Paramedics demonstrate competency in trauma and medical situations and possess the knowledge and the necessary skills to provide lifesaving interventions in a pre-hospital setting. They administer emergency care and treatment, determine the nature and extent of illness or injury, and establish priority for required emergency care. Paramedics provide advanced medical care to patients, requiring complex knowledge and skills for patient care and transportation. They may assist and give direction to additional Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Responders at the scene and/or during transport. Paramedics, based on their assessment, will provide emergency care to adults, infants and children, medical and trauma patients. They determine the appropriate facility for patient transport based on their knowledge of the patient's condition and extent of injuries, unless otherwise indicated by medical direction. While en route to the emergency facility, they constantly assess the patient and administer additional care as indicated or given by medical direction. Paramedics may use equipment included in the medical transport environments. They observe, record, and report the patient's condition or injury, the treatment provided, and reactions to drugs or treatment to the physician at the emergency scene and in transit to the receiving facility staff for records and diagnostics. Paramedics will demonstrate good communication with the receiving facility to get medical direction and to provide patient's status and other critical information. They complete extensive written documentation on patient condition and treatment provided, and understand all applicable legal, moral, and ethical issues surrounding emergency medical service. Paramedics maintain communication with the patient and family, comfort and reassure patients, and demonstrate concern and courtesy while maintaining patient confidentiality. They assist with patient care in the receiving facