Rugby74 Posted December 1, 2008 Posted December 1, 2008 I am an older potential career changer as well, but I don't want to put the cart before the horse. Wouldn't it be a logical step for Stretcher81 to first go the local community college and take Chem, A&P, Microbiology, etc... - THEN decide if he wants to enter EMS or perhaps another medical profession?
crotchitymedic1986 Posted December 1, 2008 Posted December 1, 2008 I wouldnt recommend the classes first angle. I think it would be more productive to ride third on the ambulance, if someone will let him, as that will go much farther towards showing him what the job is really all about (good and bad), and give him the chance to interract with real people on the field. He can ace his AP class, and still hate the career.
Rugby74 Posted December 1, 2008 Posted December 1, 2008 Ok..ride a few nights with EMS, then take take Chem, A&P, Microbiology, etc.....
Eydawn Posted December 1, 2008 Posted December 1, 2008 There's things to be said for both approaches. If one had no exposure to EMS I would say that a few rides might be beneficial. However, since the OP has interacted with EMS before I would say that the rides aren't the important part, figuring out if he can actually hack medicine itself is. I mean hell, I rode 3rd rider for how long before I got into the field... guess what... it didn't teach me much. Dear OP: If you really want to be an educated paramedic and have a yen for really understanding what you're doing, enroll in A and P, basic bio, basic chem, microbiology, sociology, psychology and English composition. Then get into the paramedic track. They'll probably have you take the EMT-B class first as part of it. Don't get lulled into thinking you could go out and get paid for it right then and there... you'll get trapped at the lower level and find yourself frustrated with not being able to fully practice medicine. Make sure any program you do includes a long internship where you are practicing physical skills and learning to control your scene as a lead medical provider. I agree... go talk to the EMS folks at your local college. But no matter what you do, take the A and P, psych and English comp. Those three will help you immensely in terms of understanding the human body, the human mind, and how to write your trip sheets effectively. Wendy CO EMT-B
Recommended Posts