PMA News
Thank you one and all .... looking to the future
Professional Medical Associates would like to take this opportunity to thank all the service directors, hospital managers, assistant instructors and preceptors for their assistance in the past year. As PMA moves into its fourth year, we look forward to continuing to work with all of you. On behalf of our students thank you!PMA Preceptor Appreciation Events
The latest event to be added to the list of Preceptor Appreciation program is the annual golf trip. Depending on the number of participants, PMA will try to offer two dates so that the preceptors are available to go on one of the two trips. As with our previous trip, PMA offers special rates for our preceptors as a token of appreciation. The subsidy is based on the type and number of students the service has assisted with, and the special subsidized rate is available to all of our primary ambulance and hospital preceptors. We are currently planning the trip for Whitefish, Montana from September 14 through to the 16th, 1997.Service directors, preceptors, and students are welcome to join us for what we expect will be an enjoyable weekend, and a well-deserved break for the hard work of our preceptors over the past few months.
For more details, contact the office. We hope you are able to join us and look forward to seeing all of our preceptors, service and hospital practicum partners, and former and current students as well.
PMA On-Line Support News
Well, the long-awaited on-line support and information system has been launched. The Professional Medical Associates' Web Site at www.promedics.org awaits.We are looking for more suggestions on what would be beneficial to our preceptors and practicum partners. We would like to thank those that have taken the time to comment and send suggestions. Watch for more changes over the summer months including additions to the on-going continuing education section. The intent is to provide a reference and continuing education for our students and the preceptors. The first prototype module is ready, though the site is being geared up for a facelift.
You can reach any of the staff by e-mail, even download copies of PMA news on-line, with links to other parts of the site for you to visit. Your feedback is encouraged, and all your comments can be sent to james@promedics.org.
PMA Continues To Answer the Needs of Practitioners
EMT-Paramedic Completer Program
As you are likely aware, the EMT-Paramedic Completer Program recently celebrated its beginnings. With the didactic portion of the program completed, the students have eagerly begun the hospital portion of the program. The students are also looking forward to beginning their ambulance practicums which are tentatively scheduled to begin July 1, 1997. For those services that have contacted us to offer clinical rotations for the students, we would like to thank you. We are trying to have the students exposed to a number of different services, so we would welcome other ALS services to contact us if they are willing to assist the students.The EMT-Paramedic Completer Program forms the final link in the seamless curriculum from EMR through to EMT-P available from Professional Medical Associates.
The goal of the program was to develop a curriculum that did not repeat previously learned information and granted students with credit for employment and previous work experience. The result is a program that allows EMT-A practitioners with 3 to 5 years experience to move to be EMT-P practitioners. Pre-requisites include: member in good standing with APPA as an EMT-A; preference to those working with EMT-Paramedics in an ALS Service; certification in no less than 4 of the 6 12(1) skills; two letters of recommendation; and BCLS within the last year.
The goal of the program was to not repeat information and skills previously learned and used as EMT-A practitioners. Removal of repetitious practicums and courses allows the program to be reduced while including sufficient new information and skills for the graduates to function at the ALS level. The program received equivalency from APPA in September of 1996.
Another important difference in the PMA program, aside from the total length of the program, is the ability of the students to maintain current employment while still upgrading their education. The program is presented in a series of blocks with each session building on the previous session to ensure maximum retention of material. The PMA EMT-P Program is developed around assessment based treatment and is presented in a system format. Following the completion of the theory portion of the program, the students will complete both hospital and ambulance rotations. For the ambulance component the students will be working with a number of different services so that they can benefit from a range of different delivery models. Practicums are scheduled to begin in the first week of July and services interested in assisting us are invited to contact the office at (800) 665-6836.
Program faculty possess a wide range of educational experience including experience as former instructors with other post-secondary institutions in Alberta. The program's strength relies on small instructor to student ratios to maximize practical experience, and ensuring instructors are readily available should questions arise or the students require additional assistance. The students are able to contact the instructors via e-mail to request information, ask questions, and to review important portions of the program.
Continuing Education
In order to serve as a continuing education vehicle, as well as to provide the latest information for our students, preceptors and practicum partners, this issue will mark the first of a series of continuing education vignettes. Each issue will focus upon a different condition, and more information and more detailed explanations can be found in the Continuing Education section of our web site at www.promedics.org. We are always looking for feedback and suggestions, so let us know.You are called to a 76 year old female complaining of shortness of breath. As you approach you notice the patient is extremely short of breath speaking in 3 or 4 word sentences. Skin is cyanotic and cool to touch. Vital signs are pulse 120 and irregular, respirations are 42 and extremely laboured, B/P is 106/58. Upon auscultation of the breath sounds, you hear coarse crackles throughout all fields. The patient also has experienced a productive cough and is coughing up pink/white frothy sputum.
