Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Research Guide

This guide contains library resources to help you succeed in your Emergency Medical Services (EMS) coursework, whether you're obtaining your EMT certificate or planning to obtain your AAS in Prehospital Emergency Care. Here are two valuable library resources you can rely on throughout your program.

CINAHL Ultimate (EBSCO)

• What it offers: Provides full-text access to more than 2,000 active journals across more than 50 specialties, including emergency medical services (EMS), prehospital care, paramedicine, nursing, and other allied health fields. Articles include the latest research, clinical guidelines, case studies, skills reviews, and tips for emergency care providers.
• How to use it: Use CINAHL Ultimate to find trustworthy, evidence-based information for assignments, skills practice, and staying updated on emergency medical guidelines or patient care protocols. It’s extremely helpful for researching EMS topics like trauma management, airway and ventilation, cardiac care, scene safety, patient assessment, and EMS operations. Search with keywords such as “prehospital trauma,” “EMT patient assessment,” “paramedic medication administration,” or “EMS communication.” Narrow your results to recent and full-text content for the best results.

Human Anatomy: Gale Interactive

• What it offers: An online resource featuring interactive 3D models for learning and exploring human anatomy. Allows students to “dissect” virtual bodies, examine organs, bones, blood vessels, muscles, and body systems—identifying structures crucial for EMS scenarios.
• How to use it: Use this database to build a stronger mental picture of patient anatomy, helping you understand injuries, illnesses, and interventions you’ll encounter in the field (such as airway placement, splinting fractures, or identifying internal bleeding). It’s perfect for prepping for practical exams, skills labs, or simply reinforcing your classroom learning by visualizing what’s beneath the skin. Try focusing on anatomical regions relevant to trauma care (chest, abdomen, limbs), airway management (head/neck), or circulatory emergencies.

Tip: Both resources are available online through your college library. Make use of them to improve your exam prep, deepen your clinical understanding, and be better prepared for both coursework and real-world EMS practice.

Remember, the library is here to help you along the way! If you have a research question, use the Get Help from a Librarian tab to start a chat or schedule a research appointment.