Why You SHOULD NOT Be An EMT or Paramedic

[@Interloper783]

Why not to become an EMT: - The girl at Salad and Go makes more money than I do.

[@brandongeorge8342]

I get we dont get paid much but dude I clear 1100 a week as an emt. Yes i work a fair bit but yeah I am decently living.

[@keithjackson2035]

Simple

[@martinacapasso9085]

If I can be nosy what city and how many hours do you work? I may become a emt

[@Interloper783]

@@martinacapasso9085 Phoenix AZ, I'm pulling 48 a week right now

[@xaviergarcia7965]

@@martinacapasso9085 my uncle works in EMS. Riverside County, CA. He runs 911 in my city but he also has a CCT endorsement and works IFT if he wants overtime hours. He makes 26.50/hr on 911 and 28.95/hr while CCT. For context he works AMR 911 and for CCT he works in LA County. (He technically has 2 ‘licences’ as a paramedic in California because the way it works, each county or group of counties have their own licenses and own SOP’s so they run differently.). He makes like 1600 a week after taxes and post tax deductions. This is after a 40hr+ work week.

[@pattyk7176]

I’ve said it once and I will say it again… paramedics and emts aka every first responders should get paid more than actors and NFL players… 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@andrewdescant4996]

Entertainment is apparently more important than civilians lives.

[@PULAG]

Nah they are overpaid lol seeing how most their day consist of waiting and sitting around

[@Yup78909]

@@PULAGk yeah lemme have a 9-5 and when you got a heart attack at 2am lemme know how that goes bud

[@PULAG]

@@Yup78909 won't ever have a heart attack lol won't ever need you.

[@DeeDumAss]

I soundly say move but a fasho pay raise , peoole try to kill us for none when we do our job I’m famous and I wanna b an emt juz for the experience

[@TheQwik512]

My first call as an EMT: 32 Female, full arrest, skipped her dialysis appointment the day before and spent the bus fare money to get there and back on a gallon of milk for her two kids. Kids and grandma stood there watching as we are trying to get her back after being down > 20 minutes. That was a major reality check for me after believing in school that I was going to save them all.

[@SC-hu5pz]

😭

[@totalmtbnetwork4348]

Typical case. Patient most likely presented with hyperkalemia. She was most likely given calcium chloride, and treated for Brady cardia or v tach. She was either immediately pased or shocked with cardioversion

[@brandonnotsowise2640]

They had me do CPR on an older woman gone into arrest at a hospital on my EMT class clinical shift. First time doing CPR for real and it may have caused me to rethink being an emt bc I never took the registry after passing the class.

[@aggee10]

It's scary having EMT's doing 911.

[@henihig8968]

Man that’s hard my first was a broken wrist

[@OMaley84]

In regards to taking control, one of my mentors years ago said, “When you arrive on scene, the emergency is over.” I have always remembered that and it is true. People call because they don’t know what to do and like you mentioned, are scared in some fashion. It takes time to build confidence, but when you gather enough experience and training, there is nothing that you can’t manage. Whether it is a treatment, procedure, rapid transport, or simply hold someone’s hand, you are there to to what you’ve been trained on. Great episode and thanks for your hard work on these videos, excellent content man!

[@rhoonah5849]

Great advice.

[@yaroldimanzano2199]

"slow is pro"

[@SPSM87]

❤

[@zacharyveatch8438]

Another thing to add. Don’t become and EMT or a medic if you aren’t able to be humbled.

[@Tank196958]

Little brother, you nailed it. I will add a couple of things if I may to you and all the others in our field. Even though you are able to overcome all of the stated issues that may cause you to not enter public safety in one form or the other, everyone has a limit to the tragedy we witness in this job. I urge each and every one of you to find a healthy coping mechanism as alcoholism and even drug use is ever present by some in our field. Please do not turn to the bottle or another destructive mechanism to cope. Talk to someone please. There are many of us in the field that will listen and completely understand. Also, do not even entertain the idea that crying over a certain patient or event makes you weak. Just "sucking it up" only lasts for so long and it is usually only to the end of the present shift. Trust me, we all have emotional responses to certain calls. We all also understand how you are feeling. Find someone you trust to open up to and stay away from those habits we are apt to develop that are self destructive. Secondly, not being able to handle the job is not a sign of weakness. Not everyone is cut out for what we do and THAT IS OK! I have seen far too many people enter this field because someone pushed them to become something they may not have been able to do. It always ends badly for them if they are not careful. If you have entered the field of public safety and realize along the way, even if you have a year or two under your belt, that this is hurting you in ways you did not expect, for the sake of your mental health, it is ok to leave and enter the civilian theatre in another profession unrelated to EMS, Fire, or Law Enforcement. It is ok. None of this means you are weak. It just means that witnessing what we do on a daily basis is bad for your mental health. I will add that there are tons of support groups out there for any field personnel suffering in silence. Please invest the time to find one of these groups before the problem overwhelms you. I pray for us all each day and if I can be of any help, please message me through my page. God bless you all and stay safe......and sane.

[@hazelcarter6937]

Thank you so much for the much needed information. I am definitely interested and just don’t know the step to take 1st.

[@josephsapp446]

If I may add something else I have not been in the FD long but I have learned something out 48 hour crews all go to church on Sunday mornings. Even if it’s their shift they go to church. It truly does help even if you are not a Christian go to your home church or sanctuary spiritual battles and spiritual warfare are the hardest to overcome alone. First responder law enforcement and EMT suicide is at an all time high

[@angelamerson7299]

@@josephsapp446 AMEN!

[@genesisrojas1015]

God bless you so much brother. I want to be an EMS and I want to help people, please brother if you know any training in Massachusetts send me a message here

[@jeffhartson9203]

My first call was for an unresponsive infant (4mos old). I was the EMT on this call We arrived at the home and didn't even get out of the ambulance. Instead the fireman who was doing CPR handed the infant through through the window and I continued CPR until we got to the hospital. En route the infant aspirated and I thought I had an airway. We arrived at the ER and the ER nurse took the baby from me and into the ER where EKG Leeds were put on. All I saw was a flat line on the screen. I was devastated. I explained to both the ER nurse and ER DOC what I did. They both agreed i DID as a I was trained. The baby died of SIDS. It took me over 4 months to get over it but when I do Infant CPR during recertification PTSD sets in.

