Pulmonary Edema or Pneumonia: The Classic EMS Diagnosis

Steven Kanarian

EMT’s and paramedics respond frequently to calls for difficulty breathing in patients with multiple medical problems. A differential diagnosis of pulmonary edema vs. pneumonia requires an accurate history of present illness, detailed physical exam and an understanding of the physiologic differences of respiratory disease. In this lecture Steven Kanarian will review the elements of a history of present illness physical exam, physiologic problems of pulmonary edema and pneumonia and the key differences in these diseases. This session will improve the field diagnostic abilities of EMTs and paramedics. Both new and experienced providers will have stronger assessment and diagnostic knowledge and skills upon completion of this seminar.