Job profile/ description/responsibilities
The main work of a paramedic is to carry out any emergency treatment that a patient may need in case of an accident or any such incident. He should then transport the patient to a clinic or hospital for further advanced treatment. The paramedic also requires filing all the records of the treatment given and then passing them over to the hospital or the clinic staff for further investigation. This way there is no confusion and the patient gets the best possible medical attention.
Requirements
A paramedic is usually a cool headed and a patient individual. A paramedic should not panic under any circumstances. In fact, he should be able to handle a situation like a true leader and a winner. The panic stricken accident victims and patients look toward him for reassurance.
Academics
The first step to becoming a paramedic is to have a basic license of an Emergency Medical technician. The three levels of EMT are basic, intermediate and paramedic. A basic requirement of EMT is to specialize in CPR. An EMT basic level course is of three months and the fees vary from institute to institute. Most programs need you to have studied advanced human anatomy and physiology. Getting through the national paramedic exam is very essential.
Skill Set
A prerequisite of a paramedic is to work well under pressure and give a maximum level of comfort to people in distress until they reach a hospital. They need to be a quick thinker too. Another very important skill set is the team work. A paramedic has to work closely with an ambulance technician and the hospital staff. A paramedic should be able to be transported to the site of the accident through a normal ambulance, motorbikes, on foot, or even by an air ambulance.
Training
Law enforcement training will equip the paramedic professionals better. A full fledged training is rendered during the induction program. This helps the professionals in managing any situation that may occur.
Prior Experience
Prior experience will definitely help you in taking up jobs in the future. Some colleges require evidence of a specific number of calls in a year for the advanced paramedic course too.
Employment Prospects
The employment prospects of paramedics are extremely bright. As the states are facing a paramedic shortage there are ample job opportunities available. You may even be surprised with multiple offers for you.
Salary
A paramedic is a well paid job. A median probable salary of a paramedic is about forty thousand dollars per annum along with some other perks.
Conclusion
A paramedic's job is certainly a job that will give you a lot of satisfaction and meaning to your occupation. Serve as a paramedic and make a positive difference to people's life!