To see the job on TV, it’s all about heroes, gratitude, drinking and sex. People need to know it’s just not like that.  – Canadian paramedic

The work life of a paramedic is very different from that of most people. The general public's view of a paramedic's role and day-to-day experiences is influenced to some extent by the media. However, TV dramas usually distort the real nature of paramedic work.

You may have some general ideas about the job – responding to emergency calls, providing medical treatment, and transporting to hospital. This chapter will help you to separate the myths from the realities.