FIRST IN LAST OUT MEDICAL RESPONSE CERTIFICATIONS 3322 COORS BLVD NW SUITE 4 ALBUQUERQUE, NM 87120 GERARDO REYES (505) 358-1197
Hybrid / Blended PHTLS: Some providers split the didactic content into an online module, followed by in-person sessions for skills and scenarios (typically ~8 hours in person + ~8 hours online). Trauma & Critical Care Education+2NAEMT+2
PHTLS-FR (First Responders): A version tailored for first responders (EMR, firefighters, law enforcement) that is 8 hours and focuses on essential trauma interventions relevant to their scope. NAEMT
Combined / Basic + Advanced tracks: Some courses combine basic trauma principles with advanced modules in one provider course.
It is intended for prehospital providers: EMTs, paramedics, nurses, physician assistants, physicians, and other health professionals who may deal with trauma in the field. RWJBarnabas Health+3Cascade Training Solutions+3NAEMT+3
There’s generally no prerequisite besides completing any required pre-course assessments or reading materials. Trauma & Critical Care Education+2Cascade Training Solutions+2
The PHTLS initial course addresses a broad spectrum of trauma care. Common topics include:
| Module / Domain | Key Content Areas |
|---|---|
| Mechanism & Kinematics | Understanding how forces cause injury, how to predict internal damage from external forces |
| Physiology / Pathophysiology | Shock, hemorrhage, vital signs, compensatory mechanisms |
| Scene Assessment & Safety | Scene size-up, mechanism of injury, extrication, triage |
| Patient Assessment | Primary and secondary surveys (e.g. head, spine, thorax, abdomen, extremities) |
| Airway / Breathing / Ventilation | Techniques for airway management, ventilation, oxygenation |
| Circulation & Hemorrhage Control | Fluid resuscitation, external bleeding control, shock management |
| Trauma to Specific Regions | Head, spine, thorax, abdomen, musculoskeletal injuries, pelvic trauma |
| Special Populations | Pediatric trauma, geriatric trauma, burns, environmental injuries |
| Transport / Triage / Destination Decisions | When and where to transport, balancing “on-scene time” vs rapid transport |
| Scenario / Simulation Practice | Case presentations, team simulations, hands-on stations to integrate learning |
Participants practice skills in stations, work through simulated scenarios, and are tested on both written (knowledge) and practical (skills / scenario) performance. Cascade Training Solutions+2Trauma & Critical Care Education+2
After successful completion, participants receive a PHTLS Provider certificate / wallet card, valid for 4 years. NAEMT+2Trauma & Critical Care Education+2
The certificate typically carries 16 hours of continuing education credit (CEU / EMS CE). Ca
National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians NAEMT
