In a typical work setting, emergency medical technicians:

Interpersonal Relationships

• Have a high level of social interaction. They constantly work with the public and other emergency workers.
• Often deal with people who are angry or unpleasant due to their illnesses or injuries.
• Are greatly responsible for the health and safety of patients and coworkers.
• Are responsible for the outcomes and results of others.
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• Often deal with patients that are physically aggressive.
• Are sometimes placed in conflict situations.
• Work as part of an emergency team. This is extremely important because they must coordinate their work to provide the best care.
• Communicate face-to-face with coworkers and patients everyday.
• Communicate with other emergency departments daily by telephone and e-mail.
• Write letters and memos often.

Physical Work Conditions

• Are always exposed to diseases and infections when treating patients.
• Work both indoors and outdoors. Indoor locations may not be heated or air conditioned.
• Wear protective attire daily.
• Are often exposed to contaminants.
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• Are often exposed to very hot or very cold temperatures.
• Are often exposed to hazardous equipment, conditions, and situations.
• Work in an enclosed vehicle, such as an ambulance, daily.
• Work very near other people and have little space between self and others.
• Regularly work in cramped places that require them to get into awkward positions.
• Are exposed daily to sounds and noise levels that are distracting and uncomfortable. This is especially true when riding in an ambulance with the sirens on.
• Often work indoors without heating or air conditioning.
• Are sometimes exposed to extreme lighting conditions. They may work in very bright light or in dim light.
• Sometimes wear specialized protective gear or safety attire.

Work Performance

• Must be very exact in performing the job and make sure that all the details have been followed. Errors could seriously endanger patients.
• Often repeat the same tasks over and over, such as checking vital signs and administering first aid.
• Can make most decisions without consulting a supervisor.
• Can set some tasks and goals without talking to a supervisor.
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• Make decisions daily that affect the health of their patients.
• Meet strict weekly deadlines.
• Make decisions that strongly impact other people.

Hours/Travel

• May work part time or full time.
• Most work over 40 hours per week. Those who work for fire departments work about 50 hours per week. Those who work for hospitals work between 45 and 60 hours per week.
• May work days, evenings, nights, or weekends. Emergency services are available 24 hours a day.
• May be on-call for extended periods of time, especially those who work for police and fire departments.