Meghan Shannon

Got it! That makes a lot of sense. Thanks guys!

So I'm interviewing with a big EMS department today for a dispatch position; I am an EMT-I but haven't been able to pass the physical test there to work as an EMT/Firefighter. (I hope to work my way towards passing in the next few months, meanwhile, get my foot in the door now.) I am very confidant; I know a of of the staff from my clinicals and testing. What's strange is that last night, one of the medics from this company was shot in her home, and she's now in critical/stable condition. I don't know her personally, though I think it's absolutely terrible and I really am empathetic. At my interview should I mention anything? Would it be tactful for me to ask how everyone is doing, or offer my empathy? Or would they see this as being nosy or intrusive? Any advice would be great! Thanks

It went really well! Thanks for all the advice! (and I don't think they got to see my car!)

Thanks everyone! I've devoted the weekend to focusing of my questions and answers and getting all of my paperwork together. You all have me paranoid about the car thing, though! I drive the saddest looking little saturn with a home repair job from a busted in sun roof. I'll probably park it behind some shrubbery or a dumpster or something!

So, I passed my exam last month, and this time last year I was just starting school! I am fortunate that I have an interview so soon.(Tuesday) Any advice on things to say/do during my interview that might win me this EMT-I position? 1) I know i need to discuss how eager I am to learn..) 2)This seems silly but I want to mention my experience with veterinary medicine (5 yrs) and working in triage and anesthesia. (I was thinking about vitals and working with non-responsive patients.) Any tips would be appreciated! xoxo Meghan

And that's where this intermediate's head explodes. Any recommendations for good reads on this stuff? I've had the hardest time getting the grasp of preoxegenation, which in my textbooks was mentioned briefly but did not give any specs or techniques. (applied for my first ems job this week, btw..... I really hope I get it!)

When I went for my practical exam last week, I was given the scenario that my patient was unconscious and breathing x 28 min, shallow, and labored. I told the assistant to give positive pressure ventilations w/ a BVM on O2. I passed, so I know I didn't kill the guy, but I'd love to know if this was an appropriate intervention or if I should have done anything different. I was hoping a seasoned EMT might give me some insight. <3

It was cake! I'm an EMT now.

Here's my real question about combitube station. Did you hyperventilate the patient on room air or take the 30 seconds to start by attaching the BVM to the 02? Because according to the sheet we can do either. Is there a preference? And is there a difference between hyperventilation and pre-oxygenation?

I love the "blue first". I was always worried about what cuff comes first. And the Breathing is always good to remember. Thanks!