In today’s episode, I interviewed Paramedic Kalinowski. We discussed how medical ethics plays a role in his job as a paramedic and how he navigates dilemmas involving it, the idea of learning more skills in the EMS field only once having patient interaction, and so much more. I hope you enjoy today’s episode!

Meet Paramedic Kalinowski – Emergency Medicine Memoirs

CS Kalinowski explains how in the field, medical ethics are something that EMS professionals deal with on a day-to-day basis. However, in light of recent events, the EMS community has started to see some backlash for poorly made decisions that reflect moments of medical ethicality. For example, he emphasizes how important it is that no matter the situation, whether emergent or non-emergent, it is critical that medical advice on decisions is taken only from medical professionals, not police officers, firefighters, or any other individuals. He also discusses how he considers the medical bill that comes into place when dealing with different priority-level cases and how to make those decisions in the patient’s best interest. He adds the idea of sedating an individual is a hot topic for medical ethics in the EMS profession, considering it is a medical tool that fully takes away someone’s rights. When one has a powerful tool, it is crucial to utilize it in the best way possible as, at the point of administering it, it is someone’s life fully in their hands.

CS Kalinowski also discusses how over time, with more repeated and continuous exposure to patients and dealing with patient interaction, many more skills are acquired in the emergency medical services field. It is a profession where you learn from others, your peers, and your superiors. One specific group of people that CS Kalinowski points out is the extremely tenured medics. According to him, these EMS professionals have vast amounts of knowledge and information cultivated over time, allowing them to support the EMTs newer to the field or anyone who might have any unsureness about the patient’s condition or treatments.

In the end, today’s conversation with CS Kalinowski sheds light on the intricate interplay between medical ethics and the demanding reality of EMS work. As we navigate through the complexities of decision-making in emergency situations, it becomes evident that adherence to ethical principles is important. Moreover, his emphasis on the continuous learning process within the EMS community highlights the invaluable role of experienced professionals in guiding and supporting their colleagues.