What to Expect on Your First Day as an EMT

Gain insights and practical tips to help you feel confident from day one.

Becoming an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) is a unique and rewarding profession that places you on the front lines of healthcare. EMTs are trained to respond to emergency situations, providing critical care and assistance to those in need. Whether it’s performing CPR, managing trauma, or transporting patients to medical facilities, EMTs play an essential role in saving lives and stabilizing conditions in unpredictable environments. The profession requires a combination of medical knowledge, quick decision-making, and the ability to stay calm under pressure. EMTs often work closely with paramedics, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, forming a key part of emergency response teams. It’s a career that demands both physical and mental resilience, as no two shifts are ever the same.

Starting a new career as an EMT is both exciting and nerve-wracking. As you step into this fast-paced, life-saving role, it’s natural to feel a mix of anticipation and uncertainty about what lies ahead. In this article, we’ll walk you through what to expect on your first day on the job—from the daily tasks you’ll encounter to the importance of teamwork, the equipment you’ll be using, and essential tips for success. In this article, we’ll explore what to expect on your first day as an EMT, ensuring that you’re ready to step into this challenging yet rewarding career with confidence. Click here to learn more about and top EMT specialties that are possible in this rewarding career.

Arriving at the Station

When you arrive at the station for your first shift as an EMT, you can expect a mix of routine and anticipation. Punctuality is key—arriving early shows professionalism and gives you time to settle in before your shift officially begins. Your first step will likely be checking in with your supervisor or shift lead to confirm your presence and readiness for the day.

Meeting the team you’ll be working with is an essential part of the process. You’ll be introduced to your fellow EMTs, paramedics, and possibly your assigned partner, who will play a critical role in your day-to-day tasks. Building rapport early on is important, as EMT work relies heavily on trust and collaboration.

Before hitting the road, most stations conduct a shift briefing or overview. During this time, duties are assigned, calls from previous shifts are reviewed, and any key updates about patient care protocols or station logistics are shared. This briefing is a great opportunity to clarify your role and responsibilities and ask any questions you may have.

As a new EMT, you’ll likely be paired with a more experienced partner or supervisor who can guide you through your first day. Teamwork will be emphasized right from the start, as EMTs rely on each other to ensure that patients receive the best possible care in every situation.

Getting Familiar with the Ambulance and Equipment

Before heading out on your first calls, it’s essential to get familiar with the ambulance and its equipment. One of the key responsibilities of an EMT is to ensure that all medical supplies and gear are properly stocked and functioning. This starts with a thorough inspection of the ambulance itself and everything inside it.

• Inspect the ambulance: Ensure the vehicle is fully operational and ready for emergency calls.
• Check essential equipment: Oxygen tanks, automated external defibrillators (AEDs), stretchers, various medical supplies, airway management tools (e.g., BVM, intubation kits), and Trauma kits (e.g., bandages, tourniquets, splints)
• Verify medical supplies: Medications (check expiration dates), IV supplies, syringes and needles, and sterile gloves and gowns
• Ensure equipment is functional: Test devices like AEDs and monitors to ensure they are in working order.
• Organize supplies: Familiarize yourself with where everything is stored for quick access during emergencies and restock if needed.
• Ask for guidance: Seek advice from experienced crew members on proper equipment checks and station-specific procedures.
• Follow station protocols: Adhere to any specific requirements or steps outlined by your station for ambulance and equipment checks.

Responding to Your First Call

When the moment comes to respond to your first emergency call, it’s an experience you won’t soon forget. Calls are typically received through a central dispatch system, where you’ll be provided with key information such as the location, nature of the emergency, and any immediate concerns like patient conditions or potential hazards. Dispatch communication is vital during this process, as it keeps you informed and guides you to the scene efficiently.

Hearing the sirens for the first time and jumping into the ambulance can be a rush of adrenaline. As the vehicle speeds toward the scene, you’ll likely feel a combination of excitement and nerves, a perfectly normal reaction for new EMTs. This is the moment you’ve been training for, and it’s natural to feel a mixture of anticipation and anxiety about what’s waiting for you.

Many EMTs experience a range of emotions before their first call—excitement about putting their skills to use and nervousness about the unknown. The key is to focus on what you’ve learned and trust in your training. Remind yourself that you’re prepared for this moment, and that experienced crew members are there to guide you.

To help manage your emotions, stay calm by focusing on your breathing and mentally running through the steps you’ll need to take upon arrival. Clear communication with your partner is also critical, as teamwork is essential in emergencies. Staying calm, focused, and confident will help you approach the situation with a clear head, allowing you to provide the best care possible.

