National EMS Week (May 19-25) recognizes emergency medical services providers and the important contributions they make to their communities. This year’s theme is “Beyond the Call”, celebrating the men and women who fearlessly and tirelessly go above and beyond the call of duty.
For many in EMS, the sense of responsibility to care for the community doesn’t end when the shift does. EMS means more than dedication to duty and lifesaving patient care. EMS is also community care that takes time, energy and heart – far beyond the scope of your everyday calling. - EMS Strong
EMS providers deliver so much more than patient care. They are often a shoulder to lean on and a hand to hold in life’s most stressful and scariest moments.
We are proud to support EMS providers across the country. Your impact reaches far beyond a single patient or emergency. We are grateful for the work you do and recognize the emotional and physical toll it can take. Thank you for everything you do!
Training Students to Respond to an Emergency
Our main goal as Instructors is to prepare students to respond confidently in an emergency. Before students learn the ins and outs of CPR or using an AED, we must focus on teaching them how to recognize an emergency and the importance of activating EMS by calling 911. The sooner EMS providers are in route, the sooner the victim can receive more advanced care, increasing their chance of survival.
As Instructors, we can build student confidence about responding to an emergency by fostering a discussion that includes the following key points:
- When in doubt, always call 911.
- Help is already on the way even though you’re still providing additional information.
- Remain on the line and follow the 911 call-takers instructions.
- Hang up last.
Click here to learn more about best practices to follow when calling 911.