Revised 08/2018

EMS 203 - Advanced Patient Care (2 CR.)

Course Description

Focuses on the comprehensive assessment and management of patients in out-of-hospital and inter-facility scenarios. Content is centered on problem-solving through integration of didactic, psychomotor and affective curricula. Lecture 2 hours. Total 2 hours per week.

General Course Purpose

The purpose of this course is to develop the student's knowledge, understanding, analysis and application of comprehensive patient care.

Course Prerequisites/Corequisites

Prerequisite: Current Virginia EMT and CPR certification as approved by the Virginia Office of EMS. Corequisite: EMS 204.

Course Objectives

Upon completing the course, the student will be able to:

  • Integrate clinical reasoning into patient care.
  • Discuss the impact of cultural issues in healthcare.
  • Recommend a treatment plan based on patient presentation.
  • Discuss the components of a comprehensive patient assessment.
  • Explain the steps related to advanced care procedures.

Major Topics to Be Included

  • Clinical reasoning
    • Distinguish the body system(s) that could contribute to patient's complaint
    • Concluding questions
    • Wrapping up the history
    • Assuring that all the patients’ issues have been addressed
  • Cultural Competence
    • Definition of culture
    • Developing cultural sensitivity
    • Cultural Orientations
    • Religious beliefs that impact patient care
    • Cultural characteristics related to health care
  • Advanced Patient Care
    • Determine field diagnosis based on presenting manifestations
    • Techniques of the physical examination
    • Recommend a treatment plan for a variety of patient complaints
    • Integration of therapeutic communication, history taking techniques, patient presentation and assessment findings
  • Advanced Care Procedures
    • Surgical airway
    • Ventilator management
    • Radiological diagnostics
    • Laboratory values related to patient care