About
Prehospital Trauma Life Support (PHTLS) is an intensive, in-person 8-hour course focused on high-impact assessment and management of trauma patients using evidence-based, team-driven care principles developed by NAEMT in collaboration with the American College of Surgeons Committee on Trauma.
Course focus
Participants learn to rapidly assess, prioritize, and manage multi-system trauma with an emphasis on critical thinking, structured patient assessment, and life-saving interventions that reduce morbidity and mortality in the prehospital setting.
Key skills and topics
Scene safety and structured trauma assessment to identify immediate life threats quickly and systematically.
Airway management, ventilation/oxygenation strategies, and hemorrhage control including shock recognition and treatment.
Adult and special populations considerations with realistic patient simulations to build confident, team-based care.
Format and certification
Format: Instructor-led, hands-on skills stations and scenario-based learning over 8 hours in person.
Credentialing: PHTLS provider recognition is widely accepted, CAPCE-accredited, and typically valid for four years, meeting continuing education requirements.
Who should attend
EMTs, paramedics, nurses, PAs, physicians, first responders, and public safety professionals seeking current best practices for prehospital trauma care.
Materials and prerequisites
Courses commonly require the current PHTLS textbook during class; offerings may vary by training center and edition, so participants should confirm materials upon registration.
Outcomes
Graduates will perform rapid trauma surveys, control life threats, manage airway and hemorrhage, and coordinate transport decisions using a structured, evidence-based approach proven to improve trauma outcomes.