Tips for Responding to Your First Call:

• Take a deep breath and stay focused on your training.
• Rely on your partner and crew for support and guidance.
• Mentally prepare by reviewing your steps and staying organized.
• Communicate clearly with your team and dispatch.
• Remember that it’s okay to feel nervous. Trust in your abilities and training.

On-Scene Protocols and Interacting with Patients

When you arrive at the scene of an emergency, the first moments are crucial. Expect to follow the lead of more experienced EMTs initially, especially during your first few calls. This is a time to observe and learn as much as you can while gradually taking on more responsibility. The scene may be chaotic, but staying composed and following established protocols will help guide your actions.

• The first priority is quickly assessing the situation. This involves a swift evaluation of the environment, any potential hazards, and the condition of the patient.
• Establishing rapport with the patient is just as important—introduce yourself, explain what you’re doing, and reassure them that you’re there to help.
• The primary assessment, where you check the patient’s airway, breathing, and circulation (the ABCs), will guide your initial interventions and help you prioritize care.

Balancing compassion with efficiency is essential. Patients may be distressed, scared, or in pain, and providing reassurance can go a long way in calming their nerves. At the same time, your actions must be swift and purposeful to ensure timely care. The goal is to address immediate medical needs while offering comfort and confidence through your demeanor. For new EMTs, it’s common to start by handling less complex tasks, such as taking vital signs, applying dressings, or prepping equipment, while more experienced crew members manage critical interventions. This hands-on experience allows you to build confidence while observing advanced techniques in real time.

Advice for Interacting with Patients:

• Stay calm and composed, no matter the situation.
• Communicate clearly and kindly with the patient and their family.
• Focus on your primary assessment while offering reassurance.
• Follow the lead of experienced EMTs and ask questions when appropriate.
• Start with basic tasks and gradually take on more complex responsibilities as you gain experience.

In these first moments, staying calm and confident not only helps you deliver quality care but also instills trust in both the patient and their family members.

Documentation and Reporting

After each emergency call, documenting the care provided is a critical responsibility. EMTs are required to fill out Patient Care Reports (PCRs), which serve as the official medical record of the incident. The PCR not only captures the specifics of the care you administered but also plays a vital role in both legal documentation and ensuring continuity of care as patients are transferred to hospitals or other healthcare providers.

Accuracy and thoroughness are essential when completing your reports. You’ll need to record important details such as patient vital signs, the treatments you administered (e.g., oxygen therapy, medication, wound care), and the outcome of the call. Be sure to include any observations about the patient’s condition upon your arrival, the interventions performed, and their response to those treatments. Each detail is important, as it can impact future medical decisions for the patient.

During your first few shifts, experienced EMTs or supervisors will typically assist you with the documentation process. They can guide you on what to prioritize in your reports and how to follow the station’s specific reporting protocols. Over time, completing PCRs will become a routine part of your workflow, but early guidance will help you develop the habit of capturing all necessary information clearly and efficiently.

Tips for Documentation:

• Be detailed and precise when recording patient information and treatments.
• Focus on key data points such as vital signs, interventions, and patient response.
• Ensure timelines are accurate (e.g. when treatments were administered).
• Ask for guidance from more experienced team members as you learn the process.
• Double-check your report for completeness before submitting it.

Good documentation ensures that your efforts are properly recorded and that the patient’s care continues seamlessly when transferred to other medical professionals.

The Importance of Teamwork and Communication

In emergency medical services (EMS), effective teamwork and communication are at the heart of providing quality patient care. As a new EMT, it’s essential to build strong working relationships with your partner and crew members. Trust and mutual respect between team members are the foundation of a smooth, efficient workflow, especially in high-pressure situations.

Clear communication is critical, both on and off the scene. During an emergency, concise and accurate communication with your team ensures that everyone is on the same page, allowing for coordinated actions that directly impact patient outcomes. Off the scene, strong communication helps with tasks like equipment checks, reporting, and shift briefings, all of which contribute to a well-run operation.

Being new to the role, you’ll be working closely with more experienced EMTs and paramedics, and staying open to their feedback is key to your growth. They can offer practical advice, guidance on handling challenging situations, and tips for improving your skills. Take their feedback seriously and use it to improve your performance.

Don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek clarification if you’re unsure about something—this is how you’ll continue to learn and grow in the role. EMT work requires humility and the ability to learn on the job, so it’s important to remain teachable as you gain experience.

