Youth Pathfinders
This year’s Youth Pathfinders will focus on field delivery and care for the neonate.
Emergency Childbirth Outside of a Hospital Setting presented by Nicki Darrington
Description
This lecture introduces students to the basic understanding of what emergency childbirth might look like when it happens outside of a hospital. It focuses on how EMS professionals remain calm, think clearly, and follow safe and respectful procedures during an unexpected birth. Students will learn about teamwork, communication, and the importance of quick thinking and compassion when helping both mother and baby in high-stress situations—without delving into graphic medical details. This lecture will be age-appropriate.
Objectives
- Recognize the signs that a woman may be in active labor and understand when emergency help is needed.
- Explain the general role of EMS responders during out-of-hospital childbirth, focusing on safety, calmness, and clear communication.
- Identify the basic supplies and equipment used to assist in a safe childbirth in the field.
- Understand the importance of empathy, privacy, and professionalism when caring for a mother during an emergency delivery.
Care of a Newborn Baby Born Outside of a Hospital Setting presented by Amber Coleman
Description
This lecture helps students understand the role of EMS professionals in keeping a newborn baby safe and stable after an out-of-hospital birth. It focuses on gentle, simple steps such as keeping the baby warm, clear breathing, and monitoring for signs of distress. The session emphasizes teamwork, communication with medical support, and the compassionate, careful handling that is key to newborn care.
Objectives:
- Describe the first steps EMS responders take to ensure a newborn’s safety immediately after birth.
- Explain the importance of keeping a newborn warm, clean, and calm while waiting for transport to a hospital.
- Recognize the signs that a newborn may need urgent medical attention and how responders communicate that to the hospital.
- Demonstrate understanding of how compassion, clear thinking, and teamwork contribute to a newborn’s well-being during emergency care.
Students will learn what is important to have in an OB kit and will receive one to take with them.