Careers in the Emergency Medical Services remain attractive for one key reason: job security. EMS careers are some of the only ones that don’t come with a level of uncertainty. There will always be roles up for grabs, and once you’ve landed your first job, you’re probably only going to leave of your own accord.
It’s a great idea for anyone looking to embark on a career change – or for students who are interested in genuine career opportunities – but how do you know if it’s right for you? As stable as these jobs are, they come with some significant complications.
Can You Cope With The Intense Situations?
Don’t underestimate the emotional side of an EMS career. You’ll spend your time in ambulances dealing with some extremely horrific stuff. We’re talking open wounds, traumatic injuries, and sometimes even death. Then you have to cope with other people’s emotions – like a family member having a panic attack as you try to help their loved one.
Nothing prepares you for a job like this, and it will be incredibly intense and emotionally draining. The only way to know if you can cope is by experiencing it first-hand. Look out for EMS ride-along opportunities that put you on the front line and give you a taster of what this life is like. If you manage to stay calm and handle the intense situations, then that’s a great sign. If not, it likely isn’t the right job for you.
Are You Able To Work Tough Schedules?
Have you worked before? If so, you’re likely used to a classic 9-5 schedule, or maybe you work in shifts. Either way, no job is similar to an EMS career in terms of scheduling. You may have to deal with the following:
- 12-hour shifts
- Night shifts
- Emergency on-call shifts
It is borderline impossible to work a job like this if you can’t be as flexible as possible. Those of you who enjoy a strict routine should cast it from your minds immediately. This job only suits people who are willing to adopt the ultimate flexibility and can handle being called out at any moment.
Can You Handle Physical Work?
Of course, don’t forget about the physical side of an EMS job. It’s not just a case of riding in an ambulance or pressing buttons on an X-ray machine. No matter what type of career you choose in the Emergency Medical Services field, it will involve physical labor.
Whether that means moving heavy machinery around, picking up patients, or anything else – don’t pursue this career if you can’t handle physical work. It’s an especially bad career choice for people with underlying medical conditions, particularly those with chronic pain. Know your limits and consider if your body can cope with the physical demands this job brings.
EMS careers aren’t suitable for everyone – and that’s okay. There’s no shame in analyzing this career and realizing it’s not right for you. It’s a lot better than spending money pursuing this career, undergoing years of training, and then finding out the hard way that it’s not a good job choice. Think long and hard before signing up for any courses or applying for jobs – if you can handle the mental and physical strain, as well as cope with the scheduling demands, than there’s no reason you won’t find success here.
