EMS 4 EMS

As children, we learned to recall important information through various forms. We learned the alphabet by singing "The Alphabet Song." We learned the number of days in a month reciting "thirty days hath September."

     The medical community has also traditionally used "mental shorthand" to assist in accurately and quickly recalling information. Perhaps because of the lengthy and descriptive Latin words, or due to the rapidly growing number of drug names, treatment protocols, drug dosages, new illnesses or pieces of diagnostic equipment, we have become dependent on using mnemonics (memory joggers) to quickly and accurately treat patients and communicate medical information. Medical, allied health, EMS programs (first responder, EMT and paramedic) and alphabet programs (i.e., ACLS, AMLS, PHTLS and PALS) all benefit from memory joggers.

     When I went to EMT and paramedic school, there were a few mnemonics to help us remember principles and practice techniques. I liked the ones that were short, sweet and to the point. If a memory jogger wasn't readily available, I made one up. When I started teaching, I added to the list, and I am still adding!

     My students call me the "mnemonic madam"--when they ask for a memory jogger on a certain subject, I always have one. I got the idea for my book, Easy Memory System for Emergency Medical Services (hence EMS 4 EMS) when my past students asked me to gather my mnemonics together and make copies for them. I was amazed at how many I had and on so many subjects! I figured if my students asked for these memory joggers, maybe others would like a copy. I do not take credit for all the mnemonics that appear in EMS 4 EMS. Many have been around for years. I just compiled them into an easy reference source. This book is the result of years of work creating, collecting and compiling many of the memory joggers that will, and probably already do, make you more productive in your activities as healthcare providers.

     Easy Memory System for Emergency Medical Services is available for $16.95 + shipping and tax from www.emergencybookstore.com, 800/367-0382. Janet Schulte is currently training center coordinator at St. Charles Ambulance District in St. Peters, MO.