Endocrine Emergencies for EMTs: Recognizing and Responding to Hidden Dangers
Date/Time:	Thu 5/22/2025 at 8:00 PM
Location:	Saint Clare's Dover Hospital - Training Center
Class Price:	$0.00

Endocrine disorders can present with subtle signs but carry life-threatening consequences if not recognized and treated promptly. This course is designed to give EMTs the tools and understanding necessary to identify and manage common endocrine emergencies in the prehospital setting — with a focus on rapid assessment, appropriate interventions, and effective communication with advanced care providers.

Participants will explore the pathophysiology, signs, and EMS-specific considerations for conditions such as diabetic emergencies, thyroid storm, adrenal crisis, and electrolyte imbalances. Emphasis is placed on patient assessment, glucose management, and when to suspect less obvious endocrine-related causes of altered mental status or shock.

Key Topics Include:

• Hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)
• Altered mental status and the endocrine connection
• Thyroid and adrenal gland emergencies: what EMTs need to know
• The role of vital signs and physical clues in early recognition
• BLS interventions and appropriate use of glucometers
• Special populations: pediatric and geriatric endocrine concerns
• Effective handoff and documentation for endocrine-related calls

This course is ideal for EMTs who want to improve their clinical reasoning and readiness for calls that may not be immediately recognizable as endocrine-related but require quick, informed action.