My EMT certification project was a comprehensive, 11-week training program that equipped me with essential skills and knowledge for emergency medical response. This project encompassed various activities, including obtaining CPR certification, learning to administer specific drugs within my scope of practice, gaining proficiency in ambulance operations, deepening my sense of compassion for patients, and honing my ability to make rapid, informed decisions based on observed medical signs.
Throughout my EMT class, a profound transformation occurred within me. I entered the program with a basic understanding of emergency medical procedures, but as I progressed, my perception of the world and my role in it fundamentally changed. I realized the immense responsibility and privilege of being an EMT, and this awareness reshaped my view of healthcare, compassion, and community service.
Several pivotal aspects of my EMT certification journey contributed to this transformation. Firstly, the hands-on experience of administering CPR and handling drugs within my scope of practice challenged me to confront the urgency and gravity of medical emergencies. Operating inside and outside an ambulance exposed me to the dynamic nature of the emergency response and taught me to adapt swiftly to different situations. I completed the class and passed my national registry exam with nine other students. Each and every one of them helped me and each other along the way, and I am more than grateful and honored to have been their classmate. Not to mention the excellent and just some of the best instructors I have ever had; they have been the most significant part of my experience in this program that helped me gain confidence in the new skills I have learned and how to be a better professional healthcare worker.
Moreover, I had the unique opportunity to complete a 12-hour ride-along with Critical Care Transport, which proved to be an eye-opening experience. During this ride-along, I gained a more realistic understanding of using EKG and capnography in a clinical setting. I also learned the intricacies of utilizing the cot, an essential piece of equipment for patient transport. These practical skills are invaluable for delivering high-quality emergency care.
Another significant aspect of my training involved visiting multiple hospital emergency departments, including Doctor’s West, OSU East, Lewis Children’s Center, and others. In these settings, I had the privilege of engaging with patients directly. I conducted patient assessments by taking detailed medical histories, discussing past medications, and carefully evaluating the onset of pain and other symptoms. These interactions allowed me to delve into the complexity of patient care, understanding not only the medical aspects but also the importance of effective communication and empathy in the healthcare process.
Additionally, during these hospital emergency department visits, I witnessed a wide array of patients’ reasons for seeking care in the ED. This exposure to diverse medical cases broadened my understanding of the scope and impact of emergency medicine. I also had the opportunity to observe medical procedures such as intubations, where patients received oxygen more directly, and the interpretation of CT scans by skilled technicians. Witnessing patients being bagged with oxygen for manual ventilation further reinforced the critical role of teamwork and precision in emergency situations. These experiences provided me with a comprehensive view of emergency medicine, emphasizing the importance of not only clinical skills but also the ability to collaborate effectively in high-pressure situations.
This transformation is immensely significant and valuable in my life. It not only deepened my commitment to pursuing a career in emergency medicine but also enhanced my ability to contribute effectively to society. The CPR certification and drug administration skills are not just professional qualifications but life-saving tools that I can utilize in emergencies. Furthermore, the profound sense of compassion I developed for patients has made me more empathetic and patient-centered in my approach to healthcare.
This transformation aligns perfectly with my academic, personal, and professional goals. I aspire to become a physician in the future, and my EMT certification is a crucial stepping stone on that journey. By choosing to become an EMT during my undergraduate years, I am proactively seeking to gain valuable clinical experience and a deeper understanding of emergency medicine. This experience will undoubtedly provide me with a unique perspective as I pursue a medical degree, enabling me to be a more compassionate and skilled physician.
Additionally, the transformation I underwent during my EMT certification reinforces the importance of qualities such as compassion, adaptability, and quick decision-making, all of which are essential not only for success in the medical field but also for my personal growth and future career as a physician.
