When two worlds collide

Abstract

Emergency medical service professionals are used to the emotional and physical challenges that our role commands. We carefully and systematically apply algorithms and checklists to navigate the emotional minefield of prehospital care. We accept the unknown, because every shift is an unknown. An EMS crew will come in, check their equipment and await the buzz of the radio dispatch that will send them on their way. They will be asked to drive or fly in any direction required and they will meet a myriad of people during a shift. And the experiences can be life altering. However, paramedics carry on shift after shift providing assistance and care to their communities. Yet often not far from our own minds, are our loved ones. Our loved ones are what keeps many of us caring for complete strangers.