By EMS1 Staff
EMS1 columnist Michael Morse put together a list of things he would tell his younger EMS self. Morse included advice such as continually studying anatomy, the importance of always looking presentable and keeping mental health at the top of the priority list.
Following the “If I knew then what I know now” mentality, we asked our Facebook fans to reflect on what they would tell their 21-year-old EMS selves; here are some of their responses.
And if you haven’t already, add your thoughts in the comment section below.
- “You don’t know half of what you think you do. Experience counts as much, if not more, than education. Every call is important; you aren’t going to run the big one every day. Improve core strength, save your back. Save some of your money. Learn to cry more. Work hard and stop making excuses when you screw up. Own it and learn from it.” – Les Lambeth
- “Don’t let anyone tell you EMS isn’t a “real job.” Life is short. Do what makes you happy.” – Megan Penland
- “The ‘M’ and the ‘S’ are equally important in EMS. It’s a customer service job and the customer will frequently be scared, angry, confused or all three. Your job is still to take care of them like you would your own family.” – Galen Price
- “Just because you can does not mean you should. Treat your body well; it will outlive your EMS career. Spend time with your family. Have an exit plan; you’re just one incident away from not being able to work in EMS.” – Thomas Behrens
- “Find a support system early on. The ‘John Wayne’ mentality doesn’t work if you’re going to be in EMS long-term. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. And this industry will do a number on you if you don’t know how to cope. Jack Daniels isn’t coping. Stay humble, find support and don’t be afraid to ask for help when things get to be too much. You’re not alone.” – Lester Costa
- “Learn Spanish. Talk about the difficult calls; it helps you heal and prepares those who will be there at some point. Get a hobby away from the job.” – Bill Jones
- “Use a panoramic view on scene, then focus on what is in front of you in your office on wheels. Find a way to leave it behind after a call is done; deal with what is in front of you.” – David Swarner
- “Take care of your knees and back!” – Mark Gibbons
- “Bring more bagged lunches.” – Sam Martin