Quote Originally Posted by Eric View Post
I guess we can look at the meaning of treat. When in the field and I treat an extremity injury that's gushing blood, using a tourniquet (just one example), I would strongly argue that advanced training isn't required. Clearly, such treatment isn't definitive, but if it gets the patient to the next echelon of care, it's a win in my book. I don't think anyone was suggesting a roadside thoracotomy.
They are suggesting that sticking a needle into a person’s chest is an important skill to learn, believing that a weekend first aid course, for someone with NO medical background, will teach them how to diagnose and treat tension pneumothorax. I am suggesting that penetrating trauma is outside the scope of the medical dilettante. Take it seriously and commit, or don’t do it.