1. Which system is likely the underlying primary problem of the patient?
 | a) cardiovascular |
| b) respiratory |
| c) endocrine |
| d) central nervous system |
| a) respiratory |
| b) circulatory |
| c) endocrine |
| d) musculoskeletal |
| a) start high flow oxygen with a nasal cannula |
| b) initiate IV therapy with a macro-drip admin set |
| c) administer nitroglycerine 3.0 mg SL |
| d) oxygen with a non-rebreather mask |
4. If the patient does not respond positively to your management, and the patient becomes unable to follow commands, which of the following might be in order?
| a) attach patient to automated external defibrillator |
| b) increase the flow of the oxygen with the cannula |
| c) assist ventilations to ensure adequate ventilations |
| d) slow the intravenous to keep vein open |
| a) 12 breaths per minute at 500 ml per ventilation |
| b) 20 breaths per minute at 750 ml per ventilation |
| c) 12 breaths per minute at 1000 ml per ventilation |
| d) 20 breaths per minute at 1000 ml per ventilation |
| a) right sided congestive heart failure |
| b) left sided congestive heart failure |
| c) myocardial infarction |
| d) bronchial asthma |
| a) pulmonary embolism |
| b) bronchial asthma |
| c) pulmonary edema |
| d) cardiogenic shock |
8. Which of the following treatments or diagnostic procedures would be appropriate for this patient following the treatment provided thus far?
| a) intravenous therapy with a macrodrip and large bore catheter |
| b) electrocardiographic monitoring |
| c) Entonox analgesia |
| d) Military Anti-Shock Trousers (MAST) |
9. Identify the rhythm strip of this patient, identified above:
| a) atrial fibrillation with unifocal PACs at a rate of 16 per minute |
| b) sinus tachycardia with multifocal Premature Junctional Contractions at a rate of greater than 12 per minute |
| c) sinus tachycardia with PACs |
| d) atrial fibrillation with controlled ventricular response |
10. The mechanism of action of furosemide is to:
| a) increase tubular secretion in the proximal tubules |
| b) decrease reabsorption in the distal tubules |
| c) increase reabsorption in the proximal tubules |
| d) decrease tubular secretion in the distal tubules |
| a) nasotracheal intubation |
| b) synchronize cardioversion |
| c) endotracheal intubation |
| d) administration of adenosine 6 mg rapid IV bolus |
| e) surgical crichothyroidotomy |
1. nitroglycerine
2. ventolin
3. morphine
4. furosemide
5. glucose
6. atropine
| a) 1, 3, 6 |
| b) 2, 4, 5 |
| c) 1, 3, 4 |
| d) 3, 5, 6 |
| e) 1, 4, 5 |
| 1. a | 2. a | 3. d | 4. c |
| 5. c | 6. b | 7. c | 8. b |
| 9. d | 10. b | 11. c | 12. c |
EMT-A Update
One of the latest EMT-A Programs started in St. Albert with students attending from Leduc, Daysland, Ponoka, Calgary, Olds, St. Albert, Holden, Sherwood Park, Okotoks, and Edmonton.To further our commitment to increase the access to the EMT-A program for rural areas, PMA was pleased to begin offering a program for the southeast portion of the province in Brooks. The next programs are currently being finalized with potential sites of High River and Medicine Hat for the Fall. Courses are being planned with the assistance of the local ambulance services, allowing for the utilization of local instructors with the constant assistance from the PMA staff.
EMT-A Selection Process
The dates have been selected for the next selection process for our Southern EMT-A programs. Potential sites include High River, Medicine Hat and/or Calgary. Applications must contain all pre-requisite documentation and be accompanied by the $60.00 assessment fee. More information and application packages can be obtained from the PMA office at (403) 460-8410.Based on the overwhelming demand for our programs, two days have been set aside for selection. Selections will be held June 24 and 25, 1997 in Calgary, AB.
