our crew sort out the truth before committing limited resources to a patient? Listen and find out!
9/15/2021 • 1 hour, 16 minutes, 53 seconds
Dead Versus Half Dead
A crew of responders finds themselves evacuating a hoarder home after finding one body and one patient who is really trying to be a body. Listen in to this weeks episode to see if this cluster of a call could have been changed for the better!
9/8/2021 • 1 hour, 9 minutes, 7 seconds
PB and Code
Spencer brings a code with a very sticky problem while Chris brings unrelated science. Listen and find out if Chris and Spence can get to the bottom of this harrowing call.
9/1/2021 • 1 hour, 23 minutes, 5 seconds
Diagnosis: Everything
In what may be our longest episode to date, Spencer and Chris tackle a call in which a patient has... everything. They have everything. So what can one do with so many paths to take? Listen and find out on this weeks epic episode!
8/25/2021 • 1 hour, 41 minutes, 4 seconds
Ego Contusion
This time Spencer takes a swing at making a double episode as Chris tries to spot a common theme. Sometimes calls can be so easy they're hard. Have a listen and see if you can guess what gets missed before the guys do!
8/18/2021 • 1 hour, 20 minutes, 15 seconds
Fast and Furious (and Futile?)
A patient continues to slide downhill while an ambulance crew acts quickly to stop the decline... but can they? Could they have? Listen this week as the guys go through a difficult pediatric call to try and find some answers.
8/11/2021 • 1 hour, 17 minutes, 42 seconds
It Takes Two To Trauma
In this weeks episode Chris brings not one, but two trauma calls! The guys delve into common injury masks as well as the ever present backboard controversy.
8/4/2021 • 1 hour, 29 minutes, 45 seconds
Shouldering the Weight of the World
A Paramedic shoulders the weight of a hectic call. Sedation, Intubation, Ventilation, Defibrillation, Exasperation... all the ations are present in this weeks absolutely epic episode!
7/28/2021 • 1 hour, 42 minutes, 4 seconds
A Secret Crush
A 700 pound patient just needs a hand up... or at least that's what this weeks crew were hoping for. We'll hold the spoilers, but this call tips the scales when it comes to twists, turns, and diagnosis.
7/21/2021 • 1 hour, 27 minutes, 46 seconds
Narcan Needs A Break
A pair of medics take on a call with a pretty straight forward history with what should have been a pretty straight forward solution. But this is EMS 20/20...
7/14/2021 • 54 minutes, 19 seconds
Drowning In Uncertainty
WTF is wrong with this patient... is the perfect way to introduce today's episode! A seemingly basic call turns into a near death experience that is saved by... a pothole?
7/8/2021 • 1 hour, 13 minutes, 10 seconds
Trauma Induced Chaos
Confusions sets in as a Paramedic attempts to locate a trauma patient and... their partner? The guys work their way through a chaotic scene, so listen and find out if this weeks crew finds the right ingredients to pull it all together.
6/30/2021 • 1 hour, 24 minutes, 25 seconds
Are We There Yet?
The guys pick apart a call where the provides look too closely and find something no one saw coming, but only after challenging YOU, the listeners to come up with the best code 3 driving music!
As we announced in this weeks episode, we want to hear your favorite code 3 (that's driving with lights and sirens) song! Add it in the comments below (feel free to tell us why). In two weeks we'll tell you which of the songs you submitted is our favorite and that person will win a prize!
6/23/2021 • 1 hour, 8 minutes, 37 seconds
Always Play the Odds
The guys review a call that involves a COVID patient that really keeps trying to die and Spencer ruins French cuisine. Does the crew pull it out and save the day? Listen and find out!
6/16/2021 • 1 hour, 17 minutes, 19 seconds
One is (Almost) Never Enough
Like frames in a hit movie about landing a plane in the Hudson River, EKG's are but a single moment in time. Dr. Seitz joins in this weeks episode and guys read YOUR responses from last weeks EKG. Does the crew make the right call? Listen and find out!
