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Questions Answered by Expert Jim Wilson

Subject	Date Asked
restrictions on becoming an EMT in New York State	5/12/2012
Q: My 18-year-old son is planning on becoming an EMT after graduating from high school in June. He ... A: Good Morning Roy, Incredible question - and I will be glad to respond. Before I go into my ...
Training/working after moving from Scotland	5/8/2012
Q: I am interested in becoming an EMT and working in the USA, can I do this if I live in Scotland? If ... A: The answer to your question will greatly depend on two factors; what state you plan on working in ...
EMT jobs	12/21/2011
Q: Jim, My question is real simple, are there people who are getting hired as EMTs, I got my training ... A: I am afraid that the current economy has taken its toll across the board. And it includes EMS, ...
Misdemeanor Expungement	11/7/2011
Q: I'm getting ready to apply for my California EMT Certification, I've already passed the NREMT exam. ... A: Please realize that I am in Florida and the laws and rules can vary from state to state. But here in ...
Sucking chest wound question	10/21/2011
Q: I was wondering: I have a fictional situation where someone has sucking chest wound and a friend has ... A: By and large the general rule of thumb is that, so long as whatever has been put on a patient prior ...
question again	10/19/2011
Q: I did get your message about being away ... but right after that my internet decided to quit on me ... A: 1) Assuming there is a stoplight here and red car has a red light. I don't drive (never have ...
becoming an EMT	5/25/2011
Q: My granddaughter wants to just enroll immediately into an EMT program at Palomar after graduation. ... A: Generally the EMT curriculum is a certificate course that, after successful completion, allows the ...
occupational interview (homework assignment)	4/27/2011
Q: i have some questions that i would like to ask you for a homework assignment if you dont mind.there ... A: Taking this one question at a time: 1.What is a typical day like for you? For me as an EMS Manager, ...
Swat medic	3/29/2011
Q: ... So being a paramedic what are some options because the fire departments right now aren't in need ... A: Larger police and fire agencies are indeed merging their efforts in order to provide medical ...
Question for a novel	2/1/2011
Q: I need to know what EMT's would do on a call where a man was rammed by a cow? He's made it back to ... A: Generally, regardless of the cause of blunt trauma to the chest, the treatment is fairly straight ...
EMT and anxiousness	12/13/2010
Q: I am taking an EMT Basic course in January at my college I am attending. My question is, that i ... A: First and foremost I have to admit to you and whoever else may read this; I too have been anxious. ...
EMT	10/19/2010
Q: I just recently decided that I want to become a Paramedic.I read the answer you posted to David's ... A: I earned my A.S. from the community college locally. I took all but one course online. The A and P ...
EMT	10/19/2010
Q: I just recently decided that I want to become a Paramedic.I read the answer you posted to David's ... A: First and foremost you must realize that I took my paramedic course in 1984 and a great deal has ...
Emergency Medical Technician	10/11/2010
Q: I spent 22 years as an emergency medical assistant in the Royal Air Force. this involved emergency ... A: Martyn, First and foremost sincere thanks for your service and sacrifice in the name of the freedom ...
blood pressure	9/2/2010
Q: Good day sir. I became EMT-B certified 2 months ago, and I need someone who knows what they're ... A: The BP would have a potential of doing either or both believe it or not. Compare it to how you ...
blood pressure	9/1/2010
Q: Good day sir. I became EMT-B certified 2 months ago, and I need someone who knows what they're ... A: This one is actually fairly simple to understand. It all centers on the body's ability to ...
hours	7/8/2010
Q: I am a 42 yr old single mom of 2 kids still at home and planning to start an EMT basic course when ... A: Great question! And the answer is.... YES! EMS agencies all over the nation have recognized the ...
EMT/ Paramedic training/jobs	6/21/2010
Q: I am interested in possibly training to become an EMT. I have a chronic illness called crohns ... A: I am all too familiar with your illness. I close friend of mine, an EMT by the way, has it. She has ...
emt age	6/15/2010
Q: I am 50 years old - female. Starting over; honestly, would I be hired on as an EMT if I were to go ... A: You are going to love my answer, I promise. As you know I teach EMS Courses (currently contracted ...