EMT-A Selection Process
Appreciation Program Report
The first annual PMA preceptor and partner appreciation ski trip was held April 3, 4, 5, 1997. The weekend was held in Whitefish, Montana, and a number of our current preceptors and service directors were able to join us in the event. The ski trip offered another method for the staff of PMA to show our appreciation for the many hours of dedication and commitment our preceptors put in. On behalf of our students, thank you and we look forward to your continuing support and joining us in future events.Plans are currently underway for the First Annual PMA Open tentatively to be held in the second week of September. While the location has yet to be decided, we are looking at either Whitefish, Montana or Fairmount Hot Springs or Radium in British Columbia.
The plan is to have a two or three day excursion, a couple of rounds of golf as well as accommodations and bus transfers to and from the site. As more details are confirmed, the information will be available in future editions of PMA News or on our web site at www.promedics.org. Preceptor Appreciation Courses
EMD courses
As an extension to our preceptor appreciation program, PMA is also offering price reductions for the Emergency Medical Dispatch program for our preceptors. The courses are also open to our former students. We are tentatively looking at programs in July and August 1997. The regular cost of the program is $250.00 USD if payment received more than 14 days prior, or $295.00 USD if payment received less than 14 days. Program subsidy will be based on the number of students assisted for the primary ambulance and hospital preceptors. For more information, and exact price quotations, please contact the office at your convenience.Update on EMT-Ambulance Completer (Bridging) Program
Grande Cache
The latest EMT-A Completer Program theory component has recently completed using Grande Cache as a center, providing education to practitioners in the communities to move from EMR to the EMT-A level with the additional health services, the Section 12(1) skills. The students are currently completing their practicums. The support we have received from the clinical sites has been extremely positive, and so have the experiences the students have been reporting to us.Brooks
To continue the commitment to rural practitioners, PMA is proud to announce the commencement of the EMT-A Completer program in Brooks, Alberta. The program is being presented with the support of the Brooks and District Ambulance Service. The ambulance service is hosting the program with students travelling from surrounding communities to move from the EMR level to the EMT-A level with Section 12(1) skills. The Brooks program serves as an excellent example of the partnership possibilities that the PMA programs and delivery methods are able to offer.EMT-A Program Feedback
PMA continues to send our feedback surveys to our preceptors and Service Directors. The surveys form a portion of the Quality Improvement Program of Professional Medical Associates to ensure our graduates meet the needs of the ambulance profession, and that they are prepared for their hospital and ambulance rotations.The results are extremely positive, and we would like to thank the preceptors for taking the time to assist us in improving our program even further. With the assistance of our preceptors and our Quality Improvement Program, PMA can continue to work to improve upon the success of our graduates on the Provincial Registration Examinations.
SURVEY RESPONSES
The following is a sample of some of the responses we have received on our program surveys: | "The student was well prepared and eager to get on with their hospital practicum." |
| "Students arrive well prepared to run a call even with 12-1's! Great!" |
| "Generally I feel PMA students come to practicum sites more prepared didactically. Students also present as more confident and competent with their skills." |
| "In comparison with other EMT-A programs, there were no complaints about the lack of skill in integrating 12-1 skills into their work." |
| "I have precepted probably 15 students and I would have to say your student was the most prepared." |
| "Good program with knowledgeable, competent graduates." |
EMT-Ambulance Program Update
Final arrangements are soon to be complete for our next EMT-A programs. The programs are scheduled to start in September 1997 and registrations are currently being accepted for the EMT-A selection process. The purpose of the selection process is to select students with the highest chance of successful completion and demonstrated ability as employed EMR practitioners. The objective of the EMT-A Bridging program from Professional Medical Associates has always been to provide currently employed EMRs the opportunity to be employed EMT-A practitioners. As changes in health care continue, the need for rural services to provide 12(1) skills continues to increase. This need was addressed by PMA, and we look forward to working with our rural service partners as we enter into the new year. We are also in discussions with services to host another EMT-A Completer Program in Southern Alberta. Final site selection is based on the number of applicants from areas sponsoring the program to maximize employability, likely High River in August.The selection process involves completion of a multiple choice examination, completion of a trauma scenario, and a personal interview for each applicant. Applicants must also supply a copy of their APPA EMR registration card, BCLS - Level C within the previous 6 months, and resume detailing work and educational experience. Other supporting documentation includes letters from EMS related employers and other registered practitioners.
