What I learned

After doing this interview, I see EMT work very differently. Before, I thought it was mostly about medical care, but now I understand how important communication is in everything they do.

This project also made me think about my own skills. Being able to stay calm, communicate clearly, and work with others is important in almost any career.

Overall, this experience gave me a better understanding of the EMT field and a lot of respect for the people who do this job every day.

About the Author

Claudia Melendez is a student exploring disciplinary literacy in healthcare, with a focus on communication in emergency medical services.

Resources

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Education Standards. U.S. Department of Transportation, 2009, www.ems.gov/pdf/education/national-EMS-education-standards.pdf

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Emergency Medical Services: Prehospital Care. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, www.cdc.gov/ems/index.html