medik8

:oops: Ummm....yeah....I have. I ended up with someone's spaghetti-laced vomit in my HAIR, as well as other lost bodily functions surrounding me in the middle of a NASTY code. :roll:

Literally....turned to the side...threw up in the trash can about 3 times, :pukeleft: wiped the mouth on the sleeve, and continued with compressions. :dontknow:

Whadd'ya gonna do? It's part of the job.

I also had someone in ER with a HORRIBLE anal abscess that had to be drained. I've never seen anything quite so gross...or smell quite so bad. (It was worse than an GI bleed, as far as I'm concerned.) :shock: I puked on that one too....but made it to the bathroom in private. lol.

On that note......YIPPEE!!!!!!!...........I can't wait to go to work! lmao

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The fact that you have friends and loved ones mostly outside of EMS is to your advantage. It helps to keep this kind of perspective. It also helps that your wife will have other friends to hang out with when you're working. Expect that when you hang out with your EMS friends that your wife will be VERY bored unless there are other non-EMS folks to talk to there.

As a rookie medic, you can expect the shifts that a lot of folks don't want: overnights, really bloody early am, weekends, holidays. The advantage of this is that you can be home when most others are not. The disadvantage is that if your wife works normal-person-hours, you may not see a lot of each other.

Job availability varies by area. Many busy systems are very competitive and may not want to take you right out of medic school. Others will ONLY take rookies, hoping to train them up in the ways of that particular service. Getting a job running non-emergent transports for $9.25 an hour is very easy, and those services are always hiring no matter where you live. Not as exciting and glamorous as 911 work, but it's a steady job with a fair amount of job security.

The job is what you make of it. Very few people retire from it, having moved on to other career fields or stepped up to RT, RN, or MD/DO. Being 60 years old banging around to calls in the middle of the night is just not that appealing. The career ladder is limited, being that your choices of moving up usually entails becoming management or going into related work like teaching (ACLS, PALS, Paramedic) or consulting.

Ditto on what ak just said. Just remember, like in the ER, you can never beat the rack. What I'm saying is, there's always another call to be run if you hang around the station long enough, and there's always someone else that's sick (there's always another chart in the rack). Avoid the temptation to hold out for "the big one" or spend extra hours on shift waiting for it. Do your thing, clock out, go home.

It's a job like any other and a job like no other. You get to see some very neat things, make people feel better, and perform a valuable service to your community. It's an adrenaline rush at times, which is why many people get into it. When that rush wears off, it's easy to become disillusioned, or to spend your time and effort looking for the rush again. At the same time you will see many things which will bother you, which will defy explanation, and Barbara may not really understand that part. As ak said, don't live the job, and this will help stay in perspective.

'zilla

:thumbright: Well said, Doc!

Thanks medik8 & AZCEP,

You know what's kind of funny? I feel about 10 years old asking these kinds of questions...but I've been self employed almost all of my life, looking at EMS is like looking at another country.

You guys (and gals) are so great. Even though it has never happened when I post a goofy question like this I always cringe, waiting for the first dozen replies to be "Certainly you didn't expect us to spend time answering such an idiotic question!?"

But it never happens, someone is always kind enough to take the time to post an honest, helpful response.

Thanks again!!

Have a great day!

Dwayne

:wink: Not a dumb question at all, Dwayne. In fact, very incredibly smart, as Dust said, to explore what you are getting into before you spend all the time and money on school, and make life changing decisions. Any way we can help you....we will. I wish you the best of luck and happiness. 8)

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What is your day/week/family time like? Being brutally honest here...not much time at home. One typical week may go like this...I have a couple jobs and teach (because it's necessary salary wise... :roll: So...again...typical week for ME... Work Monday (not at home) Off Tues during day, work Tues night until wed morn, leave for wed day job...(not at home), off Thurs day, work thurs night until fri morn, leave for Fri day job (not home) work Sat/Sun night possibly, throw in teaching where available... Rarely eat dinner at home, have some time on 2 off days, depending on what days they fall on. Still manage to handle everything...you adapt...you learn to make it work...that's about all I can say. :roll:

What kind of schedules are to be expected as a "green" medic? ?? Depends on where you work.

What is the availability of jobs? Again, depends on where you work. Check the market in your area before you jump in.

Can you make a living? Depends on your needs. I get by just fine, but as I said, I work several jobs. Not just one.

