Respiratory emergencies can appear suddenly and seemingly without warning. In some patients, anaphylaxis sends the body into a state of crisis, making breathing difficult or impossible and obstructing the airway. As with any respiratory emergency, having the right suction unit ready and functional is key to managing the crisis. Here’s what you need to know about managing anaphylaxis and other respiratory emergencies.

As every first responder eventually learns, preparedness saves lives. Mass casualty incidents (MCIs) are increasingly common, with more than 14,000 such events documented in EMS databases in the 2010 National EMS Database of the National Emergency Medical Services Information System (NEMSIS).

Summer is just around the corner, and with it comes a slew of summer-related emergencies. From natural disasters to drownings to close encounters with stinging insects, the warm months usher in a plethora of deadly events that you, the emergency responder, must be prepared for.

We all know what an important role the 911 system plays in communities throughout the United States, but the role of EMS goes well beyond responding to fire and medical emergencies. Today, departments are realizing the impact they can have throughout their cities by getting involved in public outreach and education.

Pediatric airway obstruction may be a rare occurrence for EMS responders, but they are a frequent cause of pediatric death worldwide. According to the Mayo Clinic, choking is a common cause of injury and death among children.¹ And it could simply be a matter of time before you are called upon to relieve an obstructed airway or treat a child who is choking.

Mobile dentistry has become a progressive trend in medicine. By making dental care available to those who lack access to basic treatment, mobile dentistry improves the lives and health of populations around the world.

Airway obstruction can be one of the most intensive calls that requires a response from you, the rescuer. Few emergencies require such decisive, immediate action as an obstructed airway. You must recognize the signs, decide on an appropriate course of action, and treat effectively so the obstruction can be relieved and airway patency restored.

EMTs may not be able to perform the full range of advanced airway options that paramedics typically employ, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t responsible for recognizing a tenuous airway, performing a thorough assessment, and choosing the appropriate treatment strategy. All emergency responders must be capable of airway interventions, so today we’ll discuss the ins and outs of respiration and five things EMTs should always remember when dealing with respiratory emergencies.

The primary focus of most tactical medical kits is traumatic injury. These lightweight kits usually include equipment to handle different forms of trauma, from specialized bandages to chest seals and tourniquets.

When you think about the components of a well-equipped tactical medical kit, what naturally come to mind are the tools needed to deal with trauma-related injuries: hemostatic agents, dressings and bandages, and tourniquets and chest seals. What may not spring to mind is your portable suction unit. But it should. If you’re trying to control oral exsanguination or attempting to visualize the cords during intubation, nothing can take the place of an effective portable suction unit.