One of the interesting things about working in EMS is having partners. Some places you have the same partner every time you come in to work, other places it switches up. I’m in a place where I have the same partner every week, so we get to know how each other work, and what we like and dislike. Sometimes I want to have different partners to switch it up, and to meet new people as well, but keeping it the same makes it easier for emergency calls.
Learning how to work with people is a serious life skill. Especially when you’re in a truck with someone for 12 hours. You have to learn how to not get on each others nerves, and how to compromise on some things. For the first few shifts it might be difficult, but it gets better. If you’re really lucky you will get a partner that you hit it off with immediately, and it will make for an easier day.
The way I go about partners is to not judge quickly, and see what they bring to the table, and how I can better the partnership. As the paramedic in the truck I am technically in charge, so technically it is what I say goes, but no one likes anyone who tries to take over, and sometimes, or really most of the time right now, my partners have more experience than me, and can teach me some things as well. I also like to learn about my partners, so I ask a lot of questions to “bond”, and that opens the doors to conversation, making the shift more fun. All in all working with people never gets easier, but it has to be learned. Find ways to connect with your partner, and everything will be okay. Until next time,
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