[@nursecathy123cat]

You did the absolute best anyone could have done.

[@yesminty7486]

Thank you so much for what you did and who you are.

[@JohnstasBACK]

I'm working as an EMT to collect clinical hours for my Master's program. I only wish that the training/class was more realistic and hands-on and less bookwork.

[@hughiebuchanan526]

If you don’t mind sharing, what is your master’s program?

[@JohnstasBACK]

@@hughiebuchanan526 Master's of Physician Assistant Studies

[@hughiebuchanan526]

@@JohnstasBACK oh man I’m actually taking that same route. I just graduated Emt school and heading into paramedic classes this fall. What Bachelors are you getting prior to PA school?

[@JohnstasBACK]

@@hughiebuchanan526 Biology is the easiest lmao. Im 23 and HEAVILY insecure with not graduating yet so im doing whatever i can to graduate as FAST as humanly possible (this fall)

[@hughiebuchanan526]

@@JohnstasBACK this is insane bro, I’m 23 as well and feel the exact same way. I went to college after hs and didn’t know wtf I was doing lol and I kept switching my major until finally going through EMS

[@rwesreal]

EMS has changed over the last 10-15 years. System is extremely impacted and the 911 system is abused….not to mention wall times in the ER’s. Still one of the most honorable career paths. The key is to take care of your mental and physical health. Thanks for the video!

[@GodFist215]

Thanks this is good advice for me. I'm in emt training now.

[@brianbcj]

Try being a carsalesman or in construction

[@mph5896]

"As the beacon turns" is a book written by one of my old partners. You read the same type of stories from 50 years ago that happen today. My advice if you really want to work ems. Put a couple years in and move on with life to another career.

[@MaruskaStarshaya]

I wonder why 911 operators do not discard those cases where there's no emergency? Isn't it's a waste of resources and time?

[@thomasadams4770]

I was an EMT for a short while. I wound up leaving the field because I have an anxiety issue. Anxiety attacks after each call does not help your mental state or a patient and can get in the way. For anyone going through deciding wether or not the field is for you it's alright if it isn't. If you need to work at it more to really see what's what that fine but if not that's fine to.

[@jessicagamino9556]

Ive only been in it for 3 months and I have a lot of anxiety before going into to work and during.

[@s1rm0rr1lswdsx3]

​@@jessicagamino9556same here i only did it for 6 weeks and decided the anxiety was to much for me and it turns out i really don't like dealing with sick and injured people.

[@anonymouspatriot5146]

As a young volunteer firefighter, I was seriously considering going for a paramedic license, until I went on several medical assists. It doesn’t bother me being around it, but getting hands on with body fluids and just generally gross people isn’t something I want to do every day. I still want to be a career firefighter after my time in the service, but maybe not as a fire medic. My advice to anyone considering this line of work, do some ridealongs in an ambulance and get some firsthand experience before you commit to a paramedic course. All of you medics out there, hats off to you, you definitely have my respect. It takes a special kind of person to work in ems.

[@TheOutlawMan]

You will likely still be required or asked to do medical things to assist the EMS crews. Same with cops, even if it's just BLS tasks.

[@jedii3488]

It’s required to have your emt here if you’re on a fire dept.

[@TheOutlawMan]

@@jedii3488 Depends on the agency, but yeah.

[@jaheenelson5497]

@@TheOutlawMan not even likely lol. It’s a for sure. The majority of all calls we get are medical assist

[@Dproud2700]

I did it for 14 years with no regrets

[@Cheesycake11155]

🫡

[@thebatbros1]

Being a paramedic is the best , i am glad i didn’t stop at emt

[@DeadoffDrop209]

Thank you for what you do! God Bless

[@steveabraham3052]

Being a paramedic, is awesome… I’m glad I kept going from there.

[@ChrisRRT]

I am a EMT and I love it too

[@thebatbros1]

@@steveabraham3052 yea like just the amount of stuff you can do is so awesome. dont get me wrong when i was going through emt i loved it too, but once i saw how much the scope of practice expands in the paramedic level it was eye opening

[@kenlequack3202]

How long you been a paragod?

[@Robnord1]

This old man, who is studying for EMR, thoroughly enjoyed your video. 👍 In my earlier days I was an X-ray tech, and for a while a CNA in a care center, so I know some of what you're speaking of. God bless you EMTs and Paramedics for doing what you do. Your patients (or victims as we used to joke) are lucky to have you.

[@razvandobos9759]

Did you ever do fluoroscopy?

[@Robnord1]

@@razvandobos9759 Not really. The hospital I was in had docs and residents do their own flouro. All I did for that was punch the right buttons and position the patient.

[@Woj.benjamin]

If I could respectfully add one more thing to your list: Back injuries. Lots of time lifting people in not so ideal ways and sitting hunched over in the back of an ambulance reaching for stuff while it bumps down the road creates eventual back issues in EMS.

[@AlphaDal-if9vv]

I'm glad you mentioned this, I'm trying to get my foot in the door to a career in healthcare and will be starting community college this fall. I'm leaning toward the medical assistant program, considered ems, but given my own pre-existing health conditions, one of which being a bad back, makes me nervous thinking about it. Although I feel my back is lot stronger now and I haven't had any serious pain for long time, the idea of possible injuring it again while trying to do ems probably means it isn't a good fit for me. haha

[@Nerdybdirty]

Fortunately in the more dense areas they have powered cots and fireman to help with heavy people. Been in EMS 5 years and no Injuries plus I also lift and keep my back strong

[@sarahz7760]

That’s my problem rn and that’s one of the reasons I decided not the further my career in healthcare. My second biggest problem is that dead people who die in weird positions or who were found after long time scare the shit out of me and I need to sleep over at a friends house for the week. I still take on some shifts because I like it too much.

[@damiien2684]

@@Nerdybdirty Ahh only 5 eh, well wait till it is 20.

[@goldfinger-9992]

I lasted 11 years until my back couldn’t take it anymore. One of the most rewarding careers a person can have. But you pay for it, physically and mentally.

[@medicteacher5938]

I had a piece of advice shared with me when I was an EMT student in 1985 that I share with the Paramedics and EMT's I train today, "You don't have to get all your experience in your first couple of years. You will see and do plenty in your career." I have watched new Paramedics come to our agency and they work their 24 hour shift, get off duty and go to the rescue squad they work at and pull another 12-24 hours, and then when that shift is over, they go to their fire department and pull 12-24 hours there. That of they pull overtime EMS shifts so they can "get experience". Us older guys warn them but they don't listen and 3-5 years later, they are totally burned out.

