Ep 14 - I Don’t Try the Drugs, But the Drugs Try Me – Pharmacology

This week, the crew dives into one of the most information-heavy chapters in EMT school — Pharmacology. From oxygen to naloxone, Mike, Max, and Jonathan break down the EMT’s limited but life-saving drug box and the rules that govern every dose.

They explore the difference between indications and contraindications, introduce the Five Rights of medication administration, and talk about the split between EMT-administered and EMT-assisted drugs. Along the way, Jonathan adds perspective from the paramedic’s side — including why communication and documentation matter just as much as the medicine itself.

Episode Breakdown

00:00 – Introduction and book recommendations: Lights & Sirens, Heart of the Storm, and the Ranger Medic Handbook

10:14 – Medical Term of the Week: Indications & Contraindications

29:00 – The Five Rights of Medication Administration

42:40 – EMT-Administered Drugs: Oxygen, Oral Glucose, Aspirin, Naloxone

1:09:50 – Assisted Medications: Epinephrine, Nitro, and Inhalers

1:23:00 – Discussion on Paramedic Scope & Education

1:25:00 – Monitoring, reassessment, and documentation

1:25:30 – Tools of the Trade: Mobile PDR (Physician’s Desk Reference app)

1:33:10 – Student Tip of the Week: Jonathan’s “Triple Check” method for medication safety

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⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.

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