challenges dangers and obstacles associated with the proffession?

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ph60317

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I am currently taking my prerequisites one of which includes english 1301. my proffesor asked me to write an essay on my major. so i was wondering what are some of the dangers, obstacles, and challenges associated with being a paramedic. your help is very much appreciated :)
 
Fire unions
 
Working a wreck on the side of the highway.

Combative patients.

Back injuries.

Infectious diseases.

Money (or lack thereof)
 
Helicopter crashes
 
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

Organizational stressors that are quite prevalent in many EMS services
 
Disruption to your circadian rhythms due to interrupted sleep. The job can take it's toll on your marriage, your family, and your general quality of life due to having to work nights, weekends, holidays, 24 hour shifts, or even 48's and 72's. The pay can be low depending on where you live. Many work OT or have a second EMS job in addition to the first. Some departments force employees to work mandatory OT on a regular basis, which negatively affects their life as above.
 
Driving in blizzards and other less than ideal conditions.
 
I'd say the biggest danger comes from the members of EMS themselves. To many of us are so focused on helping the patient that we forget to take care of ourselves first. Physically, mentally, emotionally, and situationally (scene safety) we are the biggest danger to ourselves.
 
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Danger from aggressive/intoxicated/mentally ill patients
Danger from environment (traffic/fuel/infectious diseases)
Maintaining a healthy work-life balance
Continuing education as protocols change and new skills/drugs added
Legal aspects including privacy law, DNRs and litigation
 
All the above plus burnout&PTSD.Unfortunately,I experienced it back when it wasn't macho to get help and there weren't the resources we have today.
 
the most dangerous thing is silence about the things that rip your understandings of life and yourself to shreds.
 
Thanks

Thanks to everyone who has replied Stay Safe I really appreciate your help:)
 
Patients
 
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