Could I be a Paramedic?
When you’re driving, how often do you see the flashing red lights and blazing siren of an ambulance go roaring by? It's a constant reminder of the importance of paramedics, those first responders who rush into emergencies and save lives. There is certainly an allure to becoming a paramedic as well. It's an unpredictable job that's as essential as a doctor's or nurse's. But unlike becoming a doctor or nurse, you don't need to spend several years in higher education to become a paramedic.
There is always a need for new paramedics, which makes it a rapidly growing field. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the number of paramedic jobs is expected to grow by 24% by 2024. If you are considering becoming a paramedic, here is a guide to help you understand the skills and preparation you will need to get started in this career.
What level of education do I need to become a paramedic?
To start your paramedic training, you need a high school diploma or a GED. However, you do need to acquire an associate's degree in emergency medical services. To earn this degree, according to the US Department of Transportation, you will undergo a rigorous training program that involved about 1,000 total hours of classroom instruction, in-hospital clinical training, and internship/externship.
Are there any traits that will help me as a paramedic?
Being a paramedic is a high-pressure job. Other peoples' lives will literally be in your hands. While the stakes and importance of the job might be a selling point to you, you do need to be prepared for the stress levels that come with being a paramedic. If you know you can handle life-or-death situations, it will help you tremendously.
Compassion, level-headedness, and the ability to talk to people in highly stressful scenarios will also help you. There are times when you will need to calm someone who is suffering from a medical emergency, and keeping calm yourself while helping them understand what needs to be done to help them is essential.
Being a good listener will also make a difference. Listen to patients to fully understand what's wrong can make a huge difference in a given situation. Keep in mind, some patients might not be able to communicate their problems clearly.
What skills will I need to begin training?
CPR certification is a prerequisite to becoming a paramedic, and one of the most essential skills to have on the job. Some programs offer CPR certification in their classes; others require you to be certified beforehand. If your program doesn't offer CPR certification, you can find classes and get certified by the American Red Cross and the American Heart Association.
Are there any other prerequisites to becoming a paramedic
Here are a few other things to consider before applying to a paramedic program:
- Paramedics go through a background check and a drug screening. If you have any felonies or a history of drug use on your record, it will likely prevent you from getting a paramedic job.
- Other checks may include your driving history, your credit history, and mental health history. If you are or were in the armed forces, any military disciplinary history you might have will also be checked.
- You will need to have and provide proof of a full slate of inoculations (PPD, tetanus, Hepatitis B, and Varicella titer, commonly known as chicken pox).
- You may be required to pass a physical agility exam.
How can a paramedic school help me?
EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) certification is required for anyone hoping to become a paramedic. A good associates degree program will allow you to be eligible for certification once you complete your degree. Getting the training you need and certification in one simple step can help streamline to process of becoming a paramedic.
Do you think you have what it takes to become a paramedic? If you want to help save lives earning an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Emergency Medical Services could be the start to a new career. ECPI University offers this degree in an accelerated format with year-round classes, allowing students to graduate sooner. For more information about this exciting career path, contact a friendly admissions advisor today.
It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!
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