Back to Basics

Putting the FUN in FUNctional Medicine - Part 1 Jan 27, 2025

Chris and Jason discuss traditional vs functional medicine and what role functional medicine is taking in traditional healthcare.

Airway Access - Part 2 May 30, 2024

This is part 2 our the Airway Access podcast. Everyone who has taken a CPR course or dabbled in the most elementary medical courses has learned the ABCs, understanding that airway access for ventilatory management plays a pivotal role in patient outcomes. In this course, the Seitz brothers will review the anatomy of the upper and lower airway and the major interventions we perform to secure the airway and deliver ventilations and vital oxygen to patients.

Airway Access - Part 1 Apr 25, 2024

Everyone who has taken a CPR course or dabbled in the most elementary medical courses has learned the ABCs, understanding that airway access for ventilatory management plays a pivotal role in patient outcomes. In this course, the Seitz brothers will review the anatomy of the upper and lower airway and the major interventions we perform to secure the airway and deliver ventilations and vital oxygen to patients.

Foundation of Stroke and Stroke Recognition Jan 17, 2024

Stroke affects 795,000 Americans each year and is the 2nd leading cause of death and 3rd leading cause of death & disability combined worldwide. Globally, Stroke also results in over $721 billion in annual cost and $53 billion in US annual cost between 2017 and 2018. Stroke is an important area for healthcare professionals to concentrate on to make a difference in patient's lives, but before we can understand how to help, we have to understand what we are up against.

Big changes at Guardian and Back to Basics - Dec 2023 Update Dec 06, 2023

I promise you we haven’t been asleep at the switch and will be bringing you quite a bit of content very soon. Some of which I’ll allow you to peek behind the curtain with me and get a snippet of today. So buckle up for the next couple minutes to find out what new things are coming to Guardian, and then on to hear a short 30-minute lecture on toxicology from our NREMT test prep program.

“11 out of 10” - Pain Management Sep 07, 2023

“How would you rate your pain today on a scale of 1 to 10?” Answer: “11/10” We hear it all the time, and as providers can be quick to judge claims of severe pain as lies to gain opiates, or overreactions to illicit faster care. The truth of the matter is that pain is a symptom that is misunderstood and stigmatized. Pain management is an essential part of what we do as providers and patient comfort has more benefits to healing than you might think. In today’s episode, we’ll discuss pain and its unique challenges to treatment.

Antibiotics and the Threat of Antibiotic Resistance Aug 17, 2023

Ever wonder how Antibiotics work? How do they differ from Antivirals? If they're so great, why don’t we just always take or prescribe them so we don’t get sick? Is Antibiotic resistance a real threat? Well, we hope you wonder about these things because that’s what Jason spent all week researching to teach you in this one. Enjoy!”

Advanced Cardiac Life Support Part 2 Jul 26, 2023

Advanced Cardiac Life Support is a staple training in the medical industry and for good reason. Its algorithms teach comprehensive and effective responses for the most common types of cardiac emergencies. Join Chris and Jason in this episode as they take the “A” in ACLS back to “B” Part 2 of 2

Advanced Cardiac Life Support Part 1 Jun 22, 2023

Advanced Cardiac Life Support is a staple training in the medical industry and for good reason. Its algorithms teach comprehensive and effective responses for the most common types of cardiac emergencies. Join Chris and Jason in this episode as they take the “A” in ACLS back to “B” Part 1 of 2

"Everybody’s Doing It” - Bowel Elimination and Why it Matters Jun 08, 2023

In this rather Crappy episode, Chris and Jason talk about Bowel elimination, and why we should be paying close attention to it. The GI system plays an important role in maintaining our body's health, and when things go wrong you and your patients may find yourself in deep doody. Glove up, plug your nose, and let's get to work.

"Breaking Bad Badly" - Meth and Other Non-Opioid Illicit Drugs May 18, 2023

"Breaking Bad Badly" - Meth and Other Non-Opioid Illicit Drugs

Episode II “Force Injuries” May 04, 2023

May the 4th be with you. Always.

