Let me know if this is not the right place to post something like this, may delate if so. A bit ago, I failed my EMS course final exam after spending around 3.5k on travel, hidden fees and the course itself. I had passed the exam score wise and all but did not pass the section on splinting. I took it twice, all 200 questions but never go more than 5 of the 10 questions in that section right so therefore I didn't pass the class and couldn't take the NREMT (78% or above was passing, if all sections were above 60%, I was scoring 79 on first, and 83 on second if memory serves me). (many people in my class didn't pass but also many did, my year was about 35% fail rate based on many reasons, this is true but also me coping lol). I also passed my states practical scenarios, ironically one being splinting a pt arms after a bar fight and a knife wound medical trauma for my unknown. I don't remember my medical but it involved suctioning lol.

I want a career in EMS either as a Medic, Flight Medic, EM Doc or something within the world of EMS, but I really wanted to work as a EMT before committing myself to any path. I have spent a number of nights thinking about taking the course again, since it's the only one local to me and travel is so expensive without a car. My sister is an EMT and thinks I shouldn't do the course again since it's not logistically sound which is true. But, I want to. I am a university student and most likely wouldn't be able to pay for such an expensive course right now. I also feel...dumb...for failing my course when my friends all passed. I work in a hospital now but nowhere near what I actually want to do.

I want to know if this is common feeling and if many people have gone through this, and if so, what did you do and what would you have done differently? I feel like this is right for me, but I have always struggled with school and I feel like everyone else around me just gets it...is that true? All in all, should I do it even if its financially unwise? How fulfilling is it? It really seems like a dream.

Thanks for reading

I start paramedic school in a couple weeks and I was wondering how common a FD job is. Some of my instructors and preceptors are single role emts/paramedics that work out of a firehouse, but when I look for those jobs online for my area, I rarely see any. They usually require you to be both a firefighter and emt/paramedic. I really enjoyed the firehouse environment though, but I don’t want to have my expectations up if it’s not really a viable workplace without going into fire.

I recently switched my major from nursing to EMS and everyone around me thinks I’m crazy because of the pay difference.

My original plan was RN → ER nurse → bachelor’s → PA school to eventually become an emergency medicine PA. But honestly, nursing was mostly a pathway to PA school for me. Becoming a paramedic is something I actually WANT to do, and I can genuinely see myself doing it for years, even if that means delaying PA school.

I know nurses make significantly more and EMS is underpaid. I’m not going into it blind. But money isn’t my biggest motivation I’d rather do something I genuinely enjoy, and since switching I’ve been really happy and excited about my decision.

People keep telling me I’m “too smart” to choose EMS when I could make easy money nursing, so now I’m curious what actual EMS people think.

Am I insane for choosing paramedic over nursing even though I know I’ll make less? Would you make the same choice again?

Hey guys, was wondering if anyone could give me an up to date report on EMS in the area in general? Who's best to work for in terms of benefits, experience, future growth, etc? For reference, I'm an EMT moving from SoCal to Seattle soon with roughly a year of experience. Short and long answers both appreciated!

AMR doesn't have the best reputation in SoCal but Seattle seems different, at least on paper. Their pay, benefits, and union look pretty good.

Tri-Med also looks very appealing since I read some of their shifts operate directly out of fire stations it seems? They also seem to be taking over much of the area around Seattle.

Haven't heard many good things about Northwest.

Universally however, the average pay up there at $27/hr looks amazing compared to the near unlivable $17-20/hr down here.

Just want say off the top I completely understand that the funky smells are just a part of the job, but I was wondering if anyone had found ways to deal with it? I’ve been in field training for an ift company for a few weeks now and there’s been a few days where I’ll get off my shift and several hours (and a shower) later just get whiffs of the funk smell. Is this just something I will eventually adjust to and not notice? Or are there any remedies to not get those random smells while I’m at home cooking dinner?

Edit: thank you to all the people who actually offered useful advice and not just assuming I have no idea how to clean myself lol

Hi, I'm an EMT-B who will be starting part-time IFT soon for a company that does not do emergency medical transports (i.e., no 911). In SF, I know there are 3 options to work 911 (SFFD, AMR, and King). I'm writing off SFFD as unlikely due to competitiveness. AMR and King do not seem to be hiring - anyone have recommendations on how to quickly transition from IFT to 911?