Wanting to become an EMT (but two little problems...)	6/7/2010
Q: I want to enter EMT training next year (as the local ones in the state I'm moving to will have ... A: Regarding your problems with vomiting and needles, you are definitely not the first person who I ...
fatal gsw versus fatal stabbing	6/4/2010
Q: writer here. I noticed you have helped other novelists, so I'm pulling up my chair. My crime novel ... A: So, on to questions: -- I think your suggestions could still work, Jim, don't you? Absolutely! The ...
fatal gsw versus fatal stabbing	6/2/2010
Q: writer here. I noticed you have helped other novelists, so I'm pulling up my chair. My crime novel ... A: I will do my best here. But I have to admit I am forced to have a little fun answering this one. ...
Finding a job	5/18/2010
Q: I graduated in September of 2008 with en EMT certificate. I have not been able to get a job, so I ... A: Unfortunately there are more EMT's out there than Paramedics. This means, obviously, that there ...
EMT	5/17/2010
Q: I've read several of your answers to other people's questions and am hoping you can help me. I'm a ... A: I will try to take this one on but I have to admit it gets a little complicated. Basically your ...
Limitations of EMT attendants	4/27/2010
Q: I am a student and I have to do research on the following: Can the EMT attendant tell a television ... A: The short and sweet answer is no, an EMT cannot tell a reporter, or anyone else for that matter, the ...
Paramedic consistent with family life? + other	4/11/2010
Q: My questions are: do you think the schedule of a paramedic allows for someone to also fulfill duties ... A: Let me tackle your questions one at a time... Your first question centers on the responsibilities ...
EMT	3/31/2010
Q: recently i have been leaning away from that and i have been thinking about being an emt. im from a ... A: I think I can answer your question best by simply pointing out the good, the bad, and the ugly. ...
Becoming an EMT	2/3/2010
Q: Jim, I am considering changing careers. My girlfriend is a nurse and still working on her ... A: First and foremost congrats on making a tough decision; you are going to better yourself and your ...
EMT student	11/5/2009
Q: I am 18 and I just recently enrolled in EMT-B classes at my community college. I decided to start ... A: I will tackle your questions in order... Regarding the lifting many agencies now have power-assist ...
Work places	11/2/2009
Q: I am considering becoming an EMT but i am curious about the difference in working situations. What ... A: Good question....there are VAST differences. And those differences can really make a difference as ...
Age limit to become a paramedic.	10/29/2009
Q: I need to know is there an age limit to train to become a paramedic? If not how would I go about ... A: The simple answer is this; the ONLY limits are those set by the individual involved. I personally ...
swat medic	10/25/2009
Q: jim, im going through paramedic school in may and will have my license a year after. im very ... A: Your first step is obviously finishing up the initial classes. Once you have all of your certs in ...
Traffic Affecting Ambulance Response Times	9/30/2009
Q: Mr. Wilson, My senior engineering course requires me to conduct research on a issue of my choice ... A: I apologize that it took me a couple of extra days to respond; I was out of town attending State EMS ...
National Registry - EMT-I 85	9/21/2009
Q: I recently successfully completed my EMT-Intermediate 85 course and took a shot at the National ... A: Don't let this result shock or deter you; the National Registry is a difficult test and many really ...
Olive Oil burn over a week	9/7/2009
Q: I burned my self over a week ago when hot olive oil splattered on my arm. It was a dark red/brown ... A: You are right on two accounts; in the first place by being very cautious about medications during ...
ayuda	8/28/2009
Q: here in Venezuela there is 1967 law that says : " in the first aid kit is forbidden to have pills, ... A: What an interesting question! While I cannot relate to the laws outside of my own area I can tell ...
Training and how to be a paramedic	8/4/2009
Q: I am currently 18 and would like to become a paramedic, I have my CPR card and would like to know ... A: Because things vary from state to state I cannot be completely certain about the age criteria for ...