Sepsis - "The Sickest Syndrome" Apr 19, 2023

We’ve all experienced an infection in our lives, but what happens if we can’t kick it? Today the Seitz brothers cover our bodies' overwhelming and life-threatening response to infection, known as sepsis. Why does it happen? How can we assess for it? Who is at risk? What do we do when we discover it? Take a listen for the answers to these questions and more.

"Ringing Your Bell" - Concussions and Head Injuries Mar 30, 2023

Put your helmet on for this one folks! In this episode, Jason and Chris cover Traumatic Brain Injuries. What's the difference between a concussion, a subdural hematoma, and intracranial hemorrhage? Can you go to sleep after suffering a concussion? What happens inside his brain when Jason spends the afternoon slamming his head into medical textbooks? Get the answers to all these questions and more!

50th Anniversary Episode Mar 15, 2023

Back to Basics has turned 50! These last two years have been an adventure and we are glad you joined us for the journey. In this episode, Chris and Jason discuss how Back 2 Basics started and what the future holds. As always, we look forward to hearing your feedback on the podcast and topics you want Chris and Jason to discuss. Stay sweet!

C02 and You - Capnography Feb 16, 2023

End Tidal C02 is one of the most underrated vital signs out there. We’ve ignored this useful tool long enough. Join Jason and Chris as they describe how using this simple device can improve your understanding of your patient's respiratory physiology, acid/base balance, and even improve your resuscitative efforts.

Basic Life Support Feb 01, 2023

BLS - all providers need it, but do we really know it, or is it just a class we snooze through every two years? Basic Life Support is quite literally the foundation of life-saving techniques that all providers should be not just acquainted with but know thoroughly. In this episode, the Seitz brothers truly take you back to the basics, breaking down the ABCs of, well….the ABCs.

Back to Basics and EMS20/20 Pacing/Pressor Pressure Jan 19, 2023

The crossover event of the century! In this episode Back to Basics and EMS 20/20 combine all of their medical zords into one giant medical megazord of knowledge and fun. Back to Basics hosts Dr. Seitz and Jason join their good friends Chris Pfingstein and Spencer Oliver from EMS 20/20 to review a submitted cardiac case. Is it a STEMI? Is it a Block? Is it Hypotension? Is it all of that and more? What can we learn from it? Listen to find out!

46 - Pneumothoraces Jan 11, 2023

In this episode, Jason and Chris walk you through the lungs and when they collapse. Not the balloon you might think, the spongy tissue of the lungs “collapses” when air enters the pleural space between the outer layers of the lung tissue. Whether these layers remind you of a pillow case, a hot pocket, a garbage bag, or anything in between, we’ll leave it up to you…some analogies don’t land so well.

The Future of Medical Assessment with Virtual Reality Jan 04, 2023

VRpatients takes healthcare education to a new level with their virtual reality patient care platform. In this episode, Chris and Jason run through a few virtual reality scenarios and discuss how VR can provide more comprehensive training for healthcare professionals.

Body Betrayed - Neuromuscular Disorders Dec 23, 2022

In this episode, the Seitz brothers cover Neuromuscular disorders. Well, really more peripheral nervous system disorders and degenerative neurological disorders that affect the peripheral nervous system and motor function, but who can fit all that into a title? Lots of Venn Diagram discussion too, as an added bonus.

"Mind-Trap" Psych Conditions Dec 07, 2022

This time, the Seitz brothers travel into the mind to define psych conditions. While you may not diagnose these conditions, recognizing their symptoms can help you have a better understanding of your patients and lead them to a healthier, happier life.

Diabetes Oct 19, 2022

In this sweet episode, Jason and Chris review the ins and outs of how your body reacts to and produces glucose and insulin to keep you from being sour. Learn how Diabetes affects the body, and how to adequately treat low and high sugar emergencies in the field.

