I am disturbed by the increasing frequency of media reports of EMS providers being assaulted while on the job. Let’s cut to the chase: While it’s a risk, it is not acceptable.
There are few other careers out there where being injured by a violent encounter is “part of the job.” Sadly, many front line health care providers are exposed to this issue daily.
For a long time there seemed to be a cultural acceptance by EMS providers that being assaulted was an expected and even normal part of the daily duties or providing emergency care. I’ve heard many stories about on-duty EMTs and medics being punched, scratched or kicked, with no police report filed or criminal charges made against the assailant.
Let’s be clear, I’m not referring to patients who may be medically altered and physically reacting to noxious stimuli. I’m talking about people who consciously and deliberately strike out against us because they are irritated or angry. To not bring legal action against these assailants sends the poor message that it’s okay to hit someone who is trying to help.
This trend is likely to continue, as our society becomes increasingly tolerant of violent behavior. We need to be better trained and prepared to stay safe, recognize unsafe behavior early, and know when to withdraw and de-escalate the situation.
We don’t teach this in primary education programs, and we don’t provide enough training opportunities for existing providers, but courses specifically created for this are out there. There are also local resources that provide basic information about recognition, de-escalation, and defensive tactics that can better prepare our folks to stay safe while working.
It’s not okay to be assaulted. It’s up to us to make sure we minimize that concern.
