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National Registry Paramedic Refresher Requirements

The national registry requires specific information to be taught during paramedic refresher courses. Cardiology, pediatrics and trauma are included among the information taught during a paramedic refresher course. The use of medication and medical procedures, such as chest decompression, are taught. The refresher course includes all of the necessary information and allows paramedics to refresh their memory regarding information and techniques that are not used on a regular basis.

  1. Finding an Accredited Refresher Course

    • Paramedics must successfully complete an accredited refresher course in order to maintain their national registry certification. Accredited courses are available both online and in a traditional classroom environment. The National Registry website contains a list of accredited programs that are acceptable for re-certification. Some refresher courses may require medics to pass both a written and practical skills exam prior to receiving credit for the course.

    Required practical skills exam

    • Skills such as interpreting heart rhythms may be included in the practical skills exam.

      Practical skills exams are used to evaluate a paramedic's ability to use equipment as well as her critical thinking ability. The national registry organization will determine which sets of skills will be tested at the end of the refresher course. All practical exam skill stations must be passed to receive credit and renew at the national registry level. Practical exams may also include a written exam containing questions about the material taught during the refresher program.

    Continuing Education

    • Continuing-education requirements needed to renew a paramedic's national registry certification can be logged online. Each time a paramedic fulfills one of the continuing-education requirements, he can log on to the national registry website and enter the course information into the system. This allows paramedics to track their continuing-education hours, which can help simplify the renewal process. Obtain certificates of completion for all continuing-education classes attended. Mail copies of all certificates of completion along with the national registry renewal application to keep the certification current.

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