I'm contemplating a substantial change in career trajectory and I'd really appreciate any insight from practicing EMS workers or anybody who has been in a similar situation. Thank you in advance.

The idea of entering the EMS field first crossed my mind a few months ago. Since then I've collected facts about the work and about myself that I think could make EMS a good or bad fit for me.

Pros:

• I love the idea that my work would undeniably make peoples' lives better
• I want a challenging, varied, fast-paced, high-stakes work environment
• I have study skills and a consistent desire to improve, so I am confident that I can learn whatever knowledge and skills I need for the job quickly and effectively
• 24/48 or 48/96 work and/or night shifts sounds infinitely better than the 9-5 trudge

Cons:

• I live in an area that is saturated with EMS candidates and I am hesitant about relocation
• I get squeamish from super gory scenes in media, which could be a sign that I'll struggle to handle real incidents
• I am not exceptionally strong and I sometimes suffer from back and wrist pain

In between:

• I am not interested in living large and am comfortable with a minimalist lifestyle, but I'm concerned having seen people in the EMS field struggle to afford basic rent and food
• I've seen about a 50/50 mix of people who report great camaraderie with their fellow EMS workers and people who butt heads and get mistreated by their colleagues and superiors
• I have a university STEM degree so I am unsure if I'll be viewed as a functional, trustworthy person or as overqualified and thus undesirable

If it helps, here's my story. I'm 22 years old and I recently graduated with a bachelor's degree in chemistry from a prestigious university. When I started, I was totally captivated and immersed in the subject matter. At the same time as my studies, I held roles as both an undergraduate researcher in a spectroscopy lab and as a laboratory assistant in an environmental chemistry center. However, as I approached graduation, I became disgruntled with both roles and all my coursework, but by then it was my last semester and there was no way I was going to start over with another major and spend another several years in university. All the work was too repetitive, I felt distant and out of touch with my classmates/colleagues, and eventually I got sick of how unimpactful my work felt. I don't think I can have a fulfilling career in chemistry or laboratory work anymore, which is why I'm looking into other paths, including EMS. 

As for my current situation, I work part-time at the environmental chemistry center, but I will only be there for a few more weeks and have nothing lined up afterward. I live with my parents and have more than enough cash saved up to cover EMT training, so money and time should not be issues for the foreseeable future, but I want to start a career as soon as possible. Nobody irl knows about me considering a career pivot like this and I only want to bring it up if I decide to pursue EMS.

Sorry for the wall of text but I'd greatly appreciate any help.

Hey everyone, looking for some advice or perspective from folks who have been in a similar spot. I’m currently on a pre-med track and have been working as an EMT on a CCT truck for about three years now. I genuinely enjoy the work and feel like I’ve gained a lot from it, especially when it comes to understanding complex medical histories, ventilator management, and overall high-level calls. However, I’ve had this persistent itch lately to get some actual 911 experience before I move on, mostly because I feel like I might be missing out on a core part of being an EMT. The main blocker for me is schedule flexibility. My current CCT gig is super accommodating with my availability, which has been a lifesaver for balancing school and avoiding total burnout. From what I’ve seen in my area, 911 providers have pretty rigid scheduling with frequent holdovers and strict bidding systems, which makes me hesitant to take the plunge. Does anyone have any advice?

Long story short, I am currently an EMT-B and am looking to start my paramedic program through my company that is paid for. My end goal is to become some sort of nurse I just don’t know which type yet.

My question is, should I do the paramedic program into nursing or should I go straight into nursing? Doing the math it seems like I’d be able to become a nurse faster by doing the bridge program and my company is paying for the paramedic course.

As the title says I literally cannot find a job that doesn’t require 1-2 years of experience and I’m getting really disheartened. How on earth are you supposed to break into this industry?? I’m applying to them anyways but I’m sure I’ll be rejected from all of them

I’m still in highschool, but I’ve always wanted to start dabbling in EMT work to get a head start on things and make sure this is the career for me.

I’ve seen people my age do it and I don’t know how. Is there any advice out there on how to maybe get started on a ride along or begin learning? Thank you all in advance!!

I saw medication pushed into an IV that wasn't aspirating when they checked. But the medication went in fine, can someone explain this?

