Geriatric Education for EMS (GEMS)

GEMS provides EMS practitioners at all levels with the skills and knowledge to address the unique medical, social, environmental and communications challenges of older adults. Developed by NAEMT, in partnership with the American Geriatrics Society, GEMS empowers EMS practitioners to help improve medical outcomes and quality of life for geriatric patients.

GEMS features case-based lectures, live action video, hands-on skill stations, simulation and small group scenarios to fully engage students in the learning experience. GEMS covers the following topics:

Changes with age

Assessment of older adults

Pharmacology and medication toxicity

Psycho-social emergencies

Elder abuse

End-of-life care issues

Cardiovascular and respiratory emergencies

Trauma

Neurological emergencies and altered mental status

Mobile integrated healthcare

Special considerations for older adults in disaster response

Skin and wound care

Medical devices frequently used by older adults

Two GEMS courses are offered - a core and advanced course. They may be offered separately or sequentially. Both courses are appropriate for EMTs, paramedics, emergency medical responders, nurses, physician assistants and physicians. GEMS is accredited by CAPCE and recognized by NREMT. *

*http://www.naemt.org/education/gems