Autoethnographic analysis of the self through an occupational story of a paramedic

In this empirical paper, I argue that storytelling is integral to the field of paramedicine. The stories told by paramedics can serve as powerful tools to facilitate meaning-making and identity within the profession, both of which may lead to a greater understanding of the discipline of paramedicine as a whole. I draw from a range of literature and from my own experiences as a paramedic to support this premise. I have also chosen to relate one particular story to demonstrate the richness of meaning that can be drawn from stories through exploration of the experiential dimensions of paramedic work. The nature of paramedicine provides fruitful ground for the emergence of stories that can serve to inspire individuals and allow for an exploration of self – both personal and professional.

Propelled into the chaos and tragedies they respond to in order to fulfil their role, paramedics serve as sudden and unexpected characters in the lives of others. They often encounter people who are at their worst, when the usual social conventions and constructions are torn down by pain, confusion, disempowerment or sorrow, and a different set of understandings and behaviours take their place. Significantly meaningful stories are born out of this involvement in the rawness of life and its realities. Working within an environment replete with atmosphere, tension and emotion, it comes as no surprise that “paramedics are immersed in narrative” (Tangherlini, 2003: 348), particularly given their exposure to events that abruptly and significantly alter the life stories of the individuals they are called to.