You Can't Handle the Truth - Medical Legal Oct 12, 2022

In this episode, Chris and Jason go over the legal principles and terminology you need to know to be able to safely administer care to your patients. Protect your patients and your own health, privacy, and dignity by making sure you're adhering to the laws designed to help providers do their job.

STD's - Love Bugs Sep 20, 2022

In this episode, Chris and Jason talk about sexually transmitted diseases. Learn how they are transmitted, how to identify when they are life-threatening, and what first responders need to know about treating them.

Cardiac Medications Sep 13, 2022

Diving into the most common types of cardiac medications, Jason and Chris discuss the value of understanding the medications you may not use in the field, but your patients use at home. Familiarizing yourself with these meds and how they can affect your treatments is invaluable to delivering effective care.

Burn Basics - Too Hot to Handle Aug 19, 2022

In this episode, Chris and Jason discuss how you get burned, what a burn is, the severity of the trauma, how to treat it, and the pathophysiology of burns. Once an EMS provider understands the pathophysiology they will better understand why a particular treatment makes sense.

Fluid Resuscitation Jun 21, 2022

In this episode, Chris and Jason talk about the nuances of fluid resuscitation. Is over-resuscitation a rational fear, or with the right tools and knowledge can providers deliver the right fluid at the right time to better patient outcomes?

Sports Injuries Jun 08, 2022

In this episode special guest star (and Jason's good friend) Chris Perrin joins Jason to discuss Sports Injuries. Chris' experience as an athletic trainer lends a hand as they share knowledge on how to help athletes and accident-prone average joes.

Cold Emergencies Apr 11, 2022

Extremes of temperature can affect the body in many ways. Cold emergencies occur when body systems reach a temperature in which they can no longer tolerate, leading to damage to cells and bodily functions. In this episode of the Back to Basics podcast, Chris and Jason discuss the most common and dangerous cold emergencies and how to treat them. Want to recieve CAPCE credit for listening? Check out www.guardiancme.com

EMS License Test Taking Tips Feb 02, 2022

It's hard enough getting through EMT and Medic School, and then you are challenged with passing the NREMT exam. With a low passing rate, this exam can be a stressor for a lot of newly graduated EMT and Medic students. Luckily, Guardian Test Prep is an expert in taking and passing the NREMT! In this episode, Chris and Jason break down exactly how the exam works, what to expect and tips on how to approach each question so that you pass with no problem! Don't forget that Guardian Test prep offers a full NREMT test prep program with a 94% pass rate! Check it out at www.guardiantestprep.com.

Pediatrics Part 3 - Shock Jan 28, 2022

In this episode of the Back to Basics podcast, Chris and Jason complete their three part series on Pediatric Assessment and Resuscitation. Part 1 covered the systematic approach to assessing a Pediatric patient, and Part 2 reviewed the systematic investigation and treatment of respiratory emergencies. Now, they cover the second major cause of cardiac arrest in children which is Shock. How do we make sure that in every pediatric case we come in contact with, that we don't miss key signs of shock? And how can we systematically assess and treat every child to prevent further decompensation? It's all here on Episode 33! Need CAPCE credits for listening or help with your NREMT exam? Check out our other content at www.guariantestprep.com and www.guardiancme.com.

Pediatrics Part 2 - Respiratory Emergencies Jan 18, 2022

The second part in our Pediatric series covers the assessment strategies needed to recognize respiratory emergencies in children. We cover the systematic evaluation and management of children suffering from respiratory emergencies to better prepare the first responder for handling pediatrics in the field. Want 100% Free CAPCE CME for listening? Check out https://guardiancme.com!

Pediatrics Part 1 - Assessment Jan 11, 2022

EMS first responders will run on far less Pediatric patients compared to Adults during their career. Because of this, it can be difficult to remember that children are not just small adults, but require slightly different assessment and treatment protocols. In this episode, Chris and Jason discuss an easy to use systematic approach to the assessment of the Pediatric patient. Pulling from guidelines such as PEPP, PALS, and PEARS, this simple approach should give you confidence in your ability to identify children who need immediate intervention and those who can wait for further work-up at the hospital. Want to get FREE CAPCE CE for listening to the Back to Basics Podcast? Visit https://guardiancme.com!

