Many EMS professionals report they enjoy helping others and the challenges of the job. Yet, despite a calling to the career, some are quitting EMS in pursuit of new horizons.
I read it all the time: “They need to pay us better.” But do they need to increase EMS pay? Across the board, there is a lack of professionalism in our industry. I spent several years working in the field before moving to the administrative side of the house. It was an eye-opening experience to say the least.
Crew resource management includes everyone from dispatch to the emergency room staff. If we use it appropriately, we can improve teamwork, communication and problem solving; promote input from all team members regardless of level of certification or experience; and decrease the likelihood of a sentinel event.
When inappropriate behavior starts, it’s critical to address it right away. The worst thing to do is ignore it because it could get worse. Setting respectful boundaries is important.
Communication can be a major learning curve when working with a transgender colleague. Learn why it's important to understand how to talk to transgender people, so you don’t cause unintentional harm or say things you don’t mean to say.
Thoughts of trying to make everyone happy during the holidays while making ends meet and not working oneself to death can cause major holiday stress. I’m certain many of us have this in the back of our minds as the holiday season approaches.
It's important to remember people react to you based on judgments about your real life and your digital life. What you share on social media networks forms your personal and professional EMS reputation and brand.
The role of paramedicine is changing. While traditional EMS and paramedic roles still abound, more professionals are becoming community paramedics. Community paramedicine appeals to many paramedics because it allows them to provide more personalized care, often in underserved areas.
EMS started off as a branch of the Department of Transportation. But is that really the best place for it? We review the history of the EMS profession and how we can use that history to inform our professions future.