By EMS1 Staff
Your experience as an EMT will be the foundation for helping you pass paramedic school, but to become a paramedic you’ll need to fine-tune your study skills, review your BLS knowledge and reallocate your time so that paramedic school receives your full attention.
EMS1 took a look at a variety of tools that can help you navigate through paramedic school more effectively. We selected seven that will bring your EMS education preparedness and knowledge to the next level.
1. Paramedic training texts
Whether you need to deep-dive into new and challenging material, or you just need to brush up on skills you’re already confident on, there are severak study guides and exam prep texts that can assist you and your entire class.
2. A quality stethoscope
You’re probably well aware of the importance of having a good pair of “ears” as we call them, or a stethoscope. Consider:
- Quality. Once you’re in the field, you’ll want a quality stethoscope to amplify heart or lung sounds over a blaring siren.
- Price. There are various brands of stethoscopes with a range of prices ensuring you can find something at your price point that will not disappoint.
- Comfort. One of the more important things to consider with a stethoscope is how well the earpieces fit.
Here are some highly-rated stethoscope options:
3. A set (or two) of trauma shears
The best trauma shears are ones that allow you to work on a patient safely and quickly – the ones you carry. There are many quality trauma shears on the market at inexpensive price points, making it possible to stash multiple pairs with your gear, and less frustrating if you misplace them (or if your partner swipes them).
4. Tactical boots
EMS personnel are always on their feet. It’s also common to be put into precarious situations that require steady footwork. Boots that don’t withstand the requirements of your job will hinder your performance, which makes investing in a sturdy pair a wise decision – especially as you begin to ramp up your responsibilities as a paramedic.
When selecting a pair of duty boots, consider:
- Get a good fit. Proper fit is crucial not only to comfort but also performance. Tiny fit problems in cut, design and form can translate into suffering later on the job.
- Pay a little extra for quality. Boots are one purchase where great quality may cost real money. You can easily spend $200 or more on a top quality pair of boots. But it’s really worth it in the long run. You will feel better, work better and, ultimately, they will probably last longer.
- Buy a reputable brand. There are many great boots on the market today. Seek out boots from manufacturers that have been around a long time. A reputable, established manufacturer will typically support their products better. If you have a problem later, they will be much more inclined to resolve it to your satisfaction.
5. A high-power flashlight
One thing you quickly realize when you start a career in fire/EMS is that our calls often place us in dark or in low-visibility areas. Having the right supplemental lighting in the right place can mean the difference between success and failure in the heat of the moment.
6. Must-read books for EMS leaders and paramedics
Whether you’re seeking inspiration, looking to sharpen your leadership skills or aiming to expand your clinical expertise, reading is a powerful tool for professional growth in EMS.
7. NAEMT membership
NAEMT provides its members access to education that improves your performance, benefits that save you money at work and at home, and leadership opportunities that advance your career. As a student, your first year of NAEMT membership is only $25 (as long as you’re enrolled in classes of instruction leading to EMS certification.) NAEMT membership includes great discounts on apparel, continuing education, electronics and travel.
As a paramedic, you’ll have more job opportunities than as an EMT. A paramedic salary is also higher responsibility increases. For additional resources to help prepare for paramedic school, to learn the requirements of a paramedic, or to learn more about EMT, watch this video:
This article, originally published on November 08, 2017, has been updated with new products and resources.