Does size matter?	7/19/2009
Q: I am planning on attending emt-b training this fall and was wondering if size matters in this line ... A: Basically in the field of EMS sometimes size and overall health can come into play. Consider some of ...
EMT-Basic	5/31/2009
Q: I saw from past questions you helped a writer with a scene from her novel. I also wish to write a ... A: Once again taking this one on in the same order you asked... 1. I need the response tones (thank ...
"swalow tongue"	5/30/2009
Q: What would be my reaction when a man (not epileptic) swallows his tongue after a knock on his head? A: Simply stated, it is impossible to swallow one's own tongue, that is unless it has been bitten off. ...
EMS Education	5/29/2009
Q: What kind of certifications are there in EMS, and how long do they take to complete them? What ... A: It depends on the state you are in; some states have 2 levels of training while others have 3 or 4. ...
EMT-Basic	5/29/2009
Q: I saw from past questions you helped a writer with a scene from her novel. I also wish to write a ... A: I will take the questions on one at a time.... 1. She lives in a large city, and works for a ...
math	5/8/2009
Q: How do Emergency Medical Technicians use math? What Types of math do they use? Do they use math on a ... A: EMT Paramedics use math to calculate drug dosages, patient weight in metrics, and fluid ...
swat/medic	4/9/2009
Q: i am a volunteer firefighter in Eaton Colorado. i have been volunteering for almost three years and ... A: Your question actually centers on your own personal safety and your experience level. I am sure you ...
about becoming an emt	3/30/2009
Q: i turned 18 january 21rst and im almost done with high school. i am interested in becoming an emt. ... A: I will start my reply by telling you that everyone, at some point in their lives, has made a mistake ...
Paramedic Training	3/23/2009
Q: Well I'm in the Air Force as a medic, have been for 2 years and also a volnteer firefighter. I just ... A: My reply actually depends completely upon you. How bad do you want to be a paramedic? How hard ...
EMT Training	3/9/2009
Q: I am planning on starting college to pursue a criminal Justice degree in about a week. I have been ... A: First and foremost, you are 29 years young, not old. You are in the prime of your life at this point ...
Required size or build?	2/12/2009
Q: I have a question about the height, and weight requirements. I will be 18 in March and have wanted ... A: My answer to your question centers on a friend of mine whose name is Benet. She is about the same ...
alo	2/10/2009
Q: i just want to know how much does EMT earn? do they get paid evry Month or weeks? is it a really ... A: How much you earn depends on where you work and live, the availability of overtime, who you work ...
Eye Test?	1/31/2009
Q: I'm looking to work as an EMT. I'm partially color blind and found out when going to a physical for ... A: Great question! There are indeed some limitations to working in the field of EMS. Some of these ...
Becoming an EMT	1/23/2009
Q: I've read a lot of your answers on this site an your knowledge seems unparalleled to say the least. ... A: You are more than welcome my friend! Nothing but success to you and remember... the things in ...
What should I do?	1/22/2009
Q: My name is Kristopher. I am a volunteer firefighter in FL. I am about to graduate a fire academy ... A: Wow Kristopher, that is a tough one. Simply because you are asking me to essentially set the course ...
Becoming an EMT	1/22/2009
Q: I've read a lot of your answers on this site an your knowledge seems unparalleled to say the least. ... A: You my friend are an inspiration. So many people with ailments in their past lean on them instead of ...
I am only 15 and I want to become a EMT/Paramedic what should I do??	1/21/2009
Q: I want to become a EMT/Paramedic in Mankato,MN and I was just wondering if I should fill out a ... A: I am not sure exactly what the laws are in MN, but in all liklihood you must be 18 years of age and ...
What should I do?	1/20/2009
Q: My name is Kristopher. I am a volunteer firefighter in FL. I am about to graduate a fire academy ... A: First and foremost sincere thanks for our freedom and for your service! Now regarding your ...
