Sarah Swanson brings a remarkable, full-spectrum perspective to emergency medical instruction, seamlessly bridging the gap between dynamic prehospital rescue and advanced in-hospital critical care. Certified as an EMT since 2016 through Skagit County Medic One, they built a strong frontline foundation working in private ambulance services and as a dedicated volunteer with the Lake Cavanaugh Fire Department—an agency they proudly continue to serve today. In 2020, Sarah vastly expanded their clinical expertise by becoming a Registered Nurse (RN), delivering high-acuity, patient-centered care in demanding progressive care and surgical Intensive Care Unit (ICU) settings. Driven by a lifelong passion for 911 response, they stepped into the role of a career Firefighter/EMT in 2023. For students, Sarah’s unique dual background in critical care nursing and active fire service provides an unparalleled understanding of the entire patient journey, teaching learners how field interventions directly impact patient survival from the initial 911 call to the ICU doors.
The Journey to Remote Medicine
I’ve always been drawn to environments where access to care is limited and adaptability is essential. Through EMS, fire service, and critical care nursing, I’ve seen how resource availability directly impacts outcomes. Remote medicine appeals to me because it requires strong assessment skills, autonomy, and the ability to deliver high-quality care with limited support. I’m motivated by the challenge of practicing at the top of my scope while serving communities or teams in settings where preparedness, prevention, and sound clinical judgment truly matter.
Specialized Industries
EMS
Pre-hospital and Mobile Care
Acute Care Nursing
Critical Care Nursing
Fire EMS Safety and Rescue
Urban Healthcare and Clinic
I am a big fan of traveling. I love going to new places, seeing new mountains and oceans and meeting people from all over the world.
Teaching Philosopy
I approach teaching medical skills with a fun, supportive, and hands-on style. As a tactile learner myself, I understand the value of physically practicing skills rather than just hearing or reading about them. I incorporate scenario-based training, repetition, and interactive demonstrations to help students build muscle memory and real-world confidence. I also use creative memory aids and practical frameworks to make complex concepts easier to retain under stress.
My goal is for every student to leave feeling confident, capable, and successful in their patient care. I want them not only to understand the material, but to trust their assessment skills, think critically, and perform interventions safely and effectively when it matters most.
Why I Choose to Teach
What drives me to share my knowledge with the next generation of remote medical providers is the understanding that, in isolated and resource-limited settings, competence and confidence can mean the difference between life and death. Having worked in high-acuity environments, I know how overwhelming it can feel to make critical decisions without immediate backup. I want future providers to feel prepared, supported, and capable when they face those moments alone.
I am motivated by the responsibility to pass on not just clinical skills, but judgment, adaptability, and compassion. Remote medicine demands creativity, calm under pressure, and strong assessment skills. If I can help shape providers who think critically, act decisively, and lead with empathy, then I am strengthening care far beyond my own reach.
Professional Certifications & Licensures
NREMT
Registered Nurse