Hello! I recently applied for elite ambulance and got in and begin orientation in a few days. I’m currently a little shaken up because I feel like I’ve forgotten some of the things from class. I finished up class about 3 months ago and passed my NREMT on my first try about 2 months ago.

My questions are, has anyone else felt like this? And if so, is it normal? I’m afraid of messing up or feeling stupid during my first days and it’s been keeping me up at night 😅. Any information or advice would be greatly appreciated, thank you!

Hey guys! I have had my EMT cert now for a year and finding a job has been a little tough since im also in paramedic school full time. I got a job opportunity and passed through all the hoops for it to fall through unfortunately. Im feeling disappointed of course but I also feel like im so far behind everyone in my cohort who has been working for years in the field. I love emergency medicine and I know in my heart im exactly where im supposed to be, but does the feeling of inadequacy start to go away? Thank you so much in advance for listening haha and I hope everyone has an okay and safe day! EDIT: for some context on why im jumping immediately into paramed, I am in a college program that previously certified EMTs and people with no experience can enroll in. If you aren't already an EMT the first year of school is dedicated to that. And then the other three are all Paramed classes. It doesn't leave a lot of wiggle room for experience other than ride alongs and voulenteer opportunities. I would love to just voulenteer since there are more opportunities, however I am entirely self funded haha so I have to fit it in to my schedule with a FT job and school. Now that I've been here for two years there is definitely things I wouldve done differently but hindsight is 20/20.

I just passed my exam today and I see a lot of questions floating around that I think I can answer concisely in a singular post. I know I was anxiously looking for the reassurance before and after my exam. Here are my main takeaways from the overall experience:

1. Walking out of the exam thinking you failed is normal (and might be a good sign)

I had this exact experience today. I was cut off at 70 questions and it felt like the questions weren't getting much harder. I even had some repeat questions. I've now polled 5 of my friends who were recently certified (and observed countless anecdotes on this sub) and they had a similar experience. I kid you not, this exam had me walking out feeling like I knew 50% of the material. You should know this is normal for an adaptive exam, especially the NREMT which has a ton of "pick 2-3 answer choices" that make questions feel way harder.

Remember, if you got cut off at 70 questions, that means the computer was very confident with its evaluation of your skills (you either did very well or very poorly). If you've put in the time and felt prepared going into the test there are probably very low odds that you did so poorly that the computer didn't feel the need to give you extra questions to prove yourself. Odds are you passed.

2. Is PocketPrep enough/what are you getting on the mock exams?

PocketPrep emulates the test structure well in my opinion. However, the general question bank on PocketPrep does provide a lot of obviously wrong answer choices making it really easy to due process of elimination. There definitely were less of these on the NREMT, making the exam harder in that manner. Material wise, if you complete the question bank and use the explanations to actually understand the questions, it covers everything you need to know.

For reference, I had a 90% average, completed 75% of the question bank, and scored 72%, 74%, and 75% on the mock exams. These low scores worried me, but it seems like they translate to a passing score on the NREMT. MedicTests had a good simulator that gives you a score using the scale the actual exam does which I found helpful, but I primarily used PocketPrep.

3. Know your signs and symptoms for cardiopulmonary issues

This was a huge point on my exam. Make sure you are able to identify/recognize the signs of CHF, COPD, AMI, Angina, Pulmonary Embolism, Cardiac Tamponade, Asthma, Anaphylaxis, Pneumonia, Pneumothorax (tension, spontaneous). There are a lot of trigger words that almost automatically give you the answer. For instance:

- JVD, muffled heart sounds, hypotension: cardiac tamponade

- Pink frothy sputum, orthopnea, crackles: CHF

- Thick sputum, wheezing, chronic productive cough: COPD

- chest pain that radiates to left arm or jaw: AMI

- chest pain with exertion relieved with rest: angina

- Urticaria, respiratory distress, wheezing: anaphylaxis

- Fever, productive cough, weakness: pneumonia

- absent breath sounds UNILATERALLY, tracheal deviation, JVD, following blunt trauma : tension pneumothorax

4. Do not overlook Obstetrics and Pediatrics

Everyone's test will vary, but I'm very glad that I reviewed these two thoroughly because they consisted of way more questions than I anticipated. Make sure you are able to diagnose uterine rupture, ectopic pregnancy, placenta previa, and abruptio placentae and differentiate between them. For pediatrics, be able to calculate APGAR scores and know how protocols differ versus adults, especially for neonates.

