In Celebration of National Emergency Medical Services Med Pak interviews Louise Smith, Paramedic at Meditech Emergency Response.
Q: How many years of experience do you have working as a paramedic?
A: I have 21 years of experience working as a paramedic. Over the years, I’ve dealt with a wide range of medical emergencies, from routine incidents to critical situations. This extensive experience has honed my ability to respond quickly and effectively to emergencies while maintaining a calm demeanor.
Q: Why did you enter this field and become a paramedic?
A: I chose to become a paramedic because I thrive in a fast-paced environment where quick decision-making is crucial. I enjoy working as part of a team where we support each other during high-pressure situations. Helping people during emergencies, when seconds count, is both challenging and rewarding.
Q: What steps do you take to regularly update your skills?
A: I continuously work to improve my skills through multiple avenues:
• Reading journal articles to stay updated on the latest medical advancements.
• Attending extra courses or certifications to improve my practical and theoretical knowledge.
• Learning on the job through real-life experiences, which helps me adapt to new challenges and patient needs.
Q: As a paramedic, what do you normally carry with you?
A: I carry essential equipment to handle various emergencies, including:
• A jump bag with critical first aid tools like bandages, medication, and IV supplies.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for safety in infectious or hazardous environments.
• A knife, which can be used for cutting seatbelts, clothing, or other obstructions during rescues.
Q: What do you do to stay calm during the high-pressure situations that come with this job?
A: In high-pressure situations, I stay calm by relying on my crew mates. Trusting that we can support one another ensures we make clear, informed decisions. Additionally, I remind myself that the patient is counting on us to maintain our composure and provide the best care. This focus on the patient helps me manage stress and remain calm.
Q: What additional equipment do you use as a paramedic?
A: Beyond the jump bag, I also carry important equipment like:
• A monitor to track vital signs such as heart rate and blood pressure.
• Oxygen to support patients with breathing difficulties.
• A stretcher to safely transport patients from the scene to the ambulance or hospital.
