At St. Francois County Ambulance District, the B-shift crew recently swapped their emergency gear for board games during a special game night hosted by EMS Supervisor Jessica Chitwood designed to build morale and strengthen relationships within the team.

Fun Amidst the Fast-Paced World of EMS

Emergency medical services (EMS) are critical and often involve high-stress levels. To provide a much-needed break and promote team bonding, the B-shift crew hosted a game night that proved enjoyable and a testament to their dedication to their roles. Despite the light-hearted competition, all crews were still on duty and ready to respond to emergencies at a moment’s notice.

The Games of the Night

The selection of games mirrored the variety of skills required in EMS work:

Jenga: As players decide which block to remove, they must assess the tower’s stability. Similarly, EMS providers must assess situations to determine the best action under pressure.
Phase 10: Players must adapt their strategies based on the cards they receive and the actions of others. While we cannot control the hand we are dealt, paramedics and EMTs must remain dynamic during unpredictable medical emergencies.
Ticket to Ride: Managing limited train cars to achieve goals teaches resource management, a skill paramedics use when managing supplies and equipment. This game requires the player to zoom out and assess the situation from a higher level.
Uno No Mercy: We aren’t going to lie; this game sometimes became intense as players attempted to sabotage their opponents. That said, it brought many laughs amongst all who played.
Tumblin’ Dice: This game requires a very light touch and precision and fosters a friendly, competitive spirit while practicing decision-making. Players weigh the risks vs. benefits to determine whether they should try to score points or knock the other players off the board.
Magnets: Just as magnets attract and repel, paramedics need to understand the forces at play in their environment, whether interacting with patients, bystanders, or colleagues.

Community and Camaraderie

The crew enjoyed a selection of foods and desserts brought by team members, adding a sense of community and family to the event. Each game allowed members to bond, share experiences, and support each other in a relaxed setting. This camaraderie is essential, as these professionals often face challenging situations together.

Always on Call

The seamless integration of duty and play made this game night unlike most. While crew members were relaxed and having fun, they were still on duty and ready to leave immediately to attend to 911 calls. Several crews had to leave on more than one occasion to respond to emergencies, but they immediately returned to join the fun, ready to pick up where they left off.

Conclusion

This event was more than just a night of games; it reinforced the strong bonds that make the St. Francois County Ambulance District team resilient and reliable. It highlighted how, even in the most stressful jobs, taking time to connect and enjoy each other’s company is not just beneficial; it’s necessary. The game night’s success at SFCAD is an inspiring reminder of the power of team spirit and the importance of balancing hard work with moments of joy and relaxation.