Where to get a job?	1/15/2009
Q: I am 19 years old. I just completed my EMT course and I am taking my National Registry this week. I ... A: You do not necessarily have to be 21 to work as an EMT in the field; it depends on the insurance ...
ems	1/12/2009
Q: how old do you have to be to become an ems? A: Generally speaking there are three rules that apply: 1. The age to actually become an EMT is 18. ...
Grease fire burn crap!	12/18/2008
Q: Hey, a friend of mine got a burn on right index finger that extends to her thumb. Is there any thing ... A: In order to truly tell the depth and severity of the wound I would have to see it. But, without ...
EM Education Path?	12/8/2008
Q: I'm currently a freshman in college--just winding down my first semester with finals this week. I'm ... A: I love your question because, frankly, I am reading it to essentially be asking "If you knew then ...
fire question	11/20/2008
Q: My question relates more to the fire service, but I hope you can still answer it. I'm attending a ... A: In addition to my medical qualifications I am a Firefighter, a Fire Service Instructor, and a Live ...
a little confused	10/7/2008
Q: Wilson, I currrently work for the state i hold a direct care title meaning i take care of ... A: Sorry about the confusion. Let's see if we can't straighten things up a bit. First and foremost, ...
EMT study	9/23/2008
Q: I am currently deployed and plan on going to EMT school when I return home . I am currently studing ... A: In my current class I am using the 9th Edition of the AAOS text and I can tell you it is really ...
bougie intubation	9/22/2008
Q: our service is considering adding bougies to our toolbox for difficult intubations. What I am ... A: From your additional info I would say that this would be an awesome tool to add to your inventory. ...
bougie intubation	9/21/2008
Q: our service is considering adding bougies to our toolbox for difficult intubations. What I am ... A: Hey "Firemedic", Funny that you are asking this question because the fact is that my own department ...
EMT jobs	9/18/2008
Q: My name is Kris. I'm an EMT certified medic in the Air Force. I'm stationed in FL and Im attending a ... A: First and foremost sincere THANKS for our freedom. Having said the most important thing here, let's ...
EMT classes	9/17/2008
Q: I want to take classes to get my EMT certificate to eventually become a fire fighter. I am 24 years ... A: Hey Jeff, I would urge that you beware of any rapid EMT training courses out there; simply stated ...
Career opps with EMT training	9/12/2008
Q: I was wondering if there are any other opportunities in the medical field with EMT training? A ... A: It is indeed true. Some of my former students are living testimonies to this fact. In addition to ...
Help with scene in my novel	8/30/2008
Q: It is late one Sat night (around 12-ish). I have > four friends on their way back from a party they ... A: Hey Wendy, The term "taking him down" refers to the process of RSI. Basically we knock the person ...
Help with scene in my novel	8/30/2008
Q: It is late one Sat night (around 12-ish). I have > four friends on their way back from a party they ... A: Hey Wendy, Somehow the system did not alert me to your follow-up. Sorry about the delay. Anyway ...
Help with scene in my novel	8/29/2008
Q: It is late one Sat night (around 12-ish). I have > four friends on their way back from a party they ... A: I will try to help you out a bit but you need to be aware that my version of things might not match ...
to repeat or not to repeat...	8/15/2008
Q: My name is Kris I,ve been a volunteer firefighter for the past 5 months in Florida. I'm in the fire ... A: Hey Kris, First and foremost sincere thanks for what you do and for our freedom! Having said that ...
training paramedic	8/12/2008
Q: I have just finished a paramedic program,had a wonderful clinical 408 hour and achieved and was ... A: Hey Justin, Depending on where you are and where you went, you should certainly have two things ...
emt question	8/5/2008
Q: My grandson is 18 yeqars old & just joined th US Coast Guard. In one year they will send him to ... A: My deepest apologies for the delay in responding; I am afraid that I was sent out of town and had no ...