Are you Happy? Satisfied? I can't ever imagine doing anything else in my life....ever. Be prepared to make sacrifices...talk it over. It wasn't good for my marriage... :? but that is not the case for everyone. Don't get discouraged. Just talk it over with your wife. It's important for her to understand what you are getting into. Will she be supportive of you, will she be supportive of your bad days?... Also, if you are able to stick to one job, it's not bad. It's when you work several that things get rough and require more sacrifice/understanding. Job market and salary are very important. Just be cautious...

I wish you luck. :wink: As I said, I love my job. It's truly made me a better and happier person, despite what I've had to sacrifice. It's not for everyone...really, only you can decide.

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I have to say that I completely agree with AK here :wink: I would have done the same exact thing with the baby. If that is what brought that mother comfort in her difficult time, then so be it. Something that simple could have made all the difference in her having or not having difficulty accepting her baby's death. It's all about my patient in these situations. I may not share their beliefs, but I will put aside my own to do the job that I so love to do...and that is making people feel better, whatever that may take.

I am not part of any "organized" religion, but I do have beliefs of my own. I am a good person, and I care. Just because I don't go to church on Sundays, doesn't make me heartless. I cannot count the number of times that scared patients have asked me to pray with them. Patients who knew they were going to die...and in some cases because I knew also, and was honest with them and they obviously could see it in my eyes. I will put my whole heart into making that dying person feel some sort of comfort before their last breath. In many cases, I didn't share their religion or their beliefs. But, I choose to do whatever it takes to bring comfort to my patient. I have been asked to hold hands, recite the Lord's Prayer, to say a prayer for their family left behind to find strength and comfort during the loss they are about to go through, or just a prayer so that they are not scared and "praying" as they die. I've hugged family members, and I've had sobbing wives and mothers put their heads in my lap and hold on for dear life. Whatever works. I'm not the best at praying, not being an active part of church. But I've found, it doesn't take much. When patients are in that situation, a few words and they look at you like you are an angel.

I've had someone cry and profusely thank me for being "their angel" before the last breath was drawn. I took that one home with me...and think about it more than I care to. But, I'm honored to have been a part of that delicate time in that person's life. Sometimes we are all they have. I always ask myself this...if my child, husband, boyfriend, mother, etc...loved one, were dying, and I couldn't be there with them...what would I wish for? Would I wish the only person with them be tight lipped and closed minded and "sterile"...or would I find comfort in finding out that that stranger held my loved one's hand, and honored their simple wishes and that they died in peace. I'll go for the latter. It's a decision, and a choice...and I certainly won't be judgemental of anyone here for their beliefs...but I ask that you try to understand mine.

Mutual respect...that's all... :wink:

xoxoxoxo.... 8

Yes....as a matter of fact, I have jumped into water like that. Naked. :shock:

The person below me likes to eat Chocolate Chip Cookies in bed, and then frequently wakes up the next morning with crumbs stuck all over their body, including the butt crack. YEEKS... The catcher here is....they LIKE the rough sandpapery feeling. :dontknow:

Death sucks.

Truth is....usually it doesn't bother me. As we all know, you get hardened to it. The thing that kills me is kids, or a really anguished spouse. :roll: I deal....sometimes it's harder than others. Sometimes I forget and eat my cereal, go on with my day. Sometimes not. Usually things are fine. Lately, been having a hard time. Can't get a certain someone out of my head, or my dreams....

Like I said....kids are tough.

I hear ya, Race.....and I understand what you are saying...

For the past several months I've had to "help" another paramedic out because he didn't know who to do this or that, and always called for another paramedic when he should have been able to handle it on his own.

Ugh....I've got one of THOSE.....and thank goodness he doesn't work often, but when we are together...I feel like this...>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> :director:

:roll:

My goal is to make the National Registry to have to develop a new certificate. I received my "20 year maintaining certification for Paramedic" years ago... I want a 50 yr "Gold one !"...LOL

Be safe,

R/R 911

I have COMPLETE faith in you, Rid. Go get 'em!! :wink:

xoxoxo

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I've never "refused" to take anyone to the hospital for anything...regardless of how stupid. However, I'm not beyond scolding a little [-X and properly educating the "stupid" portion of the public on what a "true emergency" consists of.... :roll: and furthermore...quite possibly what could be happening at that very moment that cannot be taken care of because I'm dealing with their bruised finger. Most of the time...not always...you see that look of "awww crap" on their face as they are imagining my scenario of a baby not breathing, and subsequently dying because of their nonsense. For those that have no reaction...well....you can't fix stupid, or selfish for that matter.

