CodeHeads

The conversation continues on CodeHeads with leading expert Dr. James Tew as we take a closer look at the risks of THC use—including the complexities surrounding medical marijuana and cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS). In this episode, we explore how THC can affect the body in unexpected and potentially serious ways, why “medical” does not always mean risk-free, and how repeated cannabis use...

What happens when “harmless” THC use takes a dangerous turn? In this eye-opening episode of CodeHeads, we sit down with leading expert Dr. James Tew to explore the serious, and often overlooked, risks associated with THC overdose. From altered brain function and extreme physiological reactions to potentially life-threatening emergencies, we uncover what the average user may not know about cannabis...

In this quick Nugget Node, we dive in a little deeper than our response reel on socials to tackle a viral "airway plunger" device being marketed for choking emergencies. As cardiac resuscitation experts, we are breaking down why this product is not just a scam, it is a genuine risk to child safety. Learn the facts, understand the dangers of unproven airway devices, and remember that CPR...

In Part 1 of our multi-part series with Domenic Corey, a Northeastern University professor, paramedic, and innovator in education and simulation, we explore how experiential learning, simulation, virtual reality, and adaptive teaching can move healthcare education beyond traditional lectures. We discuss building clinical intuition, individualizing training, balancing standardization with customiza...

This week on CodeHeads, we’re turning the mic over to you! Our listeners and viewers have submitted their burning questions (clinical, personal, or utterly bizarre) and we take them all, no filter. In this episode we answer the question “What’s the wildest patient presentation you haveencountered?” Tune in for a discussion about a couple of our more intense patient presentations that have never le...

Managing blood sugar with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) getsunpredictable fast when alcohol is involved. In this episode of Codeheads, we break down how alcohol compromises the liver's ability to prevent severe low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), why delayed drops happen hours later, and how tospot the difference between alcohol intoxication and a low blood sugar. The CodeHeads also share some practical safet...

This episode tackles the frustrating reality of community CPR: why it's still not mandated in most schools despite proven benefits. We break down federal vs. state laws, disparities in training access, and our frustrations as clinicians watching policy lag behind evidence. #CPR #CardiacArrest #Resuscitation #CommunityCPR #CPRinSchools #BystanderCPR #PublicHealth #HealthEquity #Cardiology #Emergenc...

Join us on CodeHeads as we sit down with David Hiltz, a passionate sudden cardiac arrest advocate and one of resuscitation medicine's most knowledgeablehistorians. With four decades of perspective, David takes us on a fascinating journey through the evolution of cardiac resuscitation from the early days of CPR protocols to today's cutting-edge technologies and community-basedinterventions. Whether...

In this episode of Codeheads, we unravel the complexities behind the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA). Designed to protect patients seeking emergent medical care, EMTALA is often misunderstood by bothlaypeople and healthcare providers. We break down the rights of patients, obligations of hospitals, EMS protocols, and common misconceptions. Whether you're a clinician or just s...

This week on CodeHeads, we’returning the mic over to you! Our listeners and viewers have submitted their burning questions (clinical, personal, or utterly bizarre) and we take them all, no filter. In this episode we answer the question “What’s a skill or piece of knowledge that every new nurse or paramedic should master early when it comes to codes?” Tune in for a light, fun, discussion, and let u...

In the second part of our compelling series, "SweetClouds, Sour Truths," we dive deeper into the alarming health implications of vaping. We focus on the direct damage vaping inflicts on lung health andexplores how its easy accessibility has led to a surge in its cultural acceptance, especially among youth. The contrast between public perception and the harshrealities of vaping, are alarm...

In this eye-opening episode of CodeHeads, we explore the alarming clinical impacts of vaping on your heart and lungs. Discover why vaping may pose greater health risks than traditional smoking, affecting not just your cardiovascular system but your overall well-being. We discuss the latestresearch on vaping's effects, including acute heart risk, lung injuries, and long-term health consequences...

This week on CodeHeads, we’re turning the mic over toyou! Our listeners and viewers have submitted their burning questions (clinical, personal, or utterly bizarre) and we take them all, no filter. In this episode we answer the question “What’s a skill or piece of knowledge that every new nurse or paramedic should master early when it comes to codes?” Tunein for a light, fun, discussion, and let us...

