event program
EMS CE FALL FORUM
December 5, 2024
Resource
8:15 am Zoom Room Open
8:45 am Opening Remarks
9:00 - 10:00 am
Legal Lessons from the Firehouse: Perils, Pitfalls, and Solutions Mark Robens, JD, EMCT-P
10:00 - 10:10 am Break
10:10 - 11:10 am
Traumatic Brain Injuries
Paul Dabrowski, MD
11:10 - 11:20 am Break
11:20 am - 12:20 pm
Non-Treatment/Non-Transport Casey Solem, MD
12:20 am - 1:00 pm Lunch
1:00 - 2:00 pm
Respiratory Emergencies Julie Augenstein, MD
2:00 - 2:15 pm Break
2:15 - 3:15 pm
Patient Assessment........What? Sandy Nygaard, EMCT-P
3:15 - 3:20 pm Break
3:20 - 4:20 pm
4:20 - 4:30 pm
Don't miss this! New Knowledge from the Cardiology Corner Beth Ranney, MD, FACEP
Closing Remarks & Evaluations
• Legal Lessons from the Firehouse: Perils, Pitfalls, and Solutions
Mark Robens, JD, EMCT-P pilot315@gmail.com
This presentation will address the common causes of liability that Fire Department/Districts and EMS Agencies are facing across the nation and in Arizona. This presentation will explore how to mitigate and, hopefully, prevent the onslaught of litigation and liability related to providing medical treatment and related services to the public, including Hot Tips to address these pressing issues.
Participants will learn: the Big Picture-Public Safety and Purpose; why we get sued; the problems with refusals; best practices: medical-legal documentation; HOT Tips; and THE FACT SYSTEM
Mark Robens has been an Attorney since 1981 practicing primarily in the areas of Public Safety, Emergency Services, and Constitutional Law representing Fire Departments/Districts, and Law Enforcement Agencies. He also had a contemporaneous Fire Service career primarily with the Phoenix Fire Department (Captain/Paramedic) and finishing his career with the Daisy Mountain Fire & Medical as Assistant Chief and General Counsel in 2022. He is licensed to practice in the State of Arizona, Federal District Court, Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, and the United States Supreme Court. In June, 2024, he was appointed Superior Court Judge Pro -tem by the Arizona Supreme Court and serves in the Maricopa County Superior Court on a part-time basis.
Mr. Robens also is a Commercially rated Airline Transport Pilot and is an Instructor Pilot for an International Flight Training Company and has flown as an airline, med- evac, and corporate pilot. He also provides public safety legal advice and training nationally in the areas of public safety liability, medical-legal documentation, risk management, personnel challenges (including Supervisory, Leadership, and Disciplinary issues, and Ethical Decision-making in Public Safety). Finally, he is rated “AV PREEMINENT” by his peers and Judges which is the highest possible rating in both legal ability and ethics.
• Traumatic Brain Injuries
Paul Dabrowski, MD
Paul.Dabrowski@bannerhealth.com
This presentation will review best practices for the prehospital care of traumatic brain injuries. It will explore the common mechanisms of injury and prehospital presentations of patients with brain injuries. This presentation will Identify the primary goal of treatment for patients with suspected brain injury. It will also address how hypotension and hypoxia affect outcomes after brain injuries.
Dr. Paul Dabrowski is Clinical Associate Professor of Surgery in the Department of Surgery at University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix and the past Trauma Medical Director for the Banner-University Medical Center Phoenix Level 1 Trauma Center.
Dr. Dabrowski received his medical degree from Saint Louis University and completed his General Surgery residency and Trauma and Critical Care fellowships at Tulane University and Charity Hospital in New Orleans, Louisiana. He is board certified in both General Surgery and Critical Care.
He retired as a Commander in the US Navy in 2011 after numerous US Marine Corps deployments including Fallujah, Iraq in 2007-08 where he served as the Chief of Professional Services. He presently serves as a medical director for PHI Air Evac, as a medical team manager for Arizona Task Force 1 FEMA Urban Search & Rescue, and as medical support for the Phoenix FBI SWAT Team. In his spare time, he works as a trauma surgeon.
