People everywhere need emergency services. Working for the fire department or ambulance services can be a rewarding way to give back to the community while deciding on a career path.
Other emergency services — such as becoming a paramedic — include some training and obtaining a license. Here are some tips if you’re interested in starting a career in emergency medical services.
1. Get The Necessary Training
Medical services are at the forefront of society, serving 25 to 30 million people annually in the U.S. Emergency medical technicians (EMTs) are usually the first call for an injury or illness. An advanced EMT requires some education to further assist other technicians with their duties, advanced medical knowledge and training.
To qualify to be a paramedic, you must obtain a two-year degree. An emergency medical responder (EMR) can provide first-responder services but can’t offer advanced care without the assistance of others. Each state provides its own set of various training programs to help you forge your career path.
2. Be Ready
The emergency medical services field can be challenging and keep you on your toes. Be ready for everything. Your assistance could potentially save a life or diffuse a life-threatening situation. Be prepared to be on the front lines of a disaster and soothe a sniffling child whose mom is going into an ambulance.
When problems arise, be willing to adapt and navigate them. Your training will help you make necessary decisions until more advanced care arrives or patients travel safely to a hospital. Stay calm, act as a professional and work as a team. Always be prepared for anything.
3. Become A Team Player
As a new EMS worker, there are some rules you should follow. You must always collaborate as a team, from police to firefighters to other first responders on the scene. The primary concern is the patient — you must be willing to work together to achieve the optimal outcome for that person.
New EMS workers will also receive a partner. You do not get to choose your partner, but you must always have their back and work together effectively. There will be unideal situations you must navigate together. Try to be the best partner possible and be grateful for the assistance. Circumstances will arise when you’ll be glad you have the help.
4. Learn How To Control The Situation
As an EMS professional, you will often act as the calm amongst the storm. People will be grateful for your arrival and look to you for answers or help in stressful situations. Above all, be kind and offer stability to an occurrence that has possibly warranted panic.
Sometimes, a strong beacon of hope can reduce fear and silence screams of uncertainty. Faith can move mountains when you’re in shock or panic. Provide calmness by breathing deeply and taking control of what’s going on in ways that calm those around you. Order helps every stressful occurrence.
Emergency medical services require patience, empathy, kindness and training. Entering into this field isn’t a decision you should make lightly. If you want to make a difference and feel like this could be your career, dive in. However, ensure this is the choice you want to make. You will want to leave every situation better than you found it. If you are unsure if you possess the confidence needed to take control of stressful situations, undergoing some additional training could be beneficial.
Thrive In The EMS Environment
Many options are available to help people, from emergency medical services to food banks to environmental groups. Taking on the training and empathy it requires to become an EMT is a worthwhile endeavor. If you think you’re ready to take on a role in providing this assistance, start your training and begin helping today.
