Paramedics are trained medical professionals who act as first responders in emergency situations where a person is sick or injured. They usually travel by ambulance, providing pre-hospital care and treatment while transporting the patient. It takes extensive study and lots of practical experience to become a paramedic – you need to know how to handle all types of emergency medical situations. Specific requirements vary from state to state, so be sure to do your research before you start studying.
Paramedics provide medical assistance to those in critical need, often in emergency situations. No two days are the same as each call out is unique in some way. Some duties performed by paramedics include providing first aid and emergency medical care, driving and operating an emergency vehicle, calming the patient and/or onlookers and replenishing medical supplies.
Paramedicine is a very tough field, in both a physical and emotional sense. Though it is rewarding, it requires a strong, passionate and motivated type of person to get up every day and perform in high stress environments. In such conditions you need to be able to make fast, informed decisions. You also need to have strong communication skills to be able to convey important medical information to colleagues, to comfort loved ones and to cope with patients who may be stressed or traumatised. A driver’s license is also a must for operating an emergency response vehicle.
Paramedics come in many different forms, often specialising in different types of emergency medical assistance. The path you choose to take will be determined by your interests or “passions” in the field of paramedicine. You will need to adjust your study to suit your aspirations.
Intensive care paramedics are required to complete a university degree in intensive care and paramedical training. Their goal is to provide a standard of care similar to an intensive care unit, whilst the patient is being transferred between point of pick up and the hospital. This initial stage is often critical, so intensive care paramedics play a huge role in ensuring patients arrive safely for further medical care.
First responders are not fully qualified paramedics, but they do help the community by working as volunteers or in private first aid companies. Becoming a first responder is a great way to get a feel for being a paramedic and figure out whether it is the right career for you!
Patient transport officers provide hospital transport for patients who are immobile or lack mobility. They pick up patients who need hospital attention but are not in an emergency situation. To become a patient transport officer, you need to have a Certificate III in Non-Emergency Patient Transport.
Training requirements for paramedics vary between states, but they will also differ depending on the specialisation you pursue.
There are a number of different entry-level health care courses available that can enable you to work in a support position or as a first responder.
Once you know that you want to be a paramedic, you can undertake a bachelor degree or whatever qualification is required in your state.
You may want to specialise in a certain type of paramedicine. To work as an intensive care paramedic, you will need to undertake extra training in intensive care.
In order to work as a qualified paramedic, you will need to meet the requisite qualification and training levels for the position and your state. Use our resources below to find information about paramedicine in your state or territory.
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