• Non-Treatment/Non-Transport
Casey Solem, MD
Casey.Solem@gmail.com
This presentation is a comprehensive guide for EMTs, paramedics, and nurses, addressing the vital aspects of providing effective care to patients with disabilities. We will navigate through inclusive practices, communication strategies, and specialized techniques necessary for understanding and treating diverse patient needs. From adapting protocols to fostering empathy and awareness, this session aims to equip prehospital providers with the knowledge and tools essential for delivering compassionate, tailored care to individuals with disabilities, and special health care needs, in emergency situations. Join us to enhance your skills and contribute to a more inclusive healthcare environment.
Dr. Casey Solem is a Board-Certified Emergency Physician who practices Emergency Medicine in Scottsdale at HonorHealth Osborn, Shea, and Thompson Peak Medical Centers. He also practices Emergency Medicine at the Carl T. Hayden VA Medical Center. Since 2019, he has served as the Medical Director of a variety of regional fire departments. He currently serves as the Medical Director of the Scottsdale Fire Department, Superstition Fire & Medical District, and the Tempe Fire Medical Rescue Department. He has built close relationships with the Paramedics and EMTs with whom he works and is committed to doing his part to support them as they work toward the mission of providing high quality EMS care to their patients.
• Pediatric Respiratory Emergencies
Julie Augenstein, MD jaugenstein@phoenixchildrens.com
Respiratory emergencies are commonly seen in the field and can be one of the most stressful prehospital calls to run This session provides a comprehensive review of the clinical assessment and management priorities for pediatric respiratory emergencies, focusing on conditions such as bronchiolitis and respiratory failure. Participants will gain insights into the unique anatomic and physiologic considerations of the pediatric airway, review differential diagnosis, and explore evidence-based treatment priorities for effectively managing respiratory crises in pediatric patients.
Dr. Julie Augenstein is a board- certified Pediatric Emergency Medicine Physician and the EMS Base Hospital Medical Director at Phoenix Children’s Hospital. She completed her pediatric residency at New York Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical College, followed by a fellowship in Pediatric Emergency Medicine at Seattle Children’s Hospital and The University of Washington. Her clinical focus includes expertise in pre-hospital care and simulation. Appointed by the Governor of Arizona, Dr. Augenstein holds the role of Physician Specializing in Pediatric Medicine on the Medical Direction Commission at the Arizona Department of Health Services and serves on the Trauma and EMS Performance Improvement (TEPI) Committee. Dr. Augenstein is an Assistant Professor of Child Health and Emergency Medicine at the Mayo Clinic School of Medicine and the University of Arizona.
• Patient Assessment........What
PRESENTATION DESCRIPTIONS
Sandra Nygaard, EMCT-P Sandra.nygaard@bannerhealth.com
One of the basic fundamentals of emergency medicine is the ability to quickly and accurately assess the patient. This presentation will cover the aspects of patient assessment, not only adult, but pediatric and maternal patients. it will also include a section on communication and insight on the workings of the Emergency Department as it relates to EMS.
This session focuses on developing practical skills for quick initial assessments and maintaining highquality care. Topics include effective documentation, clear communication strategies, and fostering collaboration through teamwork. Learn how to "find your groove" in providing efficient and cohesive patient care.
Sandra “Sandy” Nygaard has been actively involved with EMS for many years, the majority in the fire service. I also managed the EMS program at Scottsdale Community College for 18 years until they transitioned to Mesa Community College. For the past 11 years Sandy has been the Prehospital Coordinator for Banner ironwood and Banner Goldfield Medical Centers.
Sandy is an active member of Arizona Emergency Medical Systems, Inc. (AEMS), serving as a Board member and Chair of the Planning and Outreach Functional Group, which includes the Education Committee. She also represents AEMS on both the State EMS Education Committee and the Trauma Advisory Board.
• Don't Miss This! New Knowledge from the Cardiology Corner
Beth Ranney, MD ranney.beth@gmail.com
This presentation will cover essential "Don't Miss!" EKGs and highlight current topics in the cardiology corner of emergency medicine. It will focus on reviewing clinically significant EKGs and exploring recent developments in cardiac care within the emergency medicine setting.
Dr. Beth Ranney graduated Arizona State University in 2004 with degrees in molecular biosciences and biotechnology, and anthropology. She worked at the Arizona Burn Center until 2006 and graduated from the University of Arizona College of Medicine in 2010. She completed her residency in emergency medicine at Maricopa Medical Center (now Valleywise Health) in 2013.