Becoming an EMT	7/30/2008
Q: I'm looking to become an EMT-B soon. I'm signed up to start classes next year. I was wondering if ... A: Hey David, Absolutely not!!! You are in the prime of your life, quite literally, and should have no ...
Becoming an EMT	7/29/2008
Q: I'm looking to become an EMT-B soon. I'm signed up to start classes next year. I was wondering if ... A: Good question....before anyone jumps into this line of work they had better know what they are ...
Emt Question	7/14/2008
Q: Is it possible that I can get my Emt license while I am a Senior in High school? A: The answer to your question actually depends on a couple of factors.... First it is up to your ...
EMT Driving Record	7/11/2008
Q: I was wondering if, in the state of California, you have to have a clean driving record to become an ... A: While I do not reside in California I feel pretty confident that my reply will hit the mark. ...
B-O-O-G-Y	7/3/2008
Q: what does this acronym stand for? A: Estella, Just out of curiosity, where did this come from? Where did you hear it? I ask this ...
Practicing as an EMT-B on Federal land	7/1/2008
Q: With only a National Registry certification is it legal to practice as an EMT-B on federal land? ... A: Hey Steve, Contact the registrar in your state and ask for a clarification for scopes of practice. ...
regina to toronto	6/9/2008
Q: She lives in Regina she wants to move to Toront where I live but she only wants to move if she does ... A: The transfer of credentials is completely dependent upon the laws of that state or region. I would ...
I am doing a career project for my science class!!!!	5/6/2008
Q: 1) do you consider EMT as a scientific job??? 2)What does the job market of an EMT look like??? A: The answer to your first question is a definite and resounding YES. EMT's are a part of the medical ...
Hey	4/15/2008
Q: How old do you have to be to take the EMT courses? A: Basically most states require that EMT's be at least 18 years of age. However some states allow ...
EMT question	4/14/2008
Q: hey I am doing a research paper on the steps to become an ER doctor and whether or not that is the ... A: While I am not a physician I can certainly attest to the incredible amount of dedication and ...
broken wrist	4/9/2008
Q: my right wirst is broken and i went to the er they said it needed surgey. the surgey went fine but i ... A: Alex, The short and sweet answer is this; since you had surgery you obviously have a doctor who is ...
Hot cooking oil - burn	4/5/2008
Q: my left arm was burned by hot cooking oil. It was more like it splashed on me. It has already been 4 ... A: It is difficult to diagnose the degree (depth/severity) of a burn via the Internet. But based on ...
education	2/15/2008
Q: I'm an EMT certified Air Force medic and I'm hoping to go to Paramedic school one day. I was just ... A: Hey Kristopher, Basically the answer to your question will actually depend on where you want to be ...
Suck at Math	1/11/2008
Q: I don't do well in math at all. Does EMT course require lots of math ? Where can i find good ... A: I will take on your questions one at a time. "Does EMT require lots of math?" The answer is ...
HEy i am doing a research for my school so can you answer some questions for me	9/6/2007
Q: i need to know the type of education and training that is required,average starting salary,trends in ... A: I will attempt to take on your question in steps here. 1. education and training that is required ...
RN to Challenge Paramedic	9/3/2007
Q: I am a RN wondering if I can challenge the paramedic boards. I have no EMT experience what so ever. ... A: Some states do indeed allow a simple transition from RN to Paramedic and so, depending on the state ...
Help in preparing to be EMT. Preparing as a teenager.	7/29/2007
Q: I am 16 right now, I'll be 17 in April and have always been semi-interested in a career as EMT, even ... A: I have been working in EMS for over 25 years and, believe it or not, I don't like the sight of ...

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Jim Wilson

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I can answer questions regarding training, education, and experiences as well as providing some incite into the world of Emergency Medical Services.

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I have over 25 years of experience in EMS, Fire, and Air Transport.

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BS, AS, EMT-P, ACLS (and instructor), BLS (and instructor), PALS (and instructor), PPC (and instructor), BTLS (and instructor), PHTLS, and NALS. Have instructed EMT and Paramedic in Florida since 1986.

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