6.8 A Day in the Life of a Paramedic
Karen Piette, MHS, CMA
A typical day for a paramedic can vary greatly. No two shifts are the same, and the responsibilities and calls can differ based on location, time, and patient needs. Paramedics typically work in shifts of 8, 12, or 24 hours. They may be assigned to a specific station or work mobile units in the community, depending on their area’s needs. In rural areas, a paramedic may only respond to a few calls per shift, while in a large city, they may respond to dozens of calls in the same timeframe.
When a paramedic begins their shift, they first assesses the equipment in the response vehicle to ensure everything is functioning properly. This includes checking medical supplies, ensuring the vehicle is operational, and confirming that all necessary tools are ready for use. Once the equipment check is complete, the paramedic heads out, ready to respond to calls.
The majority of calls are non-critical (non life-threatening) emergencies and involve at-risk populations and elderly patients. Common cases include breathing difficulties, diabetic emergencies, chest pain, and traffic collisions. They also respond to more urgent cases, such as violent crimes involving gunshot wounds or stabbings.
Upon arriving at the scene, the paramedic assesses the patient’s condition, provides necessary treatment, and prepares for transport to the hospital. After treating and transporting the patient, the paramedic must turn the patient over to hospital staff and complete the required paperwork and documentation.
Between calls is typically when paramedics eat and rest. Since units do not go out of service for breaks, paramedics only have downtime between patient contacts. Labor laws and union agreements help ensure that paramedics have time for breaks, although these regulations can vary by state. These breaks are essential for maintaining both physical and mental health during long shifts.
At the end of their shift, paramedics report any issues with with the equipment or vehicle to the incoming crew before signing out and going home.
Attributions
- Figure 6.7: image released under the Pexels License