Dr. Ranney currently practices at several Banner emergency departments around the valley, mostly at Banner Ironwood & Goldfield as the EMS and Trauma director. She adores her husband Joe, who is a Phoenix firefighter, and her two sons Angus (9) and Ewan (7).
2024 EMS CE Fall Forum Volunteers
Sandy Nygaard, EMCT-P - Host
Marcia Barry, RN
Nicola Crim
Kyle Henson
Kristin Niehoff, RN
Barb Schaffer, RN
Billy Warren
Special Thanks for the Support Of
Arizona Department of Health Services, Bureau of Emergency Medical Services and Trauma System
AEMS Education Committee
AEMS Board of Governors
AEMS Dues Paying Members
Grant Preston, Webmaster
Peggy Baker, AEMS, Executive Director
Thank You Central Arizona
EMS and Trauma Care Provider Agencies and Hospitals
Arizona Emergency Medical Systems, Inc. (AEMS) expresses our appreciation for the care, dedication, and commitment of all the staff and volunteers affiliated with Central EMS and Trauma provider agencies and hospitals. Thank YOU for supporting and enhancing emergency medical and trauma care for all of Central Arizona.
Abrazo Arizona Heart Hospital
Abrazo Arrowhead Campus
Abrazo Buckeye Emergency Center
Abrazo Cave Creek Hospital
Abrazo Central Campus
Abrazo Peoria Emergency Center
Abrazo Scottsdale Campus
Abrazo Surprise Hospital
Abrazo West Campus
Aguila Fire Department
Air Evac Services / Phi
Ak-Chin Fire Department
American Medical Response (AMR)
Angel Medflight
Arizona Ambulance Association
Arizona American College of Emergency Physicians
Arizona City Fire District
Arizona Emergency Medicine Research Center
Arizona Emergency Nurses Association
Arizona Fire & Medical Authority - Buckeye Valley
Arizona Fire & Medical Authority - Sun City West
Arizona Fire & Medical Authority - Sun Lakes
Arizona General Hospital - Laveen
Arizona General Hospital - Mesa
Arizona Hospital & Healthcare Association
Avondale Fire-Rescue
Banner Air
Banner Baywood Medical Center
Banner Boswell Medical Center
Banner Casa Grande Medical Center
Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center
Banner Desert Medical Center
Banner Estrella Medical Center
Banner Gateway Medical Center
Banner Goldfield Medical Center
Banner Ironwood Medical Center
Banner Ocotillo Medical Center
Banner Payson Medical Center
Banner Thunderbird Medical Center
Banner University Medical Center - Phoenix
Buckeye Fire Medical-Rescue
Canyon Fire District
Carl T. Hayden VA Medical Center
Casa Grande Fire Department
Cave Creek Fire Department
Central Arizona Mountain Rescue
Chandler Fire Department
Christopher Kohls Fire Department
Circle City - Morristown Fire District
Cobre Valley - Kearney EMS
Cobre Valley Regional Medical Center
Coolidge Fire Department
Daisy Mountain Fire and Medical
Dignity Health - Arizona General - Ahwatukee ER
Dignity Health - Arizona General - Chandler Germann ER
Dignity Health - Arizona General - Chandler McQueen ER
Dignity Health - Arizona General - Gilbert ER
Dignity Health - Arizona General - Glendale Olive ER
Dignity Health - Arizona General - Glendale Camelback ER
Dignity Health - Arizona General - Goodyear ER
Dignity Health - Arizona General - Mesa Baseline ER
Dignity Health - Arizona General - Mesa Power Road ER
Dignity Health - Arizona General - San Tan Valley ER
Dignity Health - Arizona General - Surprise ER
Dignity Health - Arizona General - Tempe Rural ER
Dignity Health - Arizona General Hospital – Laveen
Dignity Health - Arizona General Hospital - Mesa
Dignity Health - Chandler Regional Medical Center
Dignity Health - Mercy Gilbert Medical Center
Dignity Health - St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center
Dignity Health - St. Joseph’s Westgate Medical Center
East Valley ER and Hospital
El Mirage Fire Department
El Mirage Emergency Room and Medical Center
Eloy Fire District
Exceptional Community Hospital Maricopa
Florence Fire Department
Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation Fire Department
Fountain Hills 24/7 ER and Medical Center
Fountain Hills Fire Department
Gila Bend Fire Department
Gila River EMS
Gila River Fire Department
Gilbert Fire and Rescue
Gisela Valley Fire District
Glendale Fire Department
Thank You Central Arizona
EMS and Trauma Care Provider Agencies and Hospitals
Arizona Emergency Medical Systems, Inc. (AEMS) expresses our appreciation for the care, dedication, and commitment of all the staff and volunteers affiliated with Central EMS and Trauma provider agencies and hospitals. Thank YOU for supporting and enhancing emergency medical and trauma care for all of Central Arizona.
