Ep 5: Malfunction Junction – Pathophysiology

Mike and Jonathan (flying the “missing man formation” without Max) dive into the toughest class yet: pathophysiology. They tackle the foundational concepts of how the body’s systems work together, what happens when they fail, and why understanding compensation and perfusion is critical for EMTs.

From heart and lungs working in tandem, to the different types of shock, to how children compensate differently than adults, this episode connects classroom theory to real-world EMS. Jonathan also brings in practical field experience and an EMT instructor’s tip on how students can succeed in class.

Episode Breakdown

09:43 – Medical Term of the Week: Compensation

13:17 – Cardiovascular & respiratory systems in balance

22:53 – Compensation vs. decompensation in patients

33:02 – System-by-system breakdown: cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, renal, skin

37:08 – Shock explained: hypovolemic, cardiogenic, distributive, neurogenic, obstructive

45:53 – Perfusion and the ABCs of airway, breathing, circulation

55:00 – Adult vs. pediatric compensation (gradual decline vs. sudden crash)

1:03:22 – Tools of the Trade: (skipped this week – EMT shears coming in Ep 6)

1:04:25 – Student Tip of the Week: Don’t be afraid to ask questions (feat. EMT Instructor Ashley)

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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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