Weeeelll....I for one hope no one has a problem with age limit (max) for medics. I'm sure as hell not gettin any younger...and I'm NOT planning on quitting for a LONG time...so the world is stuck with me. If that should include wrinkles, glasses, saggy body and sarcasm, so be it.

Good GOD I hope that never happens to me! :shock:

That's the most common complaints. As you can see, EMT school doesn't hardly prepare you for any of that.

LMAO...Dust...what ARE we going to do with you?... :wink:

xoxo

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Medik8 - You have a very sound point. Too often, the "machines" are overutilized. But, they do have their place in life and can be utilized with accuracy in the place of a manual BP. Thery're not a completely bad thing.

Oh...and I absolutely agree with you, lp...they do have their place...but I prefer the alternative for a BP reading. Machines are great for a quick reading, an I DO use them, but usually follow them up with a manual BP. Same as a pulse ox, and I've mentioned this before. I use it, but not until after I get a good look at my patient and assess their overall appearance, color and breathing on my own. Then, depending on what I think, I do, despite what the machine tells me. Just how I am...that's all... :oops:

As for the optional talking...yeah...lmao....I remember those old movies. The "scoop and go", white, horrible outfits. I laughed so hard I almost peed the other day. Just imagining the outcomes. Woulda sucked to have been a patient back then. "I'm having chest pain...and I can't breathe...." :shock: Oh....just "ride" it out. :dontknow: lmao...

:roll: Sorry...but I hate machines. This is a little straightforward and harsh (forgive my current mood), but if you can't take a manual BP and get a good reading....then forget it. It's just an opinion...but I don't trust machines. I want the crew to take a REAL blood pressure, listen, learn, and give me the number. If you're not sure, or it's hard to hear...so be it. I'll give it a shot...but in this world of automated, robotic, cash-registeric, repetitive, brainless work......don't get me started. Nobody can hold their own anymore. Machines do everything for us. Now, that can be a good thing, but here....I prefer the cuff and scope. Just my opinion...not trying to offend. :wink:

Alco....You are absolutely right..there IS a difference...and I wish to apologize for the way in which MY post was worded if it offended you in any way. (I'm only speaking for myself here). I think it's important that you pointed this out. I always did say...that if I lost my foot (or similar appendage) in an accident tomorrow...that I would cry, grieve, go to therapy and get back on the damn truck. Nothing would stop me. I guess the situations are not much different. It would still be a handicap if I didn't have a foot, but that doesn't mean I couldn't do the job. I have to applaud your persistence and initiative to achieve your goals/dreams. A lot of people wouldn't try. Please know that our responses are not personal. But, that said...this is the reason for these opportunities for people to talk. So that we can all learn from one another. I won't lie and say I have absolutely no problem with it. It may not be a desirable situation, however, there are obviously those of you who have learned how to make it work, and for that I respect you. Maybe you've changed my mind a little. Completely deaf....no...I still have to stick to my initial thoughts. But hearing loss.....meh.....lots of firefighters, etc. have hearing loss. I can see how the job may still be done and done to the best of your ability.

Thanks for your story. :wink:

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Uh...yeah....a lot of unanswered questions here, but the way I see it....we all get tired of our job on occasion and just want to go home...but the fact is, our job is to save lives and help people in need. If a call comes in at the end of my shift, yeah...you'd better believe I'm cussing under my breath on some days :angryfire: (others no), but I pick my stuff up and get on the truck. It's the only way, as far as I'm concerned. Now, if the other crew was sitting in their chairs looking at me, then they would have to take it. Like everyone says, unanswered questions. I would not let them repeatedly screw me over. However, if they didn't get on the truck, I wouldn't let it jeopardize someone's life. I would go on the call, and then deal with them at a supervisory level later.

It's sad and unfortunate, but no, they don't belong in this profession. As mentioned by those above, lung sounds, scene safety issues, general communication..... There's no way someone with this disability can do the job to suit the needs of the patient and their co-workers. A lot of times, there are only two crew members on an ambulance. Not at all trying to be rude, but I would not want to depend 100% on that person as a partner. Their intentions may be well above any normal partner you may have, but their limitations are what counts. Possibly a desk job in EMS, or some other form to accommodate them...just not in the field. Too many mistakes and liability. I don't see how it could work, even with the best of attitudes or intentions.