To date, the selection process has been extremely successful. In fact over 95% of our students complete the program. The next EMT-A selection process for our Fall southern Alberta programs will be held June, 1997. Applications must be returned to the office no later than June 18, 1997. Two days are required for testing as there continues to be an overwhelming response throughout the province to our programs from students, preceptors and services. Selection appointments will be arranged on a first-come, first-served basis for June 24/25, 1997.
EMR and EMT Refresher Programs
The EMR and EMT-A refresher programs have been well received by students and service directors alike. The programs review both theoretical and practical information provided in initial programs. The focus on practical application of information, with the use of home study modules, reduces the time required to review information in practical sessions. The programs can be offered either on site or from our offices, depending on the needs of our clients. The next refresher program is running in St. Albert starting in October 1997. Contact the office for specific information, or call the 24 hour support line at (800) 571-5355.
Medic First Aid and CPR courses
PMA continues to expand the range of programs available to our students and assisting organizations. With the assistance of Grant MacEwan Community College, Professional Medical Associates has moved into First Aid and CPR training. The Medic First Aid Family of programs was selected based on the instructional methods used, concentration on practical application and creation of a positive environment that makes learning fun. The philosophy parallels what PMA strives for in our ambulance profession programs.On-site Medic First Aid programs are becoming increasingly popular in rural Alberta. Flexible scheduling is one of the cornerstones of PMA and continues with the MFA programs.
Courses can be arranged to suit the needs of our clients, and clients are invited to contact the office. More information is available in facsimile format from the 24 hour support line at (800) 571-5355.
Practicum Partnership Program
With our EMT-A Completer students recently completing their practicums and the EMT-P Completer students shortly starting their clinical rotations, the practicum PMA partnership program continues to gain support and popularity among the service directors and hospital site managers of the province. The rationale was always simple, give back to the community and organizations that continue to support our students.We continue discussions with the many other services that have expressed interest in working together on practicum partnerships. More details about our newest partners will be available in future editions of PMA News. Our appreciation goes out to our preceptors and managers that make our program a success. We look forward to continuing our mutually beneficial partnerships.
PMA will be subsidizing upcoming courses as a token of appreciation for the work our preceptors have done throughout the year. We are also looking at holding an ACLS and/or BTLS (Advanced) course later in the fall for our EMT-P or RN preceptors and services. For more information, watch future newsletters or call the office.
Preceptor Awards
The draw date for the latest award was to be June 30, 1997, though the draw was held a little early so that we could have the winners listed in this newsletter. All primary ambulance and hospital preceptors that have or will assist our students up to June 30, 1997 were included in the draw. The winners receive a free weekend on our next preceptor appreciation golf trip in September 1997. Keep your eyes out for future editions of PMA news or call the 24 hour support line for more information. You can also receive information on our preceptor program on-line at www.promedics.org.On behalf of our students, please join us in congratulating the latest winners of the preceptor appreciation program. Our congratulations to the winner of the ambulance preceptors appreciation award goes to Kenton Galloway of Crown EMS (Leduc) and Cathy Shock of the Stony Plain Hospital.
Our preceptors add an extremely valuable perspective for the students and allow them to gain their confidence. We are extremely proud of our preceptor appreciation programs and our preceptor partnership programs. The PMA commitment to our preceptors is to ensure the preceptors have all required support, where and when they need it. PMA continues to improve on our appreciation and support program that benefits all three parties, the service, the preceptors, and most importantly, our students. We are currently working on a number of new initiatives for the upcoming year. For more information watch future newsletters of visit our web site at www.promedics.org 24 hours a day. As a reminder, you can reach the on-call practicum facilitator 24 hours a day through 1(800) 571-5355.
PMA Preceptor Appreciation Events
The latest event to be added to the list of Preceptor Appreciation program is the annual golf trip. Depending on the number of participants, PMA will try to offer two dates so that the preceptors are available to go on one of the two trips. As with our previous trip, PMA offers special rates for our preceptors as a token of appreciation. The subsidy is based on the type and number of students the service has assisted with, and the special subsidized rate is available to all of our primary ambulance and hospital preceptors. We are currently planning the trip for either Whitefish, Montana or possibly Fernie or Fairmount, BC.Service directors, preceptors, and students are welcome to join us for what we expect will be an enjoyable weekend, and a well-deserved break for the hard work of our preceptors over the past few months.
For more details, contact the office. As dates and times are finalized they will be available in the next issue of the newsletter. The trip is currently being planned for the second week in September 1997. We hope you are able to join us and look forward to seeing all of our preceptors, service and hospital practicum partners, and former and current students as well.