Paramedics are usually the first at the scene of all emergencies. Their job is to assess the situation for the medical needs of the patient and to provide emergency care before transporting the patient to the hospital. They must be strong, brave people who work under intense pressure and at times risk their own health to save the lives of others. People’s lives depend on the ability, speed and sound judgement needed by the paramedic.
Duties of a paramedic :
- Assess patients for the extent of injury or illness
- Collect patient information before treatments
- Give emergency medical care
- Administer medications
- Transport patients to hospitals and inform medical staff of history and medical conditions of the patients
- Maintain their equipment and keep the ambulance well-stocked with supplies
- Report on the emergency and care that was given
Work Requirements:
A Paramedic works under intense situations. They work both indoors and outdoors, usually travelling between emergency situations. They are exposed to violence and mentally ill patients. They risk disease from infected patients. Paramedics work long hours and should have strong physical strength for the manuovering of patients.
Types of Work Environments:
- Hospitals
- Fire departments
- Industrial settings
- Private services
- Government services
Personality Requirements:
- Desire to help people in time of need
- Patient and compassionate person
- Have good memory skills and quick assessing and judgements skills
- Works well under pressure
- Strong communication skills
- Strong and physically fit
Education: 2-3 years post-secondary
College Diploma in Ambulance, Emergency Care or Paramedics followed by a supervised practical training period.
Certification
- Ontario: Must pass Emergency Medical Care Assistant (E.M.C.A.) exams
Courses taken during high school which will assist you in a career as a paramedic:
- Chemistry Math
- Sciences
- Math
- English
- First Aid
Job placement – after 2-3 years of post-secondary education your chances of finding a job are considered - Good
Currently there are more job openings than people to fill them. Demand is increasing due to the growing population, health care funding and need for more on-scene medical attention. Demand will grow because of an increase in urban living and stress-induced turnover among employees.
Wages:
Average annual income: $35,000 to $45,000
Links:
Paramedic Association of Canada
http://www.paramedic.ca
Land Ambulance Transition (Ontario)
http://www.amo-ehs.com
Ontario Paramedic Association
http://www.ontarioparamedic.ca
Toronto Emergency Medical Services
http://www.city.toronto.on.ca/ems
Job Futures: Paramedics
http://jobfutures.ca/noc/3234.shtml