I don't mind being "there" at all...in fact....I love it when I'm "there"... I dream about being "there".

The person below me likes to wear granny underwear hiked up to the chin.

Hey...now....guys.....don't hold size against us small folks. :oops: I am in great shape, and can pretty much pull my own weight...however....yeah...because I'm not very tall or big, it sometimes IS a disadvantage for me, but it doesn't mean I'm bailing out on my fair share of the work. Sometimes it's just more difficult for me...but you'd better believe I'm going to give it my all....or die trying.... :wink:

Hampton...My primary job is in EMS, then in off-time, work another part time EMS job, as well as teach EMTs and another job that's just here and there, not EMS related. I work so much with teaching and the other EMS job, in my off-time because I love it so much. But, the other part is, (drum roll)....yeah....the pay. And you're right...it sucks here. Probably just about more than anywhere else. :?

Good points, Hampton. Security is important. I'm not young, and it's hard....(and I should mention that I have 4 jobs to make it work, 3 of which are in EMS). I have to follow my heart, because otherwise I'm miserable...but it definitely is not easy...ever... A lot, too, depends on your cost of living and where you are located, size of family, etc. Ya do what ya gotta do...and go from there...

:wink:

Hi Samson...

First of all, you've come to the right place. This City has a bunch of great people with many years of experience and wise advice. Although views and perspectives vary from time to time (as in any case), we'll help you all we can. The variety of posts you will receive will help you see all sides of your situation and hopefully, give you the help you need.

Everyone in this business falls prey to what you are experiencing when they are new. Even those of us who seem to be "naturals" are at one time or another doubting our abilities inside. I know I did. :shock: As I recall, I didn't feel any real rock solid amount of confidence until I was into EMS at least two years. There are still times when I've had a particularly stressful call or bad day, that I beat myself up and wonder...did I do the right thing, or could I have done something different. All these second guesses lead to the possibility of developing lack of confidence, although, I feel it IS important to be a critic of yourself. It keeps you thinking, and evaluating your performance, and therefore, helps you to become an even better EMT or medic. To always keep learning...that is the real challenge I try to give myself to be the best I can be. There is always something that I can learn better, or in a different way. We all can.

I notice in your post that you say that you really want to make this work more than anything. You definitely have the right attitude. It sounds like EMS is in your heart, and that's the first step to being good at what you do. But, you also mentioned that you never quit at anything. These two statements are alike, but kind of different in that...I just want to make sure that this is what you want to do, first and foremost. If you are hanging around just because you don't want to be a quitter...that's not really the right reason. Although, I seem to gather that you want to do this. After you determine that, then don't give up. Some of us may be better at something than others, but we all have the ability to do what our heart desires, you just may have to work a little harder at it.

My advice to you is to sit down in a quiet place and be honest with yourself. Ask yourself what it is that you feel you are not confident about. Is it patient care, deciding on proper care, assessment? Are you BLS or part of an ALS team? Are you familiar with your truck? Are you comfortable with how everything works? There are many questions here. Some contribute to lack of confidence, and will smooth out in time. Education can be a key.

Is it that you are nervous on calls? If ALS, when a medic asks you to provide care, do you panic? Do you know how to do what you are asked to do? Do you work with individuals that make you uncomfortable? I'd like to know what it is that makes you feel uncomfortable, exactly, and then I feel I can have a more productive discussion with you. I've had new partners that I could tell, in the first minute of a call, that they were nervous, scared, and/or disorganized. A year later, after providing some opportunities for frank discussions (away from work), extra training on equipment or interventions that made them apprehensive, reassurance, and positive coaching, some of those same people are my best partners now, and you'd never know they ever had a confidence problem. Sometimes it just takes someone to genuinely care, and listen. I may not have all the answers, but I promise I'll give it my best shot.

Expand on your thoughts a little. I'd like to help all I can. :wink:

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8, I wouldn't expect anything less from you!

:roll: Didn't think so...

So much so, that I now am enrolled at the CC in the Paramedic program. Our first class was last night and it sounds like it will be a tough road but rewarding in the end.

Going back to school is a bit overwhelming, but I well persevere! LMAO

I'll keep you posted as classes progress.

Oh YEAH!....that's what I'M talkin' about! Way to GO, Jake! You will be just fine. I have faith!! :wink:

(Besides...I'm gonna need your support when I do the Critical Care classes this fall) lmao....EEEEKKKKK.....

You knew there was a catch, didn't ya?

xoxo

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