The EMS Newbie gets Schooled

In only the first 3 months of my new job, I have learned a myriad of new things; the kind of knowledge you don't find in a classroom. Everyday there is something new and exciting to learn and discover. I feel so very blessed everyday to do what I do. A lot of what I learn (or relearn) is applicable to life out of the uniform. So here is a random sampling of some observations, keeping in mind, this is just my take on things.

1. Don't put it off. Procrastination doesn't get you anywhere except with shampoo in your hair while the pager goes off. No, this hasn't happened but it's my biggest fear. It's why I get up early and get ready before my call starts. The moral of this story is do it now. If you have to pee, go. If you want to sweep, sweep now. You might not get the chance later.

2. If you feel like you need help, call. You are never "putting us out". It is our job, and we don't make enough money or have enough perks to be in it for a paycheck. We do it because we care about your well being.

3. Respect your elders. Never underestimate the wealth of knowledge age brings. Being new and keen is all fine and good, but listen to the guy who has been doing it for 10, 20, 30 years. He has been in situations your kids with the super crazy imaginations couldn't even dream up. Even outside of the job. There are forgotten skills to be learned from these folks.

4. Section. Township. Range. Perplexing to the town kid, but totally important.

5. Don't smoke. I know, I know; easy for the nonsmoker to say. I can't even imagine the grasp this addiction has on people. But if you could see what I have seen. Just trust me on this one, k.

6. Tell your family your wishes. This is especially important if you have a chronic health condition. As a health provider, I want to do right by you, the patient. It is also not the kind of decision making your family should have to do in a health crisis. Health care directives and living wills aren't any one's idea of a fun time, but are necessary when facing serious illness. Plus if you have an E.R.I.K. kit, you will be one of my favourite patients. Guaranteed.

7. Wear your seat belt. Every. Time.

8. Do what brings you joy. It took me years to figure out what I wanted to do as a job outside my house. Liking what you do for work makes it not feel much like 'work' at all.

9. Nurses are the most under appreciated people on the planet. Worth their weight in gold, they are.

10. Empathize. When you can do no more for someone, you can just be there, feeling their pain the way you would feel it if that was your grandmother or mother or auntie or friend. Because you know what? To someone, she is.