What skills and training do you need in order to get a paramedic job?

Skills

* Clinical skills: Paramedics must be able to assess patients, diagnose medical conditions, and administer emergency care. These skills include:

* Airway management

* CPR

* Defibrillation

* Intravenous therapy

* Medication administration

* Trauma care

* Communication skills: Paramedics must be able to communicate effectively with patients, their families, and other healthcare professionals. They must be able to:

* Listen actively

* Speak clearly and concisely

* Build rapport

* Provide clear instructions

* Critical thinking skills: Paramedics must be able to think critically and make decisions quickly in high-stress situations. They must be able to:

* Assess the situation quickly and accurately

* Develop a treatment plan

* Prioritize care

* Adapt to changing circumstances

* Problem-solving skills: Paramedics must be able to solve problems creatively and effectively. They must be able to:

* Identify the problem

* Generate solutions

* Implement the best solution

* Evaluate the outcome

* Teamwork skills: Paramedics work as part of a team, including other paramedics, EMTs, and nurses. They must be able to:

* Cooperate with others

* Share information

* Support each other

* Resolve conflicts

Training

Paramedics must complete a paramedic training program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). These programs typically take 12 to 24 months to complete and include coursework in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and emergency medical care.

In addition to completing an accredited training program, paramedics must also pass a national certification exam. The National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) offers two certification exams: the EMT-Basic exam and the Paramedic exam. Paramedics must pass both exams to become certified.

Once certified, paramedics must complete continuing education courses every two years to maintain their certification. These courses help paramedics stay up-to-date on the latest advances in emergency medical care.