new and looking to learn

[griffithsgriffin]

hey men and women, my name is Zack. I am 23 years old and have completed my EMT-Basic course this summer as well as several years of college. Really looking to get into EMS!! I am new to this arena of life (EMS that is) and just want to learn from others. I finished my EMT course 2 months ago and will be taking the national soon (I know, I have waited too long. Gotta study!). I live in Vancouver, Washington (Near Portland, OR). Anyone have advice for making the jump from classroom to career? The way I see it, you can work on a truck/van, work in transport (best way to start from what I hear), get a job as a tech at a hospital (usually requires some years experience I believe?), working in fire (very competitive in my area), or go to Paramedic school (also requires experience I hear). I think I ultimately want to become a paramedic, but first wanna get a feel for EMS. Again, any tips, advice, or thoughts?

Zack

 

[fast65]

Well if ya want to get Oregon reciprocity your best bet up in the Portland area will be AMR or MetroWest, at least to the best of my knowledge.

Don't stress too much over the NREMT, it's not that hard at all.


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[griffithsgriffin]

thanks!! anyone else have any pointers?

 

[medicnick83]

thanks!! anyone else have any pointers?

For all new EMT-B's (We call them BLS/BAA here in South Africa) the best advice (That I give) is to do as many shifts as you can and get your hands dirty, don't just watch, get involved.

Actually, there is a saying that I've learnt from Metro EMS crews (alot of them)

"On this bus, we don't watch, we do!"

So any 'ride along' or 'third person' doesn't just watch, they get to do.

Best way to learn I have learnt.