One behind, one ahead

There are challenges at every step to becoming an EMT. Some are easily overcome, such as learning to take a pulse or blood pressure reading, move a patient to or from a stretcher, or take off a pair of gloves without getting glitter all over yourself (yes, that is from an actual practical skill session...).

Tougher challenges include the mental ones, becoming comfortable with assessments and how to build rapport with patients, especially the ones who might not be able to fully communicate what ails them, yet is reliant upon you as an EMT to keep them safe, and get them to more skilled medical hands.

And then there is the final exam of the EMT course.

I am thankful that the course is over, and even more thankful that the exam is behind me.

Having been out of school for more years than some of my classmates have been alive, I never felt quite prepared enough for the course exams, even though I did well on them all,

I'm happy to say that I actually did pretty well on the final exam, but willing to admit that there were a dozen or so questions that made me pause and go "Uhh... did they really cover this in the book?"

This has been one of the most challenging things I've undertaken for myself.

I'm equal parts pleased and terrified.

Pleased that I can now go on to take the state certification exam.

And terrified that it's going to be twice as challenging. So send your good wishes my way... I'll take all I can get. ..