[@dylan.-6527]

You can't eat or pay rent, without overtime... As a EMT...

[@rola3561]

All of this was explained to us almost everyday in our emt class, many instructors and people in ems, fire, and even pd have said “don’t do this job if you’re hoping to be the hero every time”. But if this is truly your passion and you accept the pros and cons of public service then follow through, regardless of these scary youtube titles or what your peers have to say about it.

[@sliceofspice6028]

A lot of these are feel also really differ from person to person and how willing they are to grow or change. I know when I started I was about the opposite of what was expected initially, I struggled at being lead tech, I wasn't confident, I had trouble talking to people, I wasn't familiar with gruesome scenes or those major traumatic events. Over 3 years I've grown, I've learned how to lead and be confident in my abilities, I'm not uncomfortable with those critical scenes or things like death, and I know that my growth as a provider is just beginning. A lot of that i attribute to meeting and working with some amazing people that really pushed me forward not only as a provider but as a person in general. I genuinely believe that most people could become an EMT or Paramedic given that they enter the job with the knowledge of what they're getting into, they are very driven by change and are willing to continue bettering themselves, and they have or are developing a strengthened mental state that can take the weight of all the scenes. There are people that cannot do this job and I think they know it's not for them, but I just wanted to put this out there for anyone that was similar to me that was afraid they wouldn't make it in the field even though it's what they really want to do. If you really want it, you can make it, focus on spending time bettering yourself, be it physically or mentally, remember everything is a learning experience, and know your limits. If you're taking too much on or your having trouble processing something, speak about it. Some things you'll see on the job are hard to process when you first start especially things like deaths. Do not be afraid to say that something bothered you, it doesn't make you weak or a worse provider if you do. Me and my partner at work ran a suicide call, it wasn't pretty. When we got back we took some time alone to process everything, then we met up and talked about it. It helped both us handle it, and I believe made us better providers because of how we managed those feelings. You can make it, believe in yourself, always look to grow and become better, and never give up

[@Macabresque]

This is so inspiring, thank you!

[@the_once-and-future_king.]

Word to the wise: Don't be too proud to change career when your tolerance for idiots drops. I got out after 20 years.

[@cotjocky466]

Just left fulltime after 17 years last month. Just can't do it anymore. At least not without a break. I'll reassess in a couple years.

[@andrewkrikorian760]

@@cotjocky466 reassess every couple years if no pulse continue compres....whoops

[@rhoonah5849]

What do you do now?

[@cotjocky466]

@@rhoonah5849 I am wrapping up CDL training. Going to drive truck for a year, two, maybe for several years. I’ll see how I like it. I’m unmarried and have no kids.

[@rhoonah5849]

@@cotjocky466 Good for you and I hope you enjoy it. After 25 years of writing software, I went to EMT school and have been doing it part time/on call for the last 3 years and I love it but I can see how it can wear a person down. Just started fire fighter training too... tough at almost 50. Anyway, good luck again on the new career brother.

[@moselleconger4156]

I’m starting school in Sept to become an Emt (in my 30’s) then immediately going into paramedic courses. I volunteer for a private rescue squad (better pay than the others) in my area currently and now that my kids are older I’m able to go back into the medical field. Great experience so far. I’ve seen some very traumatic resus and intubation situations. Definitely not for everyone.

[@moselleconger4156]

@Linda Soliz You made my day!! A friend of mine, also in her 30’s, is starting classes with me too. So awesome! I wish you the best of luck! People will surely need your services one day. ❤️

[@rhoonah5849]

Good luck to you. I didn't start my EMT training until I was in my mid 40s. Now it's been 3.5 years written my local fire department and I'm starting fire fighter training too. I started going back to school nights for a career change into medical to take a physicians assistant masters program but after 2 classes I realized that it was too much work at this point in my life. I'm a principal software engineer with a degree in electrical engineering and figured I'd ride it out and continue to do the hobbies that I enjoy instead. Taking my books with me on vacation and having zoom meetings was too much. Plus I put too much pressure on myself to get an A in every class. Anyway, good much to you in your training and I hope you love EMS when you graduate.

[@moselleconger4156]

@@rhoonah5849 That’s great!! It’s nice to see that what some would deem late in age training actually isn’t all that uncommon. ❤️ I wish you the best of luck as well!

[@rhoonah5849]

@@moselleconger4156 Thank you much although at my age, I don't consider it to be "late" in age... lol.

[@moselleconger4156]

@@rhoonah5849 not late in age as in “old”….late in age compared to when the average person does continuing education…. Usually right after highschool. 🤣 Hell all of my friends have been set in their careers for years now, not starting their education to begin a career in their 40’s. Not the norm but now I see it’s not completely out of the question. However, almost everyone at the rescue squad I’m at now are much younger than me 😆 😩.

[@fireguy284]

I grew up in the suck it up generation and after 30yrs it definitely took its toll on my mental health. Thankfully our field has combated the problem and started taking mental health seriously. Unfortunately I suffer from PTSD and it almost cost me my marriage and life until I finally got the help I needed. If I had to change anything in my past I would have to say I would have found support earlier after major trauma incidents. Getting help is not a sign of weakness!

[@ba1tertv313]

I used to be super grossed out with bodily fluids. I was concerned about dealing with blood and trauma. First day on the job got blood on me and handled it pretty well. Although one Experience i felt super bad because i was gagging. Poor guy with stomach distention unable to hold an emesis bag was vomiting black tar with bile. Super terrible smell.