In this episode of CodeHeads, we take a deeper dive into the transformative practices of breathwork and focus on the integration of psilocybin-guided methods. Joinus as we explore how intentional breathing techniques can enhance the effects of psilocybin, promoting profound journeys of self-discovery and healing. Our expert guest shares her insights on the synergy between breathwork andpsychedelic...

In this episode of Codeheads, we explore the borderland between the previously discussed clinical near‑death experiences and non‑clinical out‑of‑body journeys. Our guest, Alyssa, a Certified Life Coach, shares her guided‑meditation and breathwork practice and a personal mushroom‑assisted out‑of‑body experience. We compare her account topatient reports from sudden cardiac arrest and review the scie...

Your heart beats with rhythm, but the tiny changes between each beat may tell the bigger story. In this episode, we explore Heart Rate Variability (HRV): what it is, why it matters, and how it reflects stress, recovery, resilience, sleep, performance, and overall health. We break down the science in a practical, relatable way and discuss how HRV can help you better understand your nervous system,...

Exploring Near-Death Experiences (NDEs): This week we discuss various patient experiences, and give overviews of some recent studies investigating the phenomenon of NDEs in survivors of cardiac arrest. We discuss potential implications of these experiences for resuscitation practice, pontificate whether teams can integrate NDE awareness into patient-centered care. A true intersection of critical c...

The conversation continues with registered dietitian Lori DeCosta back for more. In Part 2, we get into the day-to-day reality of life on a GLP-1: the nausea, vomiting, and GI side effects that cause many people to quit even when the drug is working. We also tackle one of the biggest questions surrounding these medications: what happens when you stop? From rapid weight regain to a surprising rever...

GLP-1 medications are everywhere right now, praised for dramatic weight loss and better blood sugar control, but also raising important questions about side effects, long-term safety, and access. In this episode, we break down how these drugs actually work, who benefits most, common adverse effects, and practical issues patients and clinicians should consider. Whether you’re curious about the scie...

n this episode of CodeHeads' listener Q&A segment "As a CodeHead," we answer a listener question about the biggest myths around cardiac arrest and resuscitation — from "only paramedics can save a life" to "CPR always causes harm" and the idea that a code blue means the patient is already gone. We unpack why these myths persist, review evidence-based perspectives, discuss team roles during a co...

This week on Codeheads, we’re breaking CPR out of the classroom and throwing it into the real world. Becauselet’s be honest, codes don’t happen on clean floors and tables with perfect lighting and neatly placed equipment. We dive into what it actually means to train for reality: adapting CPR education to the environments people work in, whether that’s the back of an ambulance, a crowded ER, or a c...

This week on  CodeHeads , we’re turning the mic over to you! Our listeners and viewers have submitted their burning questions (clinical, personal, or utterly bizarre) and we take them all, no filter. Tune in for a light, fun, quick-clip episode, where your curiosity drives the conversation! #CodeBlue #ACLS #MedicalPodcast #EMSPodcast #NursingPodcast #ResuscitationScience #FOAMed #MedTwitter #Nurse...

The brutality and frantic pace required to save a life can shock and traumatize onlookers. As E.T., the Extra-Terrestrial, remains in cardiac arrest, his earth family witnesses this code alone. No staff support or guidance, no pastoral care, not a single social worker in sight. Fresh off our talk with Dr. Katie Hurley, we break down this agonizing moment. #FamilyPresence #HealthcareCommunication #...

Could you stay in the room as emergency responders fight to save a loved one’s life…or would you step out? In this episode of Codeheads , we break down the intense, high-stakes moment of a cardiac arrest and its emotional toll on families and responders. Mental health expert  Dr. Katie Hurley  joins us to share her perspective on this delicate situation. #FamilyPresence #PatientCare #MedicalEthics...

Outside of healthcare, many people aren’t sure how a heart attack differs from a cardiac arrest—and the confusion is more common than you might think. While these terms are often used interchangeably, the difference between them is significant, and misunderstanding it can delay the right response when seconds truly matter. In this latest "quick hit" episode of Codeheads, we break down wh...