When a Gun is Pointed at You: A Paramedic's Perspective on Self-Preservation

Introduction

As a paramedic, the training and mindset we adopt in emergency situations often place our personal safety in direct conflict with our duty to the patient. This article explores the critical issue of what a paramedic should do if someone points a gun at them, aiming to provide a clear understanding of the professional and practical considerations.

The Core of Paramedic Training: Self-Preservation

Paramedics are trained to prioritize self-preservation above all else. This may sound counterintuitive, given the overarching goal of saving lives. However, it is a critical aspect of ensuring the safety of the paramedic, their partner, and the patient. The focus is on safeguarding lives while mitigating risks.

Self-Preservation in Action

According to the standard training protocols, the moment a paramedic identifies a threat, the immediate action is to retreat and ensure their own safety. If a gunman commands a paramedic to leave the scene, the correct response is to comply and leave the area. This step is crucial for a few reasons:

Protecting the Paramedic and Partner: Remaining on the scene endangers not only the paramedic but also the partner who is likely in close proximity and also a target. Allowing Law Enforcement to Handle the Situation: Paramedics are trained to call the police and wait for law enforcement personnel to take over. This ensures that proper measures are taken to restrain or disarm the gunman. Ensuring the Safety of the Patient: Once the scene is secured by the police, the paramedic can return to treat the patient if they are still alive.

Departmental Policies and Scene Safety

It is essential for paramedics to be thoroughly familiar with their department's policies regarding such high-risk situations. Every emergency response department has protocols in place for handling threats, which should be strictly followed. Paramedics must also assess the risk and determine if the scene is safe. Sometimes, even in the absence of a visible weapon, a scene may be unsafe due to ongoing threats.

Common Challenges in Emergency Situations

A common reason for paramedics failing the National EMT registry exam is a lack of clarity around scene safety assessments. The mindset that your life and that of your partner should always be prioritized helps in making the correct decisions during emergencies. The fear of becoming a collateral victim should always be the deciding factor. It is not about being selfish but about being practical and ensuring survival.

Conclusion

The decision to leave a patient to ensure one's safety can be a difficult one, but it is a necessary aspect of emergency response. Paramedics are taught to prioritize self-preservation, understand their department's policies, and always evaluate the scene for safety. By doing so, they can protect themselves, their partners, and the broader community, ensuring that they can continue to provide essential emergency care.

Keywords: self-preservation, paramedic skills, emergency response