NREMT tests looming? Need to refresh? Join Seitz and Sirens TODAY with the promo code EMS2020 for 20% off!
https://www.seitzandsirens.com
6/10/2021 • 1 hour, 36 minutes, 25 seconds
Won the Battle, Lost the War
A call that will make your jaw drop with just how many battles had to be fought just to lose out in the end. This one was a hard one to review, but the guys plowed through it and brought you over an hour of facepalming...
6/2/2021 • 1 hour, 24 minutes, 22 seconds
The Petty Difference
Petty assumptions get critically in the way as friction between crews cause some waves. Do they recover? Chris and Spencer pull out way too many lessons from just a single call in this weeks episode.
5/26/2021 • 1 hour, 1 minute, 41 seconds
Use Restraint(s)
In their 50th episode, Chris and Spencer analyze a call where a provider finds themselves one on one with a combative mental health patient. Could this have been avoided?
5/19/2021 • 1 hour, 35 minutes, 2 seconds
All The Sound We Cannot Hear
What would Spencer do becomes the name of the game as the guys pull apart a call that is more about what you can't hear than what you can. Does the crew pull it off? Listen and find out!
5/12/2021 • 1 hour, 18 minutes, 34 seconds
Syncope Suspects
An absolutely killer episode where Chris is put to the test as he evaluates a syncope patient that... refuses care? Should they have refused? Does Chris miss something? Listen and find out!
5/5/2021 • 1 hour, 9 minutes, 34 seconds
Legally Drunkabetic
Spencer and Chris examine a case where the medical treatment goes smoothly... but the question remains: Who can refuse transport? And is sharing information with police a HIPAA violation? You asked for it, we delivered! Listen to find out!
4/28/2021 • 53 minutes, 27 seconds
To Tube or Not to Tube...
Two Paramedics approach a patient with vastly different treatment plans in mind... Chris and Spencer are called in to judge who is right and who is wrong. Can they do it? Is there even a clear winner? Find out!
4/21/2021 • 1 hour, 5 minutes, 52 seconds
One of Our Own
Sometimes we are put in the terrible position to treat one of our own! The guys call in Dr. Seitz from Seitz and Sirens to dissect the treatment of a reaction caused by a sneaky strawberry.
4/14/2021 • 1 hour, 37 minutes, 11 seconds
Peanut Butter Spider Sandwich
The Delayed Sequence Intubation episode you've all been waiting for! Plus Spiders! Plus Mmmhopps beer! What a time to be alive, and hopefully the crew in this call can keep a very sick patient from falling off the oxygenation cliff!
3/31/2021 • 1 hour, 21 minutes, 30 seconds
Minor Mistake, Major Consequence
The guys break down a call where too much of a good thing is administered with catastrophic consequences. What could have prevented this, or could it have been prevented at all? And what should happen to the provider who made the mistake? Listen as this weeks episode explores how easily things can go way wrong!
3/24/2021 • 1 hour, 13 minutes, 34 seconds
We're Gonna Need A Bigger Rig
Mandy Krekora joins the guys to answer your airway questions (RSI vs DSI, anyone?) and dive into a hectic airway nightmare that involves a sleepy giant, vanilla Ensure and an oddly placed trashcan.
In addition to being on EMS 20/20, you can learn even more from Mandy on April 5th, 6th, 8th, and 9th as she puts on the Bariatric Airway Bootcamp, a unique and rare opportunity to practice airway techniques on actual bariatric cadavers in the Denver, Colorado area! Follow the link below:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/bariatric-airway-bootcamp-tickets-140628909855?fbclid=IwAR1-fgt6TAWSMGk2ME8YLtEDhwWnzcODZfVBMHfmX2d1A8UpAGspso_pD4k
3/17/2021 • 1 hour, 27 minutes, 14 seconds
Shoulda Woulda Coulda
Chris and Spence review a call where a missed opportunity leads to... an accurate diagnosis? The guys analyze a call that illustrates that while recovering from a mistake is good, not making the mistake in the first place is probably a wee bit better.