[@richardavery511]

As long as the blood is not yours, don't worry

[@XxSINSxX540]

Fdny emt start at $17.63/hr or $35,254 at year 1 with increasing pay to $25.30 or $50,604 after 5 years on the job. Just to put this in perspective i have a buddy who works in chipotle in nyc making 17/hr. Fast food worker deserve their pay because NYC is very expensive to live in. BTW we are roughly doing 4500-5k runs citywide from 0000-2359hrs

[@logalex6745]

I'm cpr certified, had to get it for my last job and never wouldve thought i would ever use that information, I was in a restaurant with some friends and kept overhearing two people at the table next to us. One woman was complaining about some pain or something and the other lady was trying to get her to go to the ER, long story short, she collapsed at the restaurant, she wasn't breathing and she didn't have a pulse. I was able to do chest compressions untill the ambulance arrived, which only took a few minutes luckily, and she ended up being resuscitated and is alive now. After all that happened I knew that's what I wanted to do as a career, amd I'm going to training to be a paramedic

[@TacMedTV]

I've been working EMS for 30 years. First 5 as an EMT, last 25 as a paramedic. My entire career has been on the street. I work for a medium sized suburban and rural service. About 25,000 calls per year. I grumble sometimes, but I do love being a Paramedic. This career field has, and continues, to give me opportunities that would not be possible with any "regular" job. You get out of EMS what you put into it. For the last 16 years I've been a Tactical Paramedic, working with local, state, and federal special operations law enforcement teams. I'm a Community Paramedic, as well. Doing chronic disease management, and preventive medicine. I teach CPR, First Aid, ACLS, PEPP, ITLS, etc. I've taught at medical schools, nursing schools, paramedic schools. I've been a keynote speaker at state level EMS conferences. I've gotten to attend top notch classes like, swift/flat water rescue, dive rescue 1, confined space rescue, high/low angle rescue, etc. I never would've had those opportunities without EMS. It's been good to me. I earn about $60,000/yr. I've never worked more than two EMS jobs at once. If I needed extra money, I would get a part time job doing something completely different, like retail sales. But, dude is correct. EMS ain't for everyone. And that's ok. There's no shame in that. Everyone is different.

[@oliverallen5324]

I’m glad you had a good experience. I’ve been in EMS since 2010, and I’m leaving it behind now.

[@azureander5487]

25000 calls a year is 68 calls in 24 hours, 3-4 calls an hour, no time for sleep, food, etc. That’s fundamentally not possible for a single person unless you’re talking about different shifts and teams collectively.

[@judydoyle1845]

Ive had two ambulance rides due to severe anaphylaxis. I'm want to say how much I respect those serving in this job. I'm so thankful for the care and compassion I received . EMTs and Paramedics, you are the best and loved. Remember that in the hard, discouraging times. Someone is alive because of you.

[@ambar_flames]

In Texas, having an EMT certification is mandatory for career firefighters.

[@jordans1917]

Florida as well

[@MrJonathon08]

Maybe that’s why an EMT’s wage is low. Why hire two departments when one does both jobs.

[@luisarias5939]

California too

[@bkane573]

Wasteful and useless, since an emt cert is just permission to start learning how to do EMS, and has nothing to do with putting the blue stuff on the red stuff.

[@frankies1717]

Connecticut also

[@JanuszPea]

I just had my first extrication the other day, two patients entangled, two trauma alerts, one coded on the stretcher when we got them out of the car. One was flown out on scene the second, the code, was brought to the nearest hospital and later flown out. I still think that one died. Point is, the one that was still responsive will forever remember that as probably the worst day of their life. And it was just one call of several for me that day, so we’ll constantly see people on their worst day and that stuff can wear a person down. I just started my career but I know you gotta be mentally tough in this job and then know it’s ok to not be ok and ask for help if you need it.

[@collinmankin4334]

Wow thank you so much for your service. You seem really humble…

[@mattyp7582]

Give it a couple years. You will either turn into an insensitive prick or become an alcoholic. It’s not about being mentally tough at all. That is a stupid approach. It’s about staying emotionally fit. Process what you deal with in a healthy way and don’t count on your brothers for support. This job has the potential to swallow you up without emotional intelligence.

[@rhoonah5849]

You're so right. I tell people how EMS is tough because we see people on their worst day. Then we go back to the station and see another person on their worst day. The gems that keep me going are when we get to help someone and put a smile on their face.

[@lookingglass9175]

@@mattyp7582 the best comment here brother. Truth

[@Daly831j]

#1 don’t become a medic just to get a fire job, you’ll be a terrible medic and be miserable.

[@mr.j6304]

Everyone hast to be at least a Firefighter EMT unless you stay as a volunteer but I want to be more than a volley

[@mr.j6304]

@Johnny’s Bricks just be a basic certified EMT and do fire fighting and that is all you have to do I'm in the whole process of trying to finish up all my certifications but I have to pay out-of-pocket the one thing I have learned if it's something you desire one thing I have learned is that things are going to happen and they're going to try to slow you down a little bit but never give up keep pressing on and it doesn't matter how long it takes just get get everything done that you need to and don't give up on it

[@rnparimore09]

That's how I did it, and I learned I loved EMS

[@parkersmithson6667]

@Johnny’s Bricks the point being at lest have some sort of interest or passion in being a paramedic. You’re role of a firefighter these days is at least 80% medical. And if you’re strictly only a medic to be a firefighter you’re going to 1. Be a poor paramedic and 2. You might just generally hate the job. But trust me being a medic can be a lot of fun and it’s a great thing to have a paramedic scope of practice under your belt

[@shanem6869]

100% this

[@blackslacks639]

I'm a new EMT, older person second career. After just a couple of weeks I've experienced most of what you have spoken about. Good video.

[@lillianinspace]

I have an anxiety disorder, but I want to help people through EMS. I think it’s one of the coolest things to do in the world. I’m not sure if I should go for it though.

[@s1rm0rr1lswdsx3]

I wouldnt do it, the anxiety bothered me a lot in the field it made me hate work.

[@williewilson2250]

​@@s1rm0rr1lswdsx3I hate anxiety so much dude

[@texmedic865]

If you want to be overworked and underpaid and never have time to see your family or have a social life then EMS is the career for you!

[@keithjackson2035]

And all the glory goes to firemen 🤨

[@caseyreed5231]

Isn’t it 4 on 3 off? Why do you say no family or social life?

[@kasestolte6003]

I’m in EMT class now... national registry test in a few weeks...

[@ckotterman]

Good luck!

[@trentonstout1916]

I just took it about 2 hours ago and it was rough I feel like I failed it but we will see

[@kasestolte6003]

@@trentonstout1916 You know I hear that a lot. People feel they failed but end up passing. I’m sure you got it.

[@liquidbagel4570]

I passed it a while ago… if it stops you super early. It’s either you really sucked, or you did really good. No in between. Most important thing to remember is just relax, take your time, and READ CAREFULLY

[@liquidbagel4570]

Good luck. You got this.