Ask us Anything Round 2 Dec 08, 2021

Its been a few months and we want to open up the podcast to you so that you can ask us all of your questions! Whether they are medical, personal, spiritual, or inappropriate, nothing is off limits and Jason will answer it.

Is POCUS Hocus? Nov 09, 2021

Point of Care Ultrasound (POCUS) is an exciting new technology being evaluated in the EMS space for use by Paramedics and EMS professionals on the road. However, does the research support the use of POCUS in the field? What types of diagnostic exams with the ultrasound have proven to be effective in making changes to patient care? And is there any evidence that patient outcomes are better when POCUS is adopted? In this episode of Back to Basics, Chris and Jason explore these questions and more as they attempt to figure out whether POCUS is hocus.

Taking a look at Acute Vision Loss Oct 13, 2021

A patient who experiences sudden vision loss may be suffering from a number of pathologies. How can the first responder in the field assess and diagnose potentially dangerous conditions that cause these types of symptoms? In this episode of Back to Basics, Chris and Jason discuss some of the most acute and potentially life threatening reasons for acute vision loss as well as how to recognize and potentially diagnose in the field. Join them as they take a look at acute vision loss! If you want to see more content make sure to visit www.guardiantestprep.com!

EMS Medical Direction - How are we doing? Oct 05, 2021

EMS Medical Direction is a critical component of every EMS system. The NAEMT, ACEP, and NAAEMSP all help define what high quality EMS Medical Direction should look like. But how are we doing in implementing their guidelines? In this Episode of Back to Basics we discuss the role of the EMS Medical Director, what high quality medical direction should look like, and where we can continue to improve the quality and involvement of this important role in EMS.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease - COPD Sep 28, 2021

Emphysema and Chronic Bronchitis together make up COPD. These are obstructive lung diseases like asthma, but what differentiates Emphysema from Chronic Bronchitis? Do your patients always have both? Find out in this episode of Back to Basics! We also have a big announcement! Soon we will be launching Guardian CME!! Guardian CME is a 100% FREE CAPCE platform so that you can get all your CAPCE credits by engaging our content as well as content from other great educators. And you heard that right....it's FREE! Head over to www.guardiancme.com and drop your email so we can let you know when we launch.

Pirate Emergencies - Protecting your Booty Sep 19, 2021

Happy International Talk Like a Pirate day! In this episode, Chris and Jason honor the holiday by covering a topic not often addressed in primary emergency education...Pirate Emergencies. Would you be able to take care of a pirate in the field? Everything from scurvy to gangrene, listen in to make sure you are prepared in case you ever come across these conditions on your future voyages! And don't miss out on our upcoming launch of Guardian CME - a 100% FREE CAPCE platform where you can listen to your favorite podcasts and content from other great educators all for free. Sign up at www.guardiancme.com

A deeper look at Asthma Sep 14, 2021

You probably see asthma everyday on the job. A common disorder, asthma is something that healthcare professionals typically feel comfortable treating and feel that they have a good understanding of. In this episode, however, Chris and Jason argue that maybe we don't know as much about asthma as we should BECAUSE we see it all of the time. Here, they take a deep dive into the pathophysiology of the condition and explain why its so important to go back to basics even on topics we feel familiar with! Want to earn CME for listening to the podcast? Go to www.guardiancme.com and sign up to hear about our upcoming 100% free CAPCE platform launching in the next few months!

