IN THE BACK

GO BACK

This section is here to help children and families understand what happens if a child ever needs to ride in an ambulance. Going in an ambulance can feel scary or confusing, especially if it’s your first time, but knowing what to expect can help make it feel a little less overwhelming.

Here, you’ll learn about the people who will be there to help, the kinds of things they might do, and how their main job is to keep you safe, comfortable, and cared for. Everything in the back of the ambulance is there for one reason—to help you feel better and get you safely to the hospital.

If you ever need to ride in an ambulance, it’s normal to feel scared, confused, or unsure about what will happen. That’s okay! The back of the ambulance is a safe place where EMS helpers work to take care of you and help you feel better. Think of it like a small, moving doctor’s office on wheels.

When you get inside, an EMT or paramedic will introduce themselves and talk to you in a calm, friendly voice. They may ask simple questions like your name, how old you are, what happened, and where you hurt. You don’t have to know all the answers—just try your best. You can also ask questions or tell them if something feels scary or uncomfortable.

You will usually lie on a special bed called a stretcher. It has soft padding and seatbelts to keep you safe while the ambulance is moving. You might get a warm blanket to help you feel cozy, and if you have a favorite stuffed animal or toy, you can hold onto it. Sometimes a parent, caregiver, or trusted adult can ride with you, too.

The EMS crew may use some tools to check how your body is doing. A blood pressure cuff may gently squeeze your arm like a hug. A small clip might go on your finger to check how well you’re breathing. They may use a thermometer to check your temperature or place small stickers on your chest to watch your heartbeat. These tools might feel funny, but they are not meant to hurt—they help the helpers know how to take care of you.

If you need medicine, oxygen, or a bandage, the EMT or paramedic will explain what they are doing before they do it. Their job is to help you feel better, keep you comfortable, and make sure you are safe the whole time.

The ambulance might be noisy or bumpy, and you may hear sirens or see flashing lights. Those lights and sounds help the ambulance get to the hospital quickly and safely. The EMS crew will stay with you the entire ride and keep checking on you.

Remember, riding in an ambulance means people are there to help you. EMTs and paramedics care about you and want you to feel safe, supported, and brave. You are doing a great job—and they are right there with you every step of the way. 💙🚑