[@masonscott3518]

I’ve been an EMT for four years now and I have three complaints 1.) the money is actually pathetic. I made $10.90 an hour working in an ambulance. Why am I getting paid less than a McDonald’s employee? Doesn’t make any sense. 2.) speaking of money, behind everything you do there’s always a financial or liability situation. Depending where you work, your whole purpose of being there is to help prevent law suits rather than to help patients out of integrity and actually wanting to help people. And if you’re like me and the financial side of things bores you silly it gets pretty tedious pretty fast. Not to mention a lot of patients have to consider money when wanting to be transported and some don’t want to get transported when they probably should which is nauseating. 3.) there is so much god damn documentation. I wish the courses I took told me about how much of the job is documenting. I could go on a 10 minute call and be documenting for almost half an hour. And what’s the purpose of documenting? To prevent lawsuits. Just like everything in this country it’s about money and I’ve always hated it. I know it’s ironic to say everything’s about money when I complained about how much I get paid.

[@50lightsout]

The frequent fliers are the ones that grind my gears. Especially when I’m sleeping

[@ericstone9493]

Literal facts

[@John-cq3hk]

The good old do the 911 AND discharge of a frequent between 0200 and 0600

[@RM-od6hg]

So these so called frequent fliers never should call for help to wake you up while your sleeping?? Sorry you have to get up period to go on calls. These people may have a true emergency and until you respond you can't say they don't. You know what your getting into if you don't like it then quit. Same as going to a false fire alarm at 3 am and getting woke up for that, it's part of the job be paid or volunteer

[@50lightsout]

@@RM-od6hg one it’s industry humor and two what you saying can be true but a lot of people abuse the system and tie up vital resources for their paranoia that could be going to someone having a true emergency. Some people just don’t care about others or truly evaluate their situation. No dept will say this but it’s facts. They look at fire/rescue as their servants because we’re the only people that’ll put up it in society cause we have to. They don’t pull that shit anywhere else cause people won’t pay them attention.

[@ECSH0315]

@RM-od6hg Some people abuse the ambulance system and are known by name by EMS personnel. They even try to use the ambulance as their private taxi and jump out when they decide they no longer need medical help. I think those are the types he's referring to when he says "frequent flyers". And they do irritate EMS when they KNOW it's not a real emergency. Especially when it takes away staff from real emergencies.

[@notroutaboutitfishing9361]

I submitted my volunteer firefighter application yesterday morning! I’ve recently discovered your channel, and I really appreciate the informative content you provide! Thanks man!

[@damaribrackett1159]

Hey how’s your process going if I may ask

[@leanneroesler9321]

Being a Paramedic is the best job ever. 31 year medic and still loving my job. It isnt easy, alot of times it is very frustrating, but the good outweighs the bad.

[@jettywetty9398]

What do you like about it

[@leanneroesler9321]

I like being the one that can control the chaos on a scene. Some scenes can be very overwhelming to alot of people, but I thrive in that environment. It is more than just the "helping people" that alot of medics say. Because trust me, most people you run on are not societies best. It's being able to be outside and be away from an office environment, the ambulance is my office. Being able to identify and diagnose, and treat Accordingly, it's very satisfying to see a patient improve because of your treatments. I work in a rural area, with anywhere from 10-60+ minute transport times. We can literally save lives and treat patients, it's not a scoop and run and you're in the hospital in 2 minutes. EMS is it's own special group of people. We are closer to eachother than sometimes our own family members. It is a very close nit world.

[@mourningwarblers5863]

I knew a dear veteran who'd been a medic. Later he became a paramedic but suffered from ptsd. Ultimately he became a plumber and enjoyed the problem-solving involved.

[@livingyourbestlife711]

been in service now for many years. Everything you said is spot on, brother! We certainly do not do this for the pay. I have other side hustles that help me get the nicer things in life. So, it is a "god-given" call for those that do this - I'm not talking about doing IFTs or other transports, I'm referring to actual medical/trauma calls such as MVAs or cardiac arrests, accidental deep lacerations or dismembered limbs, GSWs at 3am, stabbings on the neck, etc. Do this because you love it (or think you will). Thanks for sharing, brother.

[@jamierodrigues5784]

You nailed it with this video of caution. I worked 13 years as an Advanced Care and just took stress leave a month ago. Sadly, my workplace looked down on me (which was a complete surprise btw) but this was the best decision I've ever made!

[@AngelaLovesJesus-qr4ig]

Wow Jamie so sad but you deserve better on to better things

[@jonpigeon7629]

I’m going into EMT training in a few days, I wanna get into this field to do two things, I wanna help people I want to make people’s day a whole lot better. Another thing is to really make an entry point into studying medicine

[@thac0twenty377]

how did it go? 《medic 18 yrs

[@TheathrillExperiance]

Another one I think should be mentioned is if you can’t move on from a call to another. This is one of the few jobs where you can go from doing CPR on a baby to picking up drunk joe on the sidewalk and be getting yelled at for no reason. I always tell new emts and paramedics if you have a call where you need a breather after take it because you need to leave the call with the call and move on.

[@josettesantana5169]

Being prior FDNY EMT I can tell you our pay sucked when I came on and it sucks now. I started at just $14 and hr and retired with just $20 an hr due to shift diff, and that was after almost 12 yrs in. I did privates before and after FDNY and I will tell you I started at $11 and hr in the first private company and made just a dollar and a half more in the second private before I finally ended working. I did the job cause I loved it and I had the backbone for it but the stuff that we suffer after we stop working is something I wish for no one. Thank you for doing this video for this is just an eye opener for the new generations to come.

[@77gravity]

I am really enjoying this channel, it has great lessons and information, thank you. Subscribed just now. (11 year volunteer firefighter, Australia)

[@iresqu713]

My one soul piece of advise is be careful who you talk to. We all need to decompress and talk about what we see/do. Your spouse may not be that person, your parents may not be, your friends may not be. Gauge these situations carefully. Some may not understand the psychological trauma, others may not understand the gallows humor that i promise you will develop. I told my wife day one after my first really bad call. “I can tell you everything or tell you nothing about what i see/do, there cant be a half way point” and we may that decision together on which it would be. Just really be conscious on who you share your traumas and your humorous experiences with

[@blakslee720]

Regarding your point about seeing and dealthing with nasty and emotional situations, it reminds me of something one of my teachers said in Fire 1. Everyone has a sponge, some people have smaller sponges than others and that's ok. Almost everyone will need to talk to a professional at some point in their career, whether is a Critical Incident Stress Debrief or routinely seeing a therapist 1 on 1. Maybe you can do this your whole life, maybe you need to quit after 5 years cause you've seen too much shit. And it's ok. If you're on the fire ground and you need a break, tell someone, take that break, cause otherwise we might wind up having to drag your ass out of the building. After a tough call, or any call, talk to someone. If you put those demons in a bottle on the back shelf, they will eventually fall out the cabinet and make a mess in your kitchen.

