Required Training Courses to Become a Paramedic

Paramedics play an important role as part of the emergency medical services (EMS) team which treats patients in emergency situations. Paramedics are trained to provide pre-hospital medical care to patients in order to stabilize them so they can be transported to a hospital. They work for fire departments, hospitals, emergency medical services or ambulance services. Paramedic must complete a training program which consists of classroom, lab and field work.

Types

Paramedic training consists of three levels: EMT-Basic, EMT-Intermediate and EMT-Paramedic. EMT-Basic training teaches students how to provide basic emergency services, including CPR, bandaging and taking vital signs. EMT-Intermediate training consists of more advanced level courses, including pharmacology, trauma and patient assessment and pediatric emergencies. EMT-Paramedic training prepares students to perform a broad range of pre-hospital medical care procedures, including treating cardiac arrest, administering drugs and IVs and medical assessments.

Function

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) developed a Paramedic National Standard Curriculum for paramedic training courses that was published in 1985. Paramedic training programs that adhere to these standards provide trainees with the necessary skills to carry out their duties. Paramedic training programs should include advanced courses in anatomy and physiology that prepare students to assess a patient's health. Advanced courses in CPR, first aid, cardiology and life support give students the necessary skills to provide pre-hospital care in emergency situations.

Geography

The Board of Emergency Medical Services or the Department of Health in each state sets standards and approves state certifications for paramedics. While training requirements are different in each state, most states require applicants to complete a state-approved paramedic training program or have an associate degree in emergency medical service or a related medical field. Paramedics must also have a current CPR certification. A passing score on the national certification exam administered by the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) is also required by most states to obtain a license.

Time Frame

Paramedic training programs are typically two years, including up to a year of internship work. Paramedics who are applying for their national certification with NREMT have up to two years after graduating to apply and pass the certification exam or risk having to repeat the training to qualify for certification. Paramedics are also expected to take continuing education courses every two years to renew their certification.

Considerations

Paramedics must be able to handle the stressful, traumatic and life-threatening situations they assist their patients with on a daily basis. The ability to stay focused, solve problems and remain calm is vital to their success in this job.

References

• Occupational Outlook Handbook-Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics
• NREMT-Paramedic Certification
• Encyclopedia of Death and Dying-Emergency Medical Technicians

Resources

• Paramedic School Training