What does it take to be a good paramedic?

There’s a lot of answers like “adaptability” and “compassion.” But those are very generic and fit pretty much any job you can think of. What person wouldn’t do better at their job if they were a little more adaptable or compassionate?

After over a decade working as both an EMT and a paramedic, I’ve found these 3 unconventional traits make a good medic, great.

They are…

• Emotional Detachment
• Selective Laziness
• Ego Control

And there might be a bonus trait at the end if you stick around.

Emotional Detachment

You don’t need to become some soulless sociopath to be a good paramedic.

You do need to learn how to separate yourself from the chaos of the world around you. To do your best when the time comes, and then drop it when the call is over. It’s super hard to do and it causes a lot of paramedics to burn out.

However, there is a time and a place to care.

When mee-maw has been sick and just wants a hand to hold on the way to the ER, care then. Make small talk, make her feel like her call is important. It doesn’t matter if this is the fourteenth call that day, (I know that’s hard) make your patient feel like it’s your first.

My Weakness Is I Care Too Much

A B.S. answer too many people give during interviews.

But in this career, its a real weakness. To be a great paramedic, learn to set things down.

• That kid that didn’t make it
• The sweet old man in the MVA that reminds you of your grandpa
• The code that looked just like your dad

That shit sticks with you.

Do what you need to do to drop it and carry on.

Ego Control

If you’re like me, it was probably some badass paramedic that made you want to go this route anyway.

No EMT accidentally stumbles their way into paramedic class and successfully makes it out. Paramedic instructors weed them out. They’re easy to spot.

But, you need to learn to trust yourself.

It’s easy to feel like you need to prove yourself to EMTs, hospital staff, and your senior paramedics. Remember, you aren’t the hero on these calls. You’re just part of the team.

Think of it like this; You aren’t superman, you’re Batman.

Superman is the star of the show. Batman isn’t about to take down anyone solo. He’s still an integral part of the team.

Here’s what bad ego looks like

• Not asking for help when you need it
• Not changing course when the situation calls for it
• Over talking, under listening

Confidence is good. Unchecked ego is a liability.

(Selective) Laziness

Want something done? Give it to a lazy smart person.

They are streamlined and efficient. Something every good paramedic should strive to be. Because fatigue leads to mistakes. You want to conserve your energy for when it really matters.

Sick or not sick?

Compassion fatigue is a real thing. Don’t spend your precious energy on Mr. Sniffles at three in the morning. He just wants an expensive Uber straight to the lobby. Save your resources for someone who actually needs them.

Also, learn to delegate better.

A good medic knows how to use their resources. Remember, you are Batman, use your team to your advantage. Lift with your firefighter not your back.

Don’ts of being a good, lazy paramedic

• Don’t ignore protocol cause it’s inconvenient
• Leave the work to your partner
• Cut corners on reports

Ultimately, you’re not being lazy, you’re being efficient.

Bonus Point: Dark Humor

You know, some people say dark humor is a sign of intelligence.

But in reality, its an important coping mechanism. At least when it’s used properly. Because trust me, there is a wrong way.

Dark humor used wrong just makes you look like an ass.

Used correctly and dark humor is a boon for the rest of your crew. It builds station moral. It bonds you together.

Most importantly, it gives you some mental space.

Paramedics see things most people never will. To survive, you’re going to need a coping mechanism. Try dark humor or drinking. Whatever floats your boat really.

The difference between appropriate and inappropriate dark humor?

• Timing
• Audience
• Intent

Timing

There’s a time to joke and a time be serious. Sometimes, after a bad call, all everyone needs is a little space. Maybe they want to talk about it. They probably don’t want a joke about how you wouldn’t high five the suicide patient.

You know, cause you left him hanging…

Know Your Audience.

Hopefully I know mine or that last joke won’t go over very well. But some people just aren’t into a good joke. Specifically the patient or their families. Keep your jokes to the truck and the station. Never make a joke in earshot of the patient.

Finally, why you’re making the joke matters.

You can certainly make fun of the situation. But never be cruel. Don’t poke fun at the expense of someone else. It just makes you look like a jerk.

What It Really Takes To Be A Paramedic

Everything you heard before is totally right. You need to be a critical thinker and quick on your feet. You have to be compassionate yet direct. These are great skills for paramedics.

But in my experience, these are the things that really set great medics apart.

And if you’re looking to read more articles on how to be a medic or how to pass your paramedic classes, check out the rest of the blog here.

Good luck!