EMTprep Pulse Check

Cardiac Emergencies

In this episode of EMTprep Pulse Check, we explore the vital topic of Cardiac Emergencies, equipping listeners with the knowledge and confidence to recognize, assess, and respond to some of the most time-sensitive and life-threatening conditions in EMS. The episode covers high-yield content such as recognizing signs and symptoms of acute coronary syndromes, managing chest pain, understanding the pathophysiology of myocardial infarction, and identifying life-threatening dysrhythmias like ventricular fibrillation and pulseless ventricular tachycardia.
Listeners will also review the key elements of prehospital cardiac care, including the use of oxygen, aspirin, and automated external defibrillators (AEDs), and how to work effectively within the chain of survival. Real-world examples and clinical reasoning help connect textbook knowledge to field performance, making this episode an essential listen for both exam preparation and operational readiness.
What You’ll Learn:
How to identify and manage acute coronary syndromes in the field
The differences between angina, STEMI, and cardiac arrest presentations
Prehospital interventions such as oxygen, aspirin, and AED use
When to activate rapid transport or ALS backup
Key Takeaways:
Early recognition and timely intervention are crucial to patient survival in cardiac emergencies
EMTs play a critical role in initiating care and preparing for advanced interventions
Understanding cardiac signs and symptoms improves both patient outcomes and test performance

BLS Airway Management

In this episode of EMTprep Pulse Check, we focus on the essential skills and principles of Basic Life Support (BLS) Airway Management. Mastering airway techniques is critical for every EMT, as it forms the foundation of effective emergency care. Whether you're preparing for the NREMT or sharpening your clinical readiness, this episode provides a concise, practical review of what you need to know.
The discussion outlines the core components of BLS airway management, including the assessment of airway patency, the use of manual airway maneuvers such as head-tilt chin-lift and jaw thrust, and the proper application of airway adjuncts, including OPA and NPA devices. You'll also receive a breakdown of suction techniques, oxygen delivery devices, and guidance on managing patients with compromised or obstructed airways.
Throughout the episode, you’ll hear real-world insights and clinical scenarios that help link these skills to field applications, reinforcing not only how to perform them but also when and why they matter.
What You’ll Learn:
How to identify and manage airway obstruction in a BLS setting
Techniques for opening and maintaining the airway
When and how to use OPA, NPA, and suction
Overview of oxygen delivery methods, including nasal cannula and non-rebreather masks
Decision-making in airway emergencies and trauma
Key Takeaways:
Airway management is the top priority in the patient assessment triangle: airway, breathing, circulation
BLS providers have a range of tools and techniques available, even without advanced interventions
Practicing good technique and recognizing subtle signs of airway compromise can save lives

Introduction and Basic A&P Review

Welcome to the debut episode of EMTprep Pulse Check, the podcast built to sharpen your knowledge, help you ace your exams, and keep you ready for the field. In this opening session, we lay the groundwork for what to expect in future episodes and explain how this series will support your EMTprep.com learning experience.
We begin by introducing the format and goals of the podcast. The series is designed to provide clear, accessible explanations of EMT content, reinforce high-yield exam material, and connect classroom learning to real-world EMS situations. Whether you're preparing for the NREMT, currently enrolled in an EMT course, or reviewing foundational knowledge as a practicing provider, this podcast is meant to meet your needs.
The focus of this episode is on Basic Anatomy and Physiology, one of the most essential areas of EMS knowledge. Listeners are guided through the major body systems from a functional perspective, with an emphasis on how each system supports homeostasis and responds to injury or illness. We also cover the language of A&P, including key terminology, directional terms, and important structures every EMT should recognize.
Throughout the episode, A&P concepts are tied to real EMS applications. For example, we explore how an understanding of perfusion helps explain shock and how neurological changes relate to stroke symptoms. This is not just academic content. It is the framework EMTs use to interpret symptoms, make decisions, and provide care in high-pressure environments.
By the end of this episode, you will have a stronger understanding of why A&P is more than just a test topic. It is a clinical tool that will support your work throughout your EMS career.
What You’ll Learn:
An overview of how EMTprep Pulse Check supports your exam prep and field performance
The importance of mastering basic A&P for EMTs
Key body systems and their roles in emergency response (e.g., respiratory, cardiovascular, nervous)
Common terminology and directional references used in EMS
How A&P knowledge is applied to real-world EMS scenarios and NREMT test questions
Key Takeaways:
Understanding structure-function relationships is vital for clinical decision-making in the field
EMS professionals rely on anatomical terminology for communication and precision
Foundational A&P knowledge is a frequent focus of NREMT exam content