Globe Fire Department
Goodyear Fire Department
Guadalupe Fire Department
Harquahala Valley Fire District
Hellsgate Fire Department
HonorHealth Complete Care - Paradise Valley
HonorHealth Complete Care - Surprise
HonorHealth Deer Valley Medical Center
HonorHealth Florence Medical Center
HonorHealth John C. Lincoln Medical Center
HonorHealth Mesa Emergency Center
HonorHealth Mountain Vista Medical Center
HonorHealth Scottsdale Osborn Medical Center
HonorHealth Scottsdale Shea Medical Center
HonorHealth Scottsdale Thompson Peak Medical Center
HonorHealth Sonoran Crossing Medical Center
HonorHealth Tempe Medical Center
Houston Mesa Fire District
Hu Hu Kam Memorial Hospital
Maricopa Ambulance
Maricopa Fire/Medical Department
Mayo Clinic Hospital
Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office Medical Rescue Posse
Mesa Fire and Medical Department
Native Air Ambulance / LifeNet / Air Methods
Payson Fire Department
Pinal County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue Posse
Peoria Fire-Medical Department
Phoenix Children’s Emergency Department - Avondale
Phoenix Children’s Hospital - Arrowhead Campus
Phoenix Children's Hospital – Phoenix
Phoenix Fire Department
Pinal Rural Fire and Medical District
Pleasant Valley Fire District
PMT Ambulance
Queen Creek Fire & Medical
Queen Valley Fire District
Regional Fire and Rescue Department
Rio Verde Fire District
Salt River Fire Department
San Carlos Apache EMS and Fire Department
San Carlos Apache Healthcare Corporation
Scottsdale Fire Department
Stanfield Fire District
Sun City Fire & Medical Department
Superior Fire Department
Superstition Fire & Medical District
Surprise Fire-Medical Department
Tempe Fire Medical Rescue Department
Thunderbird Fire District
Tolleson Fire Department
Tonto Basin Fire District
Tri-City Fire District
Valleywise Emergency - Maryvale
Valleywise Health Medical Center
Waterwheel Fire & Medical District
Wickenburg Community Hospital
Wickenburg Fire Department
Wilderness Medics
This list is intended to be inclusive of all Central Region EMS and Trauma Care Agencies and Hospitals. If an agency/hospital was omitted from this list, we sincerely regret the oversight. Please notify us so that we may update. Thank you Updated November
We are excited to announce the recent launch of our updated AEMS website. While the overall design remains familiar, we have given it a slight yet meaningful revamp. Moreover, we have added some new features of functionality to enrich the user experience.
Here’s What’s New:
Website App: An AEMS Website App is available to provide quick and easy access to our resources directly from your mobile device. Prepare for a more convenient way to stay connected with AEMS - all it takes is a simple touch on your screen! Click here to download the AEMS App: https://aems.org/about/download-web-app
Other Events Page (Home Page Slider and Under Education) This newly added valuable resource page provides a streamlined approach to sharing events from other organizations. It is composed of a simple overview of the event including title, date, location, and a link for more information or registration.
Upcoming Events Calendar (Home Page): The Calendar has been enhanced for your convenience, presenting a more intuitive interface to better track upcoming events.
Graphic Slider (Home Page) The slider has been upgraded to provide a visually engaging display for an array of events and announcements.
Featured Reads (Home Page) This prime space has been designed to spotlight select events and announcements.
EMS Newsflash (Home Page) A space on the homepage has been reserved to share regular posts linking you to various current news items pertinent to EMS, healthcare, and related issues impacting our community and field.
Archive (Under About AEMS) This page has been created for dual function. It acts as a central repository for past Board Agendas/Minutes, Functional Group Agendas/Minutes, Year in Reviews, and other important documents. This archive collection also serves as a record of the AEMS’ history.
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