Sizzling Summer Classes: ALS Trauma Care

We’re taking a peek inside the classroom to offer students a sampling of what they might experience. This week we visited a trauma care class at the Regional Health Professions Center on Tidewater Community College’s Virginia Beach Campus to see learning in progress.
Inside the classroom:
Students in Advanced Life Support (ALS) – Trauma Care (EMS 157) learn the mechanics of formulating patient assessments based on findings and the steps of implementing treatment plans for trauma patients. The course focuses on Prehospital Trauma Life Support (PHTLS), which promotes critical thinking as the foundation for providing quality care.
Why this class sizzles:
Our paramedics-in-training practice how to effectively manage high-stress situations through simulation training and gain the skills to go the extra mile to ensure patient comfort and safety. “There are a lot of variables that go into establishing a relationship with trauma patients as opposed to medical patients, which makes the class challenging and interesting,” said Carlos Cajares, emergency medical services (EMS) professor.

Tip:
Before enrolling in classes, consider participating in your city’s EMS ride-along program or even take a CPR class at TCC to get a feel for the field.

Who needs it:
EMS 157 is required for TCC’s intermediate and paramedic career studies certificate programs. Credits earned in these programs can be applied to TCC’s Associate of Applied Science in Emergency Medical Services.
Student voices:
“My favorite thing about this class is the open group discussions based on real calls. All the instructors here have field experience, which is very valuable.” – Lauren Collins, emergency medical technician – basic at LifeCare Medical Transports

“The class schedule is very conducive to my two jobs. Being able to complete it in full eight-hour days is very convenient.” – Mike Carroll, firefighter at Norfolk Fire-Rescue

“The class as a whole is close-knit, and we all work well together. I found that our group has the same agenda, so we go in together and get it done.” – Jen Keeney, Navy veteran
About the professor:
Cajares brings over 20 years of health-care experience to the classroom. He served as a hospital corpsman in the Navy, firefighter-paramedic for Norfolk Fire-Rescue and paramedic for the City of Portsmouth. He earned his master’s in public administration from Old Dominion University and his bachelor’s in emergency medical services management from Hampton University. Cajares has taught EMS classes at TCC since 2005.