Smoking / Tobacco in EMS

[Matt]

I would like to take a look at the topic of tobacco usage in EMS. Do you smoke? Did you smoke before getting into EMS or was it a progression that came along with job? What is your agencies policies regarding tobacco usage while at work? Do you agree or disagree with those policies?

[coldlogic]

OK Matt, I have been a Paramedic since '88, smoking has been a progression up to two packs a day, I have tried several times to quit, but for some reason I get put into dispatch at those times and does not do any good. Patience is a must in our business but not in dispatch. The problem is not call taking or EMD, it is dealing with those few who like to complain because they have to work for their paycheck.

[ambulancedealer]

I have always smoked. There are days that I smoke more than others due to high call volume or stress. I don't think that I could quit until I got out of EMS now. It would be bad for EVERYBODY

[dshuell]

My opinion is that there is something to be said about the image that a medic, smoking, causes with the public's perception of patient care. I'm not saying that a medic who smokes is less competent. I am only speaking on a "perception" level, particularly by the patients who are non-smokers/anti-smokers. It is worth debate at the very least; I believe.

[Matt]

Originally Posted by dshuell

My opinion is that there is something to be said about the image that a medic, smoking, causes with the public's perception of patient care. I'm not saying that a medic who smokes is less competent. I am only speaking on a "perception" level, particularly by the patients who are non-smokers/anti-smokers. It is worth debate at the very least; I believe.

I agree. The public perception of EMS as a profession is based upon brief public observations / encounters they have with us. What message are we sending if we are seen standing around next our ambulances smoking?

[ambulancedealer]

thats very true. I have never thought of it that way simply because its my business if I smoke. But if it makes it any better, I always have breath mints, gum, and smell good stuff.

[Matt]

Originally Posted by ambulancedealer

thats very true. I have never thought of it that way simply because its my business if I smoke. But if it makes it any better, I always have breath mints, gum, and smell good stuff.

Its one thing to make an effort to cover it up, but unfortunately not everyone is so considerate. I took calls from patients more than once stating the tech taking care them smelled like an ashtray causing them to feel worse... one even claimed it induced an asthma attack.