How To Become A Paramedic: Training & Education

Paramedics are the people who are responsible of taking care of injured patients in a high stress environment. They are usually called on by a 911 dispatcher or a medical emergencies medical team in order to help in assessing a patient’s need. They also make sure that the patient arrives safely to the hospital. Emergency medical technicians may obtain their training at a specialized paramedic school or at a community college. They begin with basic training that is followed by at least a year of working on an ambulance truck. The training programs for advanced emergency medical technicians usually require about 18 to 24 months to finish. Graduates of paramedic training will be able to explore a vast variety of career opportunities.

Work Conditions:

The work conditions for paramedics are varied. As an emergency worker, you may find yourself working all kinds of weather conditions, including out door and indoor scenarios. You will be required to do a considerable amount of bending, stooping, lifting and kneeling. A lot of people find the work of being an emergency worker quite challenging but rewarding. They feel satisfied knowing that they are helping to save lives every day. Paramedics who are employed by hospitals work anywhere from 40 to 60 hours a week. Those emergency professionals who work at a fire department may work anywhere from 50 to 60 hours a week. Those paramedics who work at a private ambulance company may work 60 to 70 hours a week.

Training For Paramedics:

The training for these emergency workers will vary for each state. All 50 states have a certification procedure. Advanced emergency medical technicians must register every two years. In order for you to register as a paramedic, you must already be working as an emergency medical technician. You must also meet the continuing educational requirements. Your basic coursework will put special emphasis on emergency skills, such as managing trauma, respiratory issues, and cardiac emergencies. You will also be required to do effective patient assessment. Formal courses will often be combined with on site training at a hospital or on an ambulance truck.

The training program will also provide instruction for dealing with fractures, airway obstruction, and bleeding, as well as cardiac emergencies. You will learn how to use oxygen delivery systems, splints, suction devices, and stretchers. Graduates of emergency medical technician training programs will pass a written and practical examination that is administered by the state. This will eventually end up in certification with the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians. This course is definitely a requirement for the EMT-Intermediate level and the Paramedic training level.

The Intermediate training level will vary from state to state. The training for the intermediate level is typically going to be anywhere from 35 to 60 hours of additional instruction, beyond the basic level. Job opportunities for experienced emergency medical technicians are expected grow faster than average for all other occupations through 2018. Urbanization and population growth are expected to increase the demand for full time paramedics and  emergency medical technicians. Also, the aging baby boomers are expected to add to the demand for skilled paramedics.

Opportunities for those who have advanced certification are best, as there will be many hospitals and ambulance companies looking to hire new emergency workers. A paramedic education can provide you with the fundamental training and knowledge necessary to manage patients in a high stress setting. While many paramedics are found working for the Emergency Medical Services system, others choose to further their careers by attending a medical college and becoming physician’s assistants. Some common career options for emergency workers include dispatcher, hospital paramedic, clinical auditor, EMS paramedic, and emergency medical director.