Prehospital Trauma Life Support Course

The Prehospital Trauma Life Support (PHTLS) course is a two-day program designed to teach emergency medical and health professionals the most current techniques and protocols on the prevention, evaluation and treatment of trauma. It is recognized worldwide as the leading continuing education program for prehospital care. This comprehensive course provides educational material and skills to ensure a comprehensive approach to trauma patients. The PHTLS program emphasizes critical thinking as the foundation for providing quality care. Its mission is to promote excellence in the practice of prehospital trauma treatment, and has been proven to reduce mortality in trauma victims. The PHTLS is divided into seven units that cover all aspects of patient management from introduction to trauma through assessment and transportation. Each unit has an examination and requires completion of written and practical portions as well as attendance in at least one live demonstration classroom session. Participants also receive instruction in scene safety, patient assessment and management, spinal immobilization, airway management, shock management and special operations considerations. Upon successful completion of the course, students become certified in PHTLS and receive a course completion certificate. This certificate serves as a universal credential for EMS personnel and is the only prehospital trauma continuing education program that is accredited by the Committee on Accreditation of Educational Programs for the EMS Profession (CoAEMSP) and recognized by the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT). The PHTLS program is sponsored by the National Association of EMS Physicians (NAEMSP) and the American College of Surgeons' Committee on Trauma (ACSCOT) with oversight by the US Department of Defense and Federal Emergency Management Agency. It is offered by accredited Prehospital Trauma Life Support Center (PTLSC) locations throughout the country. The Prehospital Trauma Life Support course is a must for all prehospital health care providers, providing them with the skills and knowledge necessary to recognize and treat life-threatening injuries. It is designed to promote critical thinking skills and improve response to traumatic events, ultimately resulting in improved patient outcomes.