3/10/2021 • 1 hour, 3 minutes, 48 seconds
The Critical Truth
Spencer and Chris go over an interfacility transfer gone awry... and they dig deep into the issue of crew integrity. A septic patient with a drug abuse history misses out on critical treatments that may have cost them.
3/3/2021 • 1 hour, 9 minutes, 17 seconds
Gut Feeling
A psychic EMT makes a prediction... but are his psychic abilities any match for another responders experience? Does anyone even make a mistake in this episode? Find out as the guys explore an unpredictable (maybe) call!
2/24/2021 • 1 hour, 18 minutes, 51 seconds
Everything But The Gun
In this week's episode, Spencer and Chris dissect a call where two problems met: a tired crew and an oddly presenting patient. Did the crew overcome their fatigue to perform in a way that makes EMS proud? Spoiler: Nope.
2/17/2021 • 56 minutes, 58 seconds
When School Gets It Wrong
Chris and Spencer examine a call where a patient goes from pretty OK to really, really bad. Is this something that school could have prepared the crew for? Or is this one of those reality check moments?
2/10/2021 • 1 hour, 16 minutes, 16 seconds
Help Wanted!
An unusual pairing of Paramedics in an unusual setting in an unfamiliar area creates for an ungood circumstance. Spencer and Chris go the distance in dissecting a call that takes place in the middle of a foot race!
2/3/2021 • 1 hour, 13 minutes, 14 seconds
This Shouldn't Be Happening...
The guys review a substantially disjointed call in which a patient is coded... or are they? How can a densely, perhaps even over-resourced system miss THIS?
1/27/2021 • 1 hour, 9 minutes, 26 seconds
Forgetting How To Walk
Leading your first code with minimal resources can be likened to being birthed as a baby giraffe learning what legs are for. Spencer and Chris review a new Paramedic doing exactly that as they come back with another episode aimed at helping new providers climb those first hurdles!
1/20/2021 • 45 minutes, 53 seconds
Four Years Versus Twelve Leads
Spencer nerds out over an interesting 12-lead and flexes his EKG knowledge as the guys analyze a call in which a responder misses a STEMI... or did he?
1/13/2021 • 1 hour, 5 minutes, 43 seconds
Wait... You Did What?
Crew's respond to a care facility where a medication was given incorrectly... and that's not even the worst thing that happens... Listen to this weeks episode of EMS 20/20 to find out how a bad situation can be made even worse!
1/6/2021 • 1 hour, 55 seconds
Going the Distance
What happens when a patient starves themselves (almost) to death? What's the difference between a clinical overreaction and a Dr. House moment? In an EMS 20/20 first ever double header, the guys explore two calls with some unique challenges and an overarching theme.
12/30/2020 • 1 hour, 29 minutes, 20 seconds
Soft Touch for a Hard Hit
Alcohol, boyfriends, alcohol, a dog, and more alcohol. Spencer and Chris analyze a call where an experienced crew deal with an untrusting patient, a loud (but hilarious) boyfriend, and a dog named Falcor that really couldn't care less.
12/23/2020 • 1 hour, 14 minutes, 32 seconds
Sounds Like A Duck...
If it sounds like a duck, it must be one, right? Have a listen as Paramedics Baller, Shot Caller, and Impala unsuccessfully shock a patient. You too can be shocked: For the first time ever in the history of the universe... CHRIS IS WRONG.
12/16/2020 • 1 hour, 9 minutes, 31 seconds
A Lazy Game of Hot Potato
Spencer and Chris unravel a complicated scene that didn't need to happen. The only thing harder to find than this patients pulse is the history of his present illness! Do they ever find it? Have a listen and find out!
12/2/2020 • 58 minutes, 38 seconds
I Wanna Roc!