[@sixtytooze4746]

I carried my paramedic certification for 23 years and let it lapse 4 years ago. Just a fireman now. It definitely can weigh on you. Many departments don't treat there EMS that well. They eat them up and spit them out.

[@sebby324]

Here in the UK paramedics barely get paid above minimum wage

[@AirForceKrissy]

This video is very accurate. I’m an NEMT which is another branch of the medical transportation field. I can firmly say with confidence that EMT’s and Paramedics should definitely get paid more. I spoke with an EMT and Paramedic as we were both on scene a couple weeks ago and they both were asking about switching to my position which is less traumatic. They both said that they actually hate their jobs because they don’t get paid for what they go through day in and out. The EMS guy made $15 h/r and the Paramedic didn’t even know how much he made because they only deposit his money but he still doesn’t know if he’s hourly or salary. I want to transfer into the EMS field but but I think I’m good being an NEMT for now!

[@BobbNaef]

I was stabbed in the chest on a call in 1991 since then I have a perimeter around me my partner and patient. Chest tubes hurt when they are inserted.

[@TheQwik512]

Can verify chest tubes are painful, I had three over the course of two years for Spont Pneumos when I was in my 20's.

[@michaelfuchs7115]

I would add to your first point, a good medic also knows their weaknesses and not to let their ego interfere for what’s best for the patient, and how to mitigate those weaknesses (and ego) through good team management. Fantastic video.

[@littlehuey5679]

35 yrs medic , toddlers and babies were my Achilles heal ! Luckily I only had a few !

[@cortcort8043]

Just started working as a fresh EMT. Start FTO next week. Just because you get your certification, and the job you wanted the learning doesn't stop.

[@kaisalis7895]

It never stops.

[@cmcer1995]

I was an EMT Basic on a small all volunteer rural ambulance service for about 5+ years back in 1978. My weakness was about lungers and large nasal blood clots after being packed. I also worked as an RN for 34 years and those two were always difficult but, you deal with it just part of the job. Back then we didn't always have a protective facial barrier for CPR handy so doing mouth to mouth on a patient that just vomited was also very unpleasant. But you just do it, rarely thank God. There are always those runs that you never forget for various reasons because we are all human beings and dealing with these tragedies can be emotionally taxing. But it does help to talk about them with someone else that can handle the discussion. Already too long here so I will stop there.

[@harrykeel8557]

I just had to take a early retirement because my back could no longer handle the work. For eight years I worked for a private service. I did it because I had a talent to help people in a time of need. But over the years I tended to get on the edge at times, especially dealing with repeat customers. The last two and a half years I did PT transfers from the hospital I worked at to either home or a different facility. The worst thing is I finally hit fifteen dollars a hour and there goes my back. I agree with your comments, and the newbies better buckle up, cause they are in for a ride. I always told the newbies especially after a code, CPR is for the family, because getting the PT back is doubtful. Especially if you are going into a rural area, where travel time is important. I am so glad I found this channel. Keep up the great work. Stay safe!

[@MrJonathon08]

I’ll be taking an EMT course at my community college this fall!

[@pimmyflores8739]

Lol. You'll get burnt out. Not from the bad ass trauma calls or cardiac arrests or intubations. You'll have to deal with frequent flyers, homeless, bed bugs, drug seekers, fat people and terrible wages....not to mention, the divorce rate is way up there because of the things I said above. Gwt your nursing or get out of the field completely.

[@kaisalis7895]

Don't listen to pimmy, he's an negative Nancy who couldn't hack it. My best advice is to take it one day at a time, stay away from bad coping mechanisms like alcohol and tobacco, and always speak up if you're unsure about something or have questions. You'll do just fine

[@pimmyflores8739]

@@kaisalis7895 lmfao. No, more like we cater to the frequent flyers and take people to the hospital who do not need to go and then they yell at the nurses and staff because the wait is 3 hours long. I'm being real. Bro, if you want a realistic view on ems, do a ride along. For every 1 awesome cardiac arrest/trauma/overdose/shooting, you are gonna get 100 BS calls

[@kaisalis7895]

@@pimmyflores8739 I'm already full-time EMS 🙄

[@pimmyflores8739]

@@kaisalis7895 me saying you should do a ride along was for the original post @Jonathon Espinoza I have 4 years ems. 1 as an emt and 3 as a medic

[@rebausa4867]

My recent experience needing 911 help will never leave me. EMTs treated me & Mr. with bully tactics. I have experienced blackouts from stress for the first time in my entire life. These men were more than rude. Fix that. Fix the burnouts ~ former ICU nurse!!!!!!

[@udaymuhammad2851]

Love your vids for a upcoming firefighter this helps a lot!

[@brandonurban9537]

Honestly… kinda don’t know how you’ll act till you are in it. This video is great. But if you’re on the fence give it a go

[@micke6705]

if you want to get started in ems as an emt, get started early. Learn as much as you can before starting school

[@alanwood5857]

I'm a former EMT (injured), I'd advise to not have a mindset that you are going to save the world if you consider entering the field.

[@dougmyers8767]

I'm a certified EMR for my small town fire department. Everyone on the department is a volunteer so we are definitely not going to get monetarily rich but we still feel blessed to serve our community.

[@marcavila8410]

In California it’s almost mando to be a paramedic to be a firefighter lol

[@iliasarroyo]

That’s the way it feels

[@mateosnowball7707]

Same in florida

[@mattyp7582]

I searched high and low to find a dept that hired BLS FF’s. Best job ever! A little O2, strip a line and play IV pole and back to the barn. Save the medics some chow

[@ElGaby323]

Not paramedic, you just have to be a licensed EMT

[@millertime4175]

I agree with all your points in the video and add if you can’t handle hunger, sleep deprivation, long hours away from family, and working weekends/holidays, this is not the job for you.

