Emergency Response Workers

Exhausting Shifts

EMS workers work long, irregular hours because there is a 24 hour a day need for emergency services. Long shifts insufficient time between shifts to recuperate can lead to worker exhaustion. Signs of exhaustion include:

• Disorientation and difficulty communicating.
• Difficulty remembering instructions.
• Difficulty maintaining balance.
• Difficulty making decisions and problem solving.
• Unnecessary risk taking.
• Tremors, headaches and nausea.
• Tunnel vision and muffled hearing.
• Colds or flu-like symptoms.
• Limited attention span and difficulty concentrating.
• Loss of objectivity.
• Inability to relax when off duty.
• Refusal to follow orders or leave the scene.
• Increased use of drugs or alcohol.
• Unusual clumsiness.

Ways to manage exhaustion include:

• Exercising and stretching muscles when possible.
• Eating well and avoiding excessive junk food, caffeine, alcohol, or tobacco.
• Getting sufficient sleep and rest.
• Maintaining contact with primary social supports.
• Taking deep breaths, meditating, and walking mindfully.
• Talking about emotions and reactions with coworkers.
• Learning to recognize and heed early warning signs of exhaustion.
• Avoiding overly identifying with survivors and victims.
• Recognizing when personal loss interferes with effectiveness.