Sleep deprivation can have detrimental effects on our performance. Many providers in EMS work overnights and rotating shifts, have multiple jobs, and feel the effects of sleep deprivation on a regular basis. How does this affect our patient care, and influence our interactions with peers and family? In addition to the effects on our professional and personal lives, providers are at high risk for injuries and motor vehicle accidents when sleep deprived. In this presentation, we will explore some self-care strategies to diminish the effect of sleep deprivation, reduce medical errors, and decrease stress on our personal relationships.
Learning Objectives:

Upon completion, participants will be able to list three problems that can commonly result from sleep deprivation in EMS, either at work, or in their personal lives.
Upon completion, participants will be able to describe three methods to combat sleep deprivation in EMS.
Upon completion, participants will define three self-care strategies in order to decompress and foster better relationships in their personal life.