A new emergency care support worker (ECSW) pilot programme has been launched within my area. Having joined this scheme, I am employed part-time as an ECSW while also a student. I understand from talking with my peers that it can be difficult finding work where the demands of the paramedic science degree are understood, but also within the industry itself. I know many students work within hospitality sectors to earn some extra income to support the increasing living costs; however, working within the industry in some format helps to boost exposure and assists in gaining experience. I would definitely recommend an industry-related job as it helps to increase clinical time and experience, which in turn encourages confidence to grow. Every role undertaken including patient transport, first aid or working within a hospital, either in administration or clinical, provides excellent opportunities to expand knowledge, improve communication and build networks. Being willing to face challenges head-on has exposed me to different scenarios, which has enriched my learning.
Working alongside my degree has really helped me with managing my schedule. I have to admit it has been extremely overwhelming and difficult at times, trying to juggle everyday life, my health, placement and shifts alongside studying. However, what better way to gain experience for the future? Having the opportunity, as a student, to work within an area and workforce that is different to that I am usually based in has helped me to appreciate that each station and area differs in terms of, for instance, call categories, services offered, cohorts of patients and staff. I have enjoyed working and learning within a different scope of practice and found that it has benefited me to focus on developing specific aspects of my skills as I am not so worried about having my OAR [ongoing achievement record] signed off and demonstrating clinical skills.
One of my struggles this year as a student paramedic is the pressure I feel when on route to the hospital to ensure my handovers are precise and accurate. Knowing I need to hand over formally to other professionals has made me anxious and flustered at times. Again, the more I allow myself to undertake these challenges, the more I will improve. However, as an ECSW, there is less scrutiny, which has allowed me to become more confident with my attending skills and summarising, which has transferred over into my student role.
I have really enjoyed working as a clinician and being a more active part of the crew. There is always help and support, but working with a variety of other crew mates has allowed me to taken on more responsibility and has pushed me to throw myself into the deep end and given me the autonomy to trust myself. My confidence continues to grow, and not shadowing a mentor at times has helped me to become more confident when speaking with other crews, service users and professionals.
I appreciate from experience that change and new beginnings can bring their challenges. An important element is finding what works best for you as an individual. Every student learns differently from varied styles and methods, which is what I love about my degree—you never stop learning and absorbing practice skills.