Chris and Spencer review one helluva a breathing call! That's right, two back to back breathing episodes, but this one has a special twist: what happens when the thing that always works... doesn't? And can adding a doctor to a call always make things better? Have a listen and find out!
11/25/2020 • 59 minutes, 24 seconds
Passing the Baton
Q-tip and Cotton Ball respond to an urgent care clinic where staff has a reasonable plan with unreasonable expectations for a young asthma patient. The call goes from bad to better to way worse as Chris and Spencer comb through the details in this week's episode!
11/18/2020 • 52 minutes, 6 seconds
Pump the Brakes
A new Paramedic careens down an unsafe road but is thankfully stopped before something disastrous happens by a more experienced Paramedic... only to miss other warning signs further down the road. Have a listen as Chris and Spencer map out a safe route through a tricky situation!
11/11/2020 • 57 minutes, 39 seconds
It's Not You, It's Me
A Paramedic does a fantastic thorough assessment, thinks outside the box, and delivers appropriate care, but the patient still wants some space from being alive. Is there something the crew could have done better after all? Have a listen and find out!
11/4/2020 • 56 minutes
Painful Realization
CONTROVERSY WARNING! So just how good are pre-hospital providers at evaluating and treating pain? Can we call a faker out with any accuracy? Are we giving too much pain medication? Too little? Dr. Seitz from https://www.seitzandsirens.com joins Chris and Spencer in one of the most controversial episodes yet!
10/28/2020 • 1 hour, 5 minutes, 51 seconds
Uncomfortably Pregnant
Spence and Chris talk about a call where two Paramedics cross their fingers, close their eyes, and just hope a call goes away. But guess what? In EMS, you don't get to do that. Listen and find out why!
10/21/2020 • 52 minutes, 51 seconds
Clownfish Learns His ABC's...
A couple of fish are taken to school as Clownfish and Anglerfish learn the finer points of time management. Does it cost the patient dearly? Does it even matter? Would Chris have done any better? Find out on this weeks episode of EMS 20/20!
10/14/2020 • 54 minutes, 46 seconds
I See Dead People
Abdominal pain turns code turns DOUBLE CODE. A seasoned Paramedic finds herself alone at the top of the EMS food chain trying to get pulses back in not one but two people who really, really need pulses. How does she manage the chaos? Listen and find out! ALSO: New intro that Chris changed at the last minute... sorry Spence!
10/7/2020 • 1 hour, 18 minutes, 55 seconds
Dissecting an FTO's Failure
Spencer brings a case with a patient that is absolutely totally fine...until he absolutely totally isn't. A trainee and his trainer let their hopes for the best obscure the worst in a case that even had Chris shrugging his shoulders.
9/30/2020 • 1 hour, 13 minutes, 12 seconds
Sometimes Everyone Drowns
Chris and Spence talk about a drowning Paramedic... er, patient! Maybe both? What happens when the sole Paramedic on scene can't pull the trigger? Listen to find out as the guys talk about rapid and delayed sequence intubation as well the pushing the limits of the scope of practice!
9/23/2020 • 1 hour, 2 minutes, 15 seconds
The Non-Episode Episode
This week Chris and Spencer do... nothing! Spencer is out helping areas affected by the fires here in Oregon as on site medical staff. But no worries! Next week we will be back on track with a new episode!
9/16/2020 • 55 seconds
Critiquing the Crossroads
The guys are joined by Dr. Chris Seitz, and ER physician who helps bring some much needed perspective to last weeks complex episode. Was CPAP the right thing to do? Were pressers needed? What about intubation? It all gets answered on this week's deep dive!
