Chapter 2: Workforce Safety and Wellness

What is wellness?

The active pursuit of a state of good health.

What is resilience?

The ability to cope with and recover from distress.

What is eustress?

Positive stress that improves focus, energy, and job satisfaction.

What is distress?

Negative stress that causes harmful physical and emotional responses.

How many hours of sleep should adults get each night?

7-9 hours.

What are three components of health?

Physical, mental, and emotional health.

What is one of the most important ways to increase resilience?

Maintain healthy relationships with family and friends.

Name another way to build resilience.

Exercise regularly and practice mindfulness.

What type of diet is recommended for EMTs?

A healthy, balanced diet.

How much physical activity is recommended each week?

At least 30 minutes of moderate or vigorous exercise 5 days per week.

Why is exercise important for EMTs?

It improves physical fitness and helps manage stress.

What are three types of exercise EMTs should perform?

Cardiovascular endurance, strength training, and flexibility.

What is the best fluid for hydration?

Water.

What foods provide reliable long-term energy?

Complex carbohydrates such as rice, pasta, and vegetables.

What can excessive fat intake lead to?

Obesity, heart disease, and other chronic illnesses.

What is one strategy to reduce stress?

Identify and eliminate stressors when possible.

Another stress management strategy?

Talk about your feelings with trusted people.

When should an EMT seek professional counseling?

When stress becomes overwhelming or unmanageable.

Why should EMTs avoid excessive overtime?

It contributes to fatigue and stress.

Why should EMTs develop interests outside EMS?

To improve work-life balance and reduce stress.

Why should caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco be limited?

They can worsen stress and health problems.

What percentage of EMS providers get less than six hours of sleep?

About half.

What are short-term effects of sleep deprivation?

Medical errors, vehicle crashes, and poor decision-making.

What are long-term effects of sleep deprivation?

Hypertension, diabetes, depression, sleep apnea, and other chronic illnesses.

How long should an on-duty nap be?

20-30 minutes.

How many hours should EMS shifts ideally be?

Less than 24 hours.

How long before bedtime should caffeine and nicotine be avoided?

At least 4 hours.

Describe an ideal sleep environment.

Dark, quiet, and cool.

Why should heavy meals be avoided before bedtime?

They interfere with sleep quality.

Should you maintain a regular sleep schedule?

Yes, keep sleep and wake times consistent.

Why is natural light important?

It helps regulate healthy sleep-wake cycles.

What is disease prevention?

Actions that reduce or prevent disease.

What is health promotion?

Personal habits that improve overall health.

What health problems are associated with smoking?

Cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, and cancer.

What cancers are associated with smokeless tobacco?

Mouth, throat, and pancreatic cancer.

What health problems can vaping cause?

Cardiovascular and respiratory disease.

What is the first step in quitting nicotine?

Create a plan and set a quit date.

What is considered moderate alcohol intake for women?

One drink per day.

What is considered moderate alcohol intake for men?

Two drinks per day.

Which body systems are affected by excessive alcohol use?

Cardiovascular, liver, immune, and nervous systems.

What cancers are associated with excessive alcohol use?

Mouth, throat, breast, esophagus, and liver.

Can prescription medications be abused?

Yes.

Why do many EMS agencies drug test employees?

To ensure safe patient care and workplace safety.

How can EMTs maintain work-life balance?

Rotate schedules, take vacations, and seek help when needed.

When should an EMT seek help for stress?

When stress becomes more than they can manage.

What is one benefit of mindfulness?

It improves resilience and reduces stress.

Why is adequate hydration important?

It improves physical and mental performance.

What type of stress improves performance?

Eustress.

What type of stress negatively affects health?

Distress.