Teamwork and Communication Tips:

• Build strong relationships with your partner and crew members to foster trust.
• Communicate clearly and concisely during emergencies to ensure effective patient care.
• Stay open to feedback from experienced EMTs and paramedics.
• Ask questions and seek clarification when needed—learning is ongoing.
• Be humble and receptive to advice as you develop your skills.

Good communication and teamwork are the backbone of success in EMS, helping you and your team deliver the best possible care in every situation.

Managing Stress and Emotions

Working as an EMT can be emotionally demanding, especially when you’re new to the field and facing high-stress situations for the first time. It’s natural to feel overwhelmed, and acknowledging these emotions is the first step toward managing them effectively.

Tips for Managing Stress:

It’s normal to feel overwhelmed when starting out as an EMT. The high-stress nature of the job, combined with the intense situations you may encounter, can evoke a range of emotions. Recognizing that these feelings are a natural part of the experience can help alleviate some of the pressure. Remember, even seasoned EMTs encounter challenging moments and have to navigate their own emotions. It’s important to give yourself permission to feel what you’re feeling and understand that it’s a part of the learning process.

Building mental resilience is crucial in the EMS field. Developing coping strategies, such as practicing deep breathing techniques, can help manage immediate stress. After particularly difficult calls, taking time to debrief with your team allows you to process the experience collectively, share support, and gain perspective. Leaning on your coworkers for emotional support and guidance can also make a significant difference.

Self-care is an integral part of maintaining your well-being. If you find yourself struggling to cope with the emotional demands of the job, seeking professional support, such as counseling or therapy, is a proactive step. Addressing mental health needs is not a sign of weakness but a strength that contributes to long-term success and resilience in the field. Remember, it’s okay to seek help and prioritize your mental health as part of your overall self-care routine. Understanding that it’s normal to feel overwhelmed at first and focusing on building resilience will help you navigate the emotional challenges of being an EMT and thrive in your career.

What to Bring for Your First Shift

Being well-prepared for your first shift as an EMT can make a significant difference in your comfort and efficiency. Here’s a checklist of essential items to bring:

• Uniform: Ensure you have the appropriate EMT uniform, including any required patches or identification.
• ID Badge: Always wear your official ID badge for easy identification.
• Notepads and Pens: Bring notepads for taking notes and pens for documentation. Accurate record-keeping is crucial.
• Stethoscope: A high-quality stethoscope is essential for assessing vital signs and listening to heart and lung sounds.
• Gloves: Stock up on disposable gloves for patient care and protection.
• Snacks: Pack some non-perishable snacks to keep your energy levels up during long shifts.
• Water: Stay hydrated by bringing a reusable water bottle. Keeping hydrated is important for maintaining focus and energy.
• Comfortable Clothing: Dress in layers if necessary and wear comfortable, breathable clothing. You might experience varying temperatures during your shift.
• Personal Items: Consider bringing any personal items that help you stay comfortable, such as a small personal fan or a pair of comfortable shoes.

Being well-prepared ensures you can focus on providing excellent patient care without worrying about missing essentials. Staying hydrated and nourished throughout your shift is vital for maintaining your physical and mental stamina. Comfort and readiness will help you navigate your first shift with greater ease and confidence.

Ready to Kickstart Your Career as an EMT?

As you embark on your first day as an EMT, it’s important to remember a few key takeaways. Expect a whirlwind of activity, from arriving at the station and familiarizing yourself with the ambulance and its equipment to responding to emergency calls and managing documentation. The initial experience may seem overwhelming, but it’s also a thrilling beginning to your career in EMS. Approach your first day with a positive attitude and an open mind. While it’s natural to feel nervous, remember that asking for help when needed and learning from your more experienced peers will be invaluable. Embrace the opportunity to observe and absorb as much as you can, and take comfort in knowing that every shift will build your skills and confidence.

You’ve trained for this moment and are well-prepared for the challenges ahead. With each call and each shift, you’ll grow and refine your abilities. Remember that every EMT started where you are now, and their experiences have shaped their success. Trust in your training, stay resilient and know that you are capable of making a significant difference in the lives of those you serve. Welcome to your new role—your journey in EMS has just begun, and it’s one that will bring both profound challenges and immense rewards.

Join our EMT Boot Camp to gain hands-on experience and essential skills. Discover tips for success as an EMT that will help you excel in your role. Plus, explore alternative jobs for EMTs and Paramedics to broaden your career horizons and find your perfect fit in the field. Start your journey today and set yourself up for a successful and fulfilling career in emergency medical services.