Need to pass your NREMT exam? Check out Seitz and Sirens and get it done! Use promo code EMS2020 for a discount! https://www.seitzandsirens.com/emt-test-prep
9/9/2020 • 57 minutes, 42 seconds
Critical Crossroads
The guys follow a harrowing call where two Paramedics, Dingo and Corgi, come to a crossroad on a very ill patient. The crew will need to make a decision on how to treat this critically sick patient. Are they able to make the right choice? Are they able to make a choice at all? In the follow up episode next week, we will be joined by Dr. Chris Seitz from Seitz and Sirens! https://www.seitzandsirens.com/emt-test-prep
9/2/2020 • 1 hour, 10 minutes, 58 seconds
Soft Shell Redemption
Soft Shell returns from last week as Spencer and Chris discuss the ins and outs of subarachnoid bleeds. What can cause them, what they can do to the patient, and what we can do in the field, the guys cover it all as they review Soft Shell's redemption.
8/26/2020 • 40 minutes, 40 seconds
Soft Sell from Soft Shell
As a freshly minted lead Paramedic, Soft Shelled Turtle comes across a patient with a telling set of symptoms that go from bad to worse. To make matter more interesting, Softy decides that the patients condition is better delivered as a surprise to receiving ER, leading to pure pandemonium.
8/19/2020 • 48 minutes, 39 seconds
Head and the Heart
This week's episode is a deep dive into what Lone Wolf nailed in They Have A History of Heart. Spencer and Chris talk about talking to patients, the one skill you need on quite literally every call, but the one skill that few have truly mastered... including us!
8/12/2020 • 1 hour, 1 minute, 35 seconds
They Have A History Of Heart
Lone Wolf, an experienced Paramedic, puts on a master class of communicating with a jackass of a patient... but makes one single misstep that almost costs the patient their life! Chris and Spence review a call that could be all too real to anyone in the field as a difficult patient makes history taking a challenge.
8/5/2020 • 53 minutes, 24 seconds
Sed8tion Lessons from the Sk8ter Boy
Spencer and Chris talk about Sedatives and Paralytics commonly used in EMS. Why should you pick one over the other? What are the pros and cons of each? Did you know that paralysis does not equal sedation? Because it really doesn't.
7/29/2020 • 54 minutes, 40 seconds
The Sk8ter Boy
Nicknames return! A crew secures an airway in a calm, decisive manner and begins transport on their trauma patient. Easy going from here on in, right? ...right?
7/22/2020 • 50 minutes, 43 seconds
Airway Anyone? ...Anyone?
Chris and Spencer identify the key skill to being a good PIC while examining a leaderless scene. A team overstays their welcome, an airway lingers for too long, and a crew member disappears.
7/8/2020 • 53 minutes, 46 seconds
Trying to Coach Your Patient To Death
Spencer and Chris dig into a call where assumptions run wild and a Paramedic makes an attempt to coach someone out of a life threatening disease.
6/24/2020 • 36 minutes, 59 seconds
Fight Night! Are Pricey Manikins Worth It?
In the first ever Fight Night episode, Spencer and Chris debate whether or not expensive dummies are worth the cost! Let us know who won!
6/19/2020 • 24 minutes, 25 seconds
The Correct Way to do Things Wrong
Spencer and Chris pick a part a call where a tube stays in place longer than it should and the crew doesn't stay in place long enough. An end tidal of 0 and a load-and-go code 99? Someone messed up... or did they?
6/10/2020 • 43 minutes, 40 seconds
Hypothesis for Hypotension
Chris and Spencer dig into a call where a patient has a mysterious onset of sudden hypotension. A lone Paramedic has hard choices to make with little in the way of vital signs, presenting decision making roadblocks to overcome.
5/27/2020 • 43 minutes, 59 seconds
Amputee with an AMI
Chris and Spencer talk about a call that just doesn't stop getting worse as a mix of veteran and new providers tackle a chest pain patient with a complicated history.
5/13/2020 • 1 hour, 1 minute, 1 second
Shocking Mistakes
Spence and Chris discuss the pitfalls of assessment short cuts as they review a scenario that gets harder and harder to listen to as the call goes on.
5/13/2020 • 51 minutes, 12 seconds
Seize... sure?
Chris and Spencer review a scenario in which a disagreement over a pediatric patient leads to delayed treatment.