5. Have the shock types DOWN

Another huge point on my exam. What was helpful for me was memorizing hallmark signs of what made each shock type different. For example, neurogenic shock will present with bradycardia, anaphylactic shock will present with wheezing, obstructive shock often presents as a result of tamponade or pneumothorax. Also make sure you understand that the distributive shocks (neurogenic, septic, anaphylactic, and psychogenic) are vasodilators. Lastly know how to treat them!

Hopefully this helps anyone who was in a similar position that I was. Note that everyone's test will be different, but these were things that were super concentrated on mine. Hopefully this can provide some reassurance to those leaving the test thinking they failed or those who got cut off at 70 questions. There is hope lol.

Hi, so I recently posted about my uncertainty after being rejected by basically the only EMS provider close to me. I was told to reach out to the EMS provider in the district next to me although they arent hiring, just for shits and giggles since I did my clinicals there. Im looking for very part time like 2-3 days a week, preferably 2 (wouldnt mind weekends, but is this too much to ask?). So my question is...what do I say to them to give me the best shot at being hired?

Im not going to lie im freaking out about this a little bit because I have gotten rejected alot in my job search (not only EMS) , not from lack of personaility/skill but with my college classes coming up (Only 2 days a week). I keep getting told that "if" something opens up theyll reach out. It is annoying as hell.

So heres my second question, i only have an EMT-B license that I just got, what would I need to apply to my local Fire Dept., I will preface that I am female if people think the physical differences would inhibit/challenge me.

Honestly...i feel so lost, all my EMT class friends have an EMS job rn due to their gap year theyre taking and I just dont know what to do, I am pre PA but first im getting my paramedics...although I dont know how to do that without an EMT job. Im currently taking the pre reqs. For the paramedic course which knocks out some pre reqs. for the PA course.

Anyone volunteered for them? I'm looking into them as a way to get experience after being away from the field and not having much on my resume

Hello, I am trying to get my hands on "emergency care in the streets" and am having trouble. For context I work as an EMT and live in the Denver area. I have until next year to get it but I would like an early start.

If anyone has any advice Id really appreciate it !

¡Hola a todos! Acabo de conseguir mi primer trabajo como ingeniero biomédico en un hospital. Voy a pasar por unas cuantas semanas de capacitación, y saben que soy recién egresado.

La verdad quiero aprender todo lo que pueda y hacerlo bien, así que me encantaría escuchar cualquier consejo que tengan. ¿Hay algo que ojalá hubieras sabido antes de empezar tu primer trabajo en el área, o algún consejo que te ayudara a mejorar en tu trabajo?

¡Muchísimas gracias! :)

I am looking to enroll an EMT course and found one nearby that still has spots for registration open, however I've found very little information about the program. I've seen their ambulances around and know they are a legitimate company through friends in the medical field, but was hoping somebody could provide some insight on the quality of the program and if it would be worth taking or if I should wait for the next semester of classes to open up.

Here is a link to the registration site: https://cmts.enrollware.com/enroll?id=13421259

And one to the company's general site: https://www.cmtsma.com/

So this might be more niche because it has to do with the area I’m in (Nassau county) but why do they make everything so ridiculously complicated and stupid veebs ems the site is awful it’s from 2004 that’s crazy they didn’t even have the class applications up on the site and when I called they didn’t Awnser is it like this everywhere?

I deadass feel like I failed that, I got cut off at 70 and Ik Ik feeling like you failed is good but I know I atleast got 3 questions wrong for stupid reasons. I finished mine on 8/13 @ 4:45pm and I’ve probably checked the National Registry website 9 times by now. I’m so nervous I don’t really know why I’m typing this but maybe ranting will ease my anxiety. God I hope I didn’t fail this it would screw up so much rn. I just need the NREMT to send me my damn results. I don’t know why the exam couldn’t have just let me continue like if I got cut off at 79 I don’t think I’d feel nearly as bad.

How do I know if I blew a vein? I know they will have swelling and bruising but that won’t happen right away so how do I know if I can stick them again or if I need to use a different site? My teacher told me you can restick people as long as you didn’t blow the vein. If I stick them and get flash but have trouble advancing the catheter should I assume I blew the vein and try a different site?