[@ThaYoungChad]

Speaking about the 1st reason if you aren't taking control of the situation and/or confident, EMT isn't for you. I mean can't you learn to be like that? I'm sure a lot of newbies aren't going to be exactly confident and become a strong leader day 1. I figured you'll have to learn to become one the more you do the job.

[@JanuszPea]

Yea, it takes time. Once you figure out what you’re doing, then you have to be able to step up. No one expects you to be the one running shots your first day. But eventually you’ll figure it out. And if a year or two in you’re still afraid to take the lead if need be, especially if your an EMT and your medic is working something critical, then yes, maybe you need to look at something else. And there’s nothing wrong with that. Not everyone can be an EMT or paramedic or a firefighter. Just like not everyone can be a teacher or a salesmen.

[@zfjames]

That's what he says if you watch the video

[@doordieace5high]

Even though I wouldn't want to work in your field, I highly respect everything you said here. I'm a butcher, so I could say there's a handful of reasons not to go into my field either for most people too. Especially when you said one can't be a paramedic and extremely squeamish; it's very similar when handling large sections of meat. Biggest difference, though, is you EMTs are always dealing with emergencies and I still never heard of someone needing steak or meat being an emergency where I work. Lol.

[@shutupsebas]

lol

[@JesusTorres-zu8wz]

Im an FDNY emt and we start off at $18.50 an hour. It’s still shit pay for the cost of living over here.

[@rosemadder5547]

That's to start though. As you advance and stay, it goes up. No one starts at the top. Also, how are your benefits? Ours in Tennessee are amazing.

[@JesusTorres-zu8wz]

@@rosemadder5547 it doesn’t go up by alot. They also take out half of our gross pay in deductions and taxes. Not to mention the cost of living in NYC is insane.

[@JesusTorres-zu8wz]

@@rosemadder5547 As far as benefits go, we pretty much get basic healthcare coverage with copays, a shit life insurance ($25,000), Retirement after 25 years (No overtime is included when paying into pension).. It ain’t all sunshine and rainbows here. Only good thing is job security and the promotion to paramedic and firefighter.

[@jacefinley2357]

Being an EMT/Paramedic will change your perception of death and grief. It won't happen instantly, and you won't notice it while it's happening - but one day you'll be faced with the death of your own loved one and find yourself no longer the same person you were before getting into this field. You'll grieve differently than your family. and it can make you feel alone or weird. I think it's a coping mechanism we develop after seeing rough things on the job. It's hard to describe. I also do not think it is necessarily a bad thing, but people looking to get into this field should be aware that you will change as a person - even if ever so slightly - and you might not even realize it's happening.

[@yaroldimanzano2199]

By the third arrest I worked it was weird for me "feel" the no presence of the soul in the body. Maybe I'm crazy, but at that point I am just working a biological object. Once I see that "black moon" (remember the eyes) I can tell.

[@walkingrevival1]

I’ve always wondered why that is. EMT, paramedics, y’all are saving peoples lives. And don’t get paid what they should at all. I hate that thought.

[@shanem6869]

My partner and I have an agreement. He takes any eyeball incident. I can take all the others.

[@blinkeredmist1251]

Amazing, i can handle anything but an eyeball😂

[@PrincessPeyten]

I’ve always been fascinated by this kind of stuff because I’ve been in and out of the hospital my whole life been in ambulances numerous times but I’ve always wanted to go on a ride along but I heard it might cause nightmare’s but I would still love to go on a ride along🚑🚑🚑

[@capriles45]

90% of 911 is the local intoxicated patient. It's important to remember that you won't get the "guts and glory" and see the hardcore trauma every day, and sometimes, it will be rare depending on the district you're in

[@andynonymous6769]

Yeah, I was told only 20-30% of calls in my city are actual medical emergencies

[@lookingglass9175]

@@andynonymous6769 I would venture to say it is less

[@rossnunn4264]

Being an emt, paramedic, or firefighter sucks. 3 of the worse jobs in the world. Don’t ever get any of these jobs. I’m an emt and I regret it 100%

[@rhoonah5849]

The last point is so true. Just took a woman to hospital for knee pain. Ridiculous. Nothing life threatening about that. I had to respond from home too to take our second ambulance since the duty crew was out on another call. People really do abuse 911 especially if they are in state insurance since the tax papers eats the cost of the transport.

[@GROC1101]

Became an EMT during covid. Couldn’t get rides because of Covid restrictions so my first day on the job was the first day I’d ever been in an ambulance. I was sweating bullets but the more experience I see the better I feel I’m mostly just nervous of making a mistake with a patient due to inexperience. One advice I can give private ambulance SUCKS.

[@kaisalis7895]

Always ask your FTO questions, or speak up if you're unsure about it. Take notes and observe. Private ambulance is what you make of it, some companies better than others

[@GROC1101]

@@kaisalis7895 yeah I recently got into one that is much better it’s way smaller than the others I’ve been in but these guys are more tight knit…just making a living waiting through fire hiring process

[@mstoj1386]

I am working as an EMT before stepping into nursing school. The pay and abuse are dogshit, but it will help me gain a lot of knowledge in the ER department as an RN.

[@DeltaFoxtrotWhiskey3]

We had a crew that responded to the local jail for a CPR and found the patient laying in a massive sewage spill from a broken pipe. The patient was covered in it, and a good bit of it had been cooked onto the patient by the jail clinic nurses who defibrillated him while he was still in the standing water/sewage.

[@iliasarroyo]

Shawshankredemption esq

[@mikefargo4339]

The California Fire Service requires an EMT certification as a minimum and most departments (like mine) that provide ALS, only hire Paramedics.

[@spilledmaxdog9567]

while 6 years really isn't much experience, it's awful. Working for privates and a relatively slow combination department has made me realize my free time and family are FAR more important, and that you can work in public safety and make much more money and have a semi-normal life. Which is why I'm starting the process of getting out ( of ems at least ). This doesn't mean all of it isn't rewarding.. sometimes. its really a job you have to do for a few years before you know if its for you or not.

