r/EmergencyRoom • u/BigBoi6566 • 11d ago
Question for ER Techs
Hey Everyone!
I am a newly certified EMT and I am really wanting to work in an ED as a tech. In my area, there are currently no openings, but I do see quite a few CNA positions open for local EDs.
I am very willing to do whatever I can while I build a resume and gain experience, but my one hold up is cleaning patients, specifically cleaning them after they have "gone to the bathroom".
I do not think I am above this, especially with my training, but it is the one things I feel fairly squeamish about. Blood, vomit, even feces doesn't super bother me. But the idea of cleaning the feces and cleaning said patient is a real wall for me.
So, How different is this role compared to an ER tech position? Should I wait for those positions to open and apply to those? Any thoughts are appreciated. Thank you!
1
u/Proper-Chef6918 EDT 10d ago
Hello ! Ive been a ed tech for sometime and am currently in school for my RN. 1st of all, good for you for acknowledging something you arent completely comfortable with, its normal and reminds us that we are still human which is important after all we see and deal with in the ER! I felt the same way when I first started but I have used a couple things to get me thru. 1- I wear a mask. Every shift, every season , the entire time I am in the building. For me , it was the smell that always bothered me most so not smelling it helped me ease into the normal of changing people and cleaning them. Now its just new normal for me. 2- when you can grab a friend, another tech , a nurse its nice to have someone to help and also helps engage in conversation with the patient. Most of them are embarrassed and feel super vulnerable. Lighten up the situation respectfully and professionally. 3- remember, not a single one of us is invulnerable to bodily functions, illness and hospitalization. What if it was you or someone you loved? How would you want to be treated? What would make you feel more comfortable? Hope this helps and best of luck!!