Don’t Worry, You’ll Stop Freaking Out Soon: Advice for New Paramedics
Becoming a newly licensed paramedic is both exciting and terrifying. You’ve spent months studying protocols, memorizing drug dosages, and honing your skills. But now, it’s real. You’re the one in the driver’s seat… well no longer in the driver seat— you’re in the box—, and suddenly, the weight of the tall responsibility feels overwhelming. If you’re finding yourself second-guessing everything, feeling like an imposter, or panicking over every call, take a deep breath. You’re not alone. And I promise—you’ll stop freaking out soon.
Embrace the Fear
It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed at first. You’re facing life-and-death situations, making critical decisions, and working in an unpredictable environment. Not to mention it feels like everyone is watching.
The fear you feel now? It’s just your brain adjusting to the reality of your new role. Instead of fighting it, embrace it. Fear keeps you on your toes, pushes you to double-check your work, and ultimately makes you a better provider. But don’t let it paralyze you—use it to fuel your growth.
Find Yourself as a Provider
One of the most important things to remember is that there are many right ways to do something. Sure, protocols provide structure, but within those guidelines, you have the freedom to develop your own style of patient care. Whether it’s how you communicate with patients, the way you run a scene, or how you work within your team, you’ll find what feels right for you over time. Be open to feedback, learn from your mistakes, and take inspiration from those around you—but don’t lose sight of who you are in the process.
Confidence Comes with Time
In the beginning, everything feels like a test, and it’s easy to compare yourself to more experienced providers. But remember, they were once in your shoes. Confidence isn’t something you can fake; it’s built call by call, experience by experience. Give yourself grace and trust that with each shift, you’ll grow into your role.
Lean on Your Team
No paramedic works alone. Lean on your partners, mentors, and peers. Ask questions, seek advice, and be willing to admit when you’re unsure. EMS is a team effort, and some of the best learning moments come from working alongside those who have been in the field longer than you.
Make sure you’ve landed at a company, service, or shift that is going to hold you accountable and lift you up in your successes.
Celebrate Small Wins
It’s easy to focus on the things that go wrong, but don’t forget to celebrate your victories—no matter how small they may seem. Whether it’s nailing a tough IV, successfully leading a cardiac arrest call, or just making a patient smile, those moments matter. They remind you why you chose this career in the first place.
Remember Why You Started
There will be tough days—days where you doubt yourself, where the weight of the job feels too heavy. But remember why you started this journey. Whether it was a desire to help others, a passion for emergency medicine, or the adrenaline rush of saving lives, hold onto that motivation. It will carry you through the hardest moments.
Don’t let yourself burnout. Remember to take time when you need it.
So, to all the new medics out there—don’t worry. The fear will fade, and you’ll find your rhythm.
One day soon, you’ll realize you’re not freaking out anymore, and instead, you’ll be the one reassuring the next new medic on their first shift.
Welcome to the job. You’ve got this.