[@anthonyd7659]

The smell would really get me and bugs too. But I’ve dealt with things like that with animals, since once at a farm I was staying at had dogs attack the sheep and one of them barely survived the attack. It’s not so much seeing the worms crawling around, it’s the sound of them crawling that got me shivers up my spine. Had to call 911 when my roommate overdosed about 10 years ago. And I’ve dealt first hand with a lot of stuff that EMTs and paramedics need to deal with. I think I’d be a good fit for the job. I don’t expect myself to like it. I do have a passion for this kind of work although I’ve only experienced a little bit of this kind of stuff and animals aren’t comparable to people having the same issues. Thanks for this info.

[@ericharrison6418]

Eyeball injuries got me. Life, limb, no problem, eyesight……I can live through the worst of the worst but eyeballs just get me.

[@laur.michelle]

what do you do to cope? i'm starting courses in the spring and i love medicine and helping people but i also have sm trouble with eyeballs

[@ericharrison6418]

@ immerse yourself in it. Watched a cataract surgery yesterday. Also it’s kind of rare to get an injury ONLY to the eye so ….dont become an optical surgeon I guess. In medic and nursing we were just taught to shield/protect/cover the eye until further care could be implemented.

[@laur.michelle]

@@ericharrison6418 good advice and thank you for sharing your experience!! immersing is how i found i was super interested in EMT. got tired of being squeamish and now I'm setting myself up to spend w these amazing first responders! thank you for the work you do!

[@pissedoffsquid]

If you aren't comfortable with touching other people, definitely not for you. When it comes to a lot of calls (especially trauma), you need to be okay with uncomfortable situations. A lot of times, you need to do a thorough physical examination of your patient to make sure you're not missing any life threats.

[@wolfpackstudiosnjrotccadet2617]

I want to be aemt or wilderness ems or park ranger/some type of wilderness law

[@heidistrecht9771]

All great points. I think the only thing missed was having the ability to have tough skin when people, including other medical staff (who know better)call you an ambulance driver or "transportation". It's really hard to not let that burrow beneath your skin.

[@swanoflove6833]

it's crazy to think people who are the first to save lives under stress are so much less paid than someone that can throw a ball.. this country is so backwards

[@giocortz5871]

That’s how it is not just in this country but in the entire world. Athletes bring millions in revenue because millions of people across the globe consume their product. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, it is the reality of it.

[@John-cq3hk]

Whem I think about becoming a paramedic (10 year AEMT) I get excited THEN I get sad because every paramedic I know ,that has a family, is working 96 hours a week. I feel sad about working that much...

[@caseyreed5231]

Is it by choice for more money or or is it required by employer?

[@John-cq3hk]

@@caseyreed5231 by choice definitely. Usually standard about 48 hour work week . Some comoany offer a lot of OT lol

[@delriv5238]

30yr intercity paramedic here. Just my opinion, your opinion may vary. Stay as far from EMS as possible. The mental wear and tear are not worth it. Look around and see how many paramedics you see that are in their 40’s and 50’. Wait until you see how you’re treated if you get hurt on the job. Pay is terrible, a lot of other jobs pay better without the mental and physical strain. Do you want to get paid enough to survive or paid enough to thrive? Treated like crap on a regular basis. Don’t do it. End rant.

[@wapopapo1576]

Im an Aemt in Las Vegas. Confidence is the biggest facter. If you're freaking out, your patient will too.

[@samrobertson7075]

That last one hurt me 😅. Frequent flyers at 3 Am are hard to like.

[@michaelschafer7816]

Was tired of garbage pay only making 1800 a check to work everyday. I went into private contracting as a medic (non combat) and now I'm making six figures.

[@FROGMEDIC]

EMS 9-1-1 is utilized primarily for calls that are not classified as emergent. However, part of our job is to provide compassion and treat the pt as if our spouse, parent, sibling, co-worker. It’s a BIG deal for them! Remember that! It’s not about us…it’s all for them. No judgement. When you do get a call that is serious, it could be anything really messy or missing or DOA. But by far the worst calls are DUI! Why? Totally preventable! You need a tough “shell” to weather the calls (all of them) and then be able to shift gears and let down when you return to the station with your crew and vent. 33 years in as a woman F/F&MEDIC. ALWAYS…for the victim or patient…always! It’s THEIR crisis!

[@mtt9772]

The pros: -Job satisfaction / making a difference / serving your community -Job security -Driving lights and sirens (depends on the person, but fun for most) -Can be a bridge to other healthcare professions -Not being in an office, having a long leash -You don’t have to work on an ambulance or ER, EMTs and Paramedics are starting to be used in different healthcare settings The cons: -Low pay -Bad benefits(depends where you work, but in my experience most benefits offered by EMS companies are laughably bad if they are provided at all) -Hard on the body, lots of back injuries -Frequent flyers/bad patients (healthcare workers are more likely to be assaulted than prison/jail guards) -Burnout and compassion fatigue

[@jelracer98]

Indianapolis had this one time the guy made it to Chicago and crashed and the tow truck was towing it back and a guy ran a red light and hit the ambulance knocking it off the tow truck onto a car killing the driver . that is why they went to a system that they can leave their trucks running and take the keys out and if you step on the break pedal the truck shuts off

[@MikePalmerNY5]

Make sure you think that if or when you need to be transporated to the hosptial! Something to think about!

[@paulolson9191]

I agree with every bit of that, you're doing great work.

[@JACKTHEJACKMAN]

Sadly being in Florida, the state law requires you to be certified as a EMT

[@cjcj5050]

What?

[@SwissArmyDud]

Sadly? What do you mean sadly? All states should require you to be certified

[@daveyboy_]

@@SwissArmyDud that's FLA . and FLA citizens for you .

[@SwissArmyDud]

@@daveyboy_ lol a florida man. I actually got my EMT-B in Florida, maybe he means something else

[@bkane573]

Wasteful and useless, since an emt cert is just permission to start learning how to do EMS, and has nothing to do with putting the blue stuff on the red stuff. More over, it violates the national standard model which the entire EMS system is based on. FFs should be trained at the level of an EMR. EMTs are the trained professionals that show up on the ambulance, paid or volunteer.

[@lookingglass9175]

My best year as a paramedic was during year 22 on the job while I was out on an work related injury. Then I had to go back to work.

[@NpgSymboL]

When people vomit or poop in the ambulance who cleans in up? The paramedic? Or someone else? Like a cleaner?

[@bestworst1979]

this right here needs to be the standard interview before they ever apply for this job

[@nickferrari413]

2 emt tragedies you reminded me of that happened to people little younger than me about 10 years ago. A minor overdosing and a minor paralyzing pool injury