Summary

In this episode, Craig Evans discusses the establishment of a whole blood system for EMS in Northern Virginia, emphasizing the importance of community collaboration, blood storage, and the mobilization of volunteers for blood donation. He outlines the steps taken to create a successful blood program, the data supporting its impact, and the need for ongoing partnerships within the healthcare system.

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Summary

In this episode, Craig Evans discusses the critical issue of stress management for first responders. He emphasizes the inadequacy of traditional wellness plans and introduces various techniques for managing both chronic and acute stress. The conversation covers grounding techniques, the importance of self-havening, and trauma tapping as effective methods for mental health maintenance. Craig advocates for daily stress management practices to ensure responders are mentally fit to perform their duties effectively.

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In this episode, Craig Evans addresses the critical yet often avoided topic of EMS suicide. He emphasizes the need for open conversations about suicide within the EMS community, the importance of understanding and assessing suicide risk, and the role of education in preparing EMS professionals to handle these situations compassionately. The discussion highlights the vagueness of current educational standards regarding suicide risk assessment and advocates for a zero suicide stance in EMS practices. Craig encourages EMS professionals to normalize discussions about mental health and suicide, ensuring that they approach these conversations with care and compassion to better support their patients and colleagues.

Takeaways

• We need to face the topic of EMS suicide head-on.
• Most EMS protocols do not address suicide screening.
• Suicidal ideation is just one aspect of suicide risk.
• Every EMS agency should have a zero suicide stance.
• 3.6 million people treated by EMS are not seen at hospitals.
• Over-triaging is safer than under-triaging in suicide risk assessment.
• Compassionate conversations are essential in assessing suicide risk.
• Suicide is not a sign of weakness or quitting.
• Normalizing discussions about mental health is crucial.
• We must take care of each other in the EMS community.

"Suicide is not quitting."

"We've got to get a handle on this."

"It's getting out of control."