BEULAH FIRE PROTECTION AND AMBULANCE DISTRICT

Course Introduction

The Prehospital Trauma Life Support (PHTLS) course is designed to provide emergency medical personnel with the knowledge and skills necessary to assess and manage traumatic injuries in prehospital settings. This internationally recognized course follows evidence-based guidelines to improve patient outcomes and enhance trauma care efficiency.

Course Objectives

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

• Conduct rapid and effective trauma assessments

• Implement life-saving interventions based on trauma severity

• Prioritize patient care using the principles of the Golden Hour

• Manage airway, breathing, and circulation in trauma patients

• Recognize and treat shock, hemorrhage, and traumatic injuries

• Work efficiently within a team to provide optimal trauma care

Key Topics Covered

1. Principles of Trauma Care

   • The importance of early intervention and rapid transport

   • The roles and responsibilities of prehospital providers

2. Trauma Patient Assessment

   • Scene safety and initial patient assessment

   • Primary and secondary surveys in trauma care

3. Airway and Breathing Management

   • Airway obstruction recognition and intervention

   • Oxygenation, ventilation, and advanced airway techniques

4. Shock and Hemorrhage Control

   • Identification and management of different types of shock

   • Hemorrhage control techniques, including tourniquets and wound packing

5. Head, Spine, and Musculoskeletal Trauma

   • Recognition and treatment of traumatic brain injuries (TBI)

   • Spinal immobilization and fracture management

6. Thoracic and Abdominal Trauma

   • Managing chest injuries such as pneumothorax and flail chest

   • Recognition of internal bleeding and organ injuries

7. Special Considerations in Trauma Care

   • Pediatric, geriatric, and pregnant trauma patients

   • Burns, environmental injuries, and multi-system trauma

Course Format

This course incorporates interactive lectures, hands-on skill stations, and scenario-based training exercises. Participants will practice trauma assessment and treatment techniques using simulated patient cases.

Certification

Upon successful completion, participants will receive a PHTLS certification, which is valid for four years. This certification is recognized by emergency medical services (EMS) agencies and healthcare institutions worldwide.

Conclusion

The PHTLS course equips prehospital providers with the critical skills needed to improve trauma patient survival and outcomes. By applying evidence-based trauma care principles, participants can make a significant difference in emergency situations.