High Altitude Illness: High and Not-So Mighty Sep 01, 2021

We touched base on what can happen at depth under the water in our Dive Emergencies episode, but what happens if we head in the opposite direction? High altitude illness is divided into three presentations: Acute Mountain Sickness (the most common), high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) and High altitude cerebral edema (HACE). All are caused by a lower oxygen environment. How do we differentiate them and what do we do about it? All this and much more in this episode! Come get high with us! www.guardiantestprep.com

Rhabdomyolysis Aug 25, 2021

Rhabdomyolysis, the destruction of muscle tissue, leading to risk of systemic complications, can be caused from a number of traumatic and non-traumatic mechanisms. Rhabdomyolysis is a confusing pathology to understand, and involves a fairly deep knowledge level of how the muscle cell works. In this episode of Back to Basics, the Seitz brothers simplify the understanding of how muscle cells work and how to both suspect and treat rhabdomyolysis in the acute emergency setting!

Organophosphate Poisoning Aug 17, 2021

Would you know how to recognize the signs and symptoms of organophosphate poisoning? Do you know the treatments and how they work? Is it common? Chris and Jason answer these questions and more on Episode 21 of the Back to Basics podcast! Whether you're a student, educator or advanced provider, we've got something just for you. Enjoying the podcast? Check out our other content at www.guardiantestprep.com

Compartment Syndrome Aug 03, 2021

Compartment syndrome is a limb, and potentially life-threatening condition. But would you be able to recognize it in the field? And how do you treat the condition emergently? In Episode 20 of Back to Basics, Chris and Jason answer these questions and more! Studying for the NREMT? Check out our full program at www.guardiantestprep.com

Understanding Priapism.....It's not that hard Jul 27, 2021

We've all heard that if you have an erection lasting more than 4 hours you need to seek medical attention. But how come? A painful erection is called Priapism, and in this episode of Back to Basics, Chris and Jason discuss the pathophysiology behind the condition as well as what first responders and emergency personnel can do to diagnose and treat this emergent situation.

Delivery - Try not to drop it Jul 06, 2021

The idea of delivering a baby can be daunting. Luckily, most of the time all you have to do is not drop it! But when things do go wrong you also need to know how to intervene. In this episode, Chris and Jason review the normal aspects of delivery as well as the simple steps you can take when things don't go exactly as planned. Studying for the NREMT and need more? Check out our course at www.seitzandsirens.com!

Ask us Anything! Jun 24, 2021

In episode 17 of the Back to Basics podcast, Chris and Jason answer all of your pressing questions. By listener request, they answer your medical questions, personal questions and questions you didn't even ask! Have questions for Chris and Jason? Shoot your questions to training@seitzandsirens.com and stay tuned for our next Ask us Anything next quarter!

Seizures Jun 15, 2021

The topic of seizures in emergency care is sometimes oversimplified and many times overcomplicated. In this episode of Back to Basics, Chris and Jason break down the nuances of identifying types of seizures and simplify the emergency approach to treating patients suffering from seizure disorders.

Why did it have to be snakes?! - Envenomations Jun 02, 2021

Why snakes?! In this episode of Back to Basics, Jason tells us all about envenomations and Chris just gets scared and barely contributes because of a deep seated fear of snakes. Join them as they discuss what to do when your patient is bitten, and why bringing the creature with you to the ER is probably not a great idea. (Especially if Chris is on shift)

Thyroid Emergencies May 26, 2021

Understanding the function of the thyroid gland and its hormones is key to being able to treat patients suffering from both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. In this episode of the Back to Basics podcast, we discuss the signs and symptoms of the most common thyroid disorders as well as how to identify emergency thyroid conditions that require immediate intervention.

Pharmacology Basics May 12, 2021

Pharmacology can be an overwhelming topic. With a strong foundation of the basics of pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics however, anyone can simplify this topic and begin to more deeply understand the mechanisms and effects of different medications. In this episode of Back to Basics, Chris and Jason simplify the basics of pharmacology to give the listener a strong base to build from as they begin to learn and study new and different medications as a part of their medical practice. www.seitzandsirens.com

Lightsaber Injuries May 04, 2021

May the 4th be with you! In this episode of the back to basics podcast, Chris and Jason discuss the rare but serious Lighsaber injury. Not typically covered in EMS and Medical education, lightsaber injuries can be life threatening and require a deeper understanding of pathophysiology in order to properly manage. Whether you are someone adept at using the force or not, this episode will definitely help you manage these critical incidents with more confidence. Don't forget to check out our NREMT prep program at www.seitzandsirens.com and listen at the end of the episode for some fun bloopers!

Dialysis Made Simple Apr 27, 2021

Dialysis can be a complicated and overwhelming intervention for patients and medical providers can find this topic to be confusing as well. In this episode, Jason and Chris discuss what dialysis does, how it works, and how to manage patients undergoing dialysis as well as the complications they may suffer from.

The Inflammatory Response - Friend or Foe? Apr 20, 2021

The inflammatory and immune response are complex systems that help protect and heal our body and prevent disease. But then why do we take anti-inflammatories? Should I not be icing my twisted ankle? Can't inflammation be bad? Let's discuss all of this in Episode 10 of the Back to Basics podcast!

Disaster and Mass Casualty Triage Apr 13, 2021

First responders are called to act in some of the most dire of circumstances. We are used to assessing critically ill patients and doing all that we can to save them. But what happens when our resources are overwhelmed? What happens when we can't save everyone? In this episode of the Back to Basics podcast, Chris and Jason discuss Disaster and Mass Casualty triage and how a simple system can be difficult to follow when it seems so different from what we are used to.

Stability - Undefinable or misunderstood Mar 31, 2021

How can we really tell if a patient is stable or not? Do we rely on blood pressure and vital signs? In Episode 8 Jason and Chris discuss how we should define instability and decompensation and how the way we've thought about stability in the past might need to be redefined.

Narcan and Cardiac Arrest Mar 23, 2021

In this episode, the Seitz brothers discuss the new Emergency Cardiovascular Care guidelines for Narcan use in cardiac arrest. They also go over the mechanism of action of Narcan and why it's so important in the field to understand how our drugs and therapies work.

Chest pain and Arrhythmias Mar 16, 2021

Your patient has chest pain and an arrhythmia. Which came first? Did the chest pain cause the arrhythmia or is the arrhythmia causing chest pain? Which one do we treat first? How do we even know? Chris and Jason dive into this issue and discuss how to approach these patients in a systematic way on Episode 6: Chest pain and Arrhythmias.

Amputations Mar 04, 2021

Dealing with amputation injuries can be intimidating and stressful in the field. In this episode, Chris and Jason go over how to handle these types of injuries as well as what to do to protect the amputated limb to give the patient the best chance they can have. No two amputations are the same. Join the Seitz brothers as they take this complicated topic and simplify the process of responding to such emergencies.

Do Not Resuscitate Orders Feb 24, 2021

In this episode, Chris and Jason discuss what a DNR order is, and what it is not. Do we still treat pain and infection in patients with DNR orders? When can we terminate resuscitation? What's the difference between a DNR and Advanced Directives? Chris and Jason answer these questions and more during episode 4 of the Back to Basics podcast!

Diving Emergencies Feb 16, 2021

On this episode Chris and Jason discuss everything you need to know about drowning and dive emergencies. As experienced divers themselves, they share their knowledge and expertise on the pathophysiology of the different dive emergencies that exist and how to handle them in the field.

Pulmonary Embolisms and the Danger of Assumptions Feb 09, 2021

In this episode Chris and Jason go over the ins and outs of pulmonary embolisms. They cover the pathophysiology, presentation and treatments of this life threatening and sometimes fatal disease process. They also go over a case where Jason's initial assumptions might have caused a serious problem under different circumstances. It's all here on Episode 2!

Penetrating Chest Trauma Feb 01, 2021

In this premier episode of the Back to Basics podcast, Chris and Jason discuss a case of penetrating chest trauma and CPR. When do we remove a penetrating object? What do we do when we respond to one? And what about CPR in the midst of this type of trauma? Chris and Jason discuss it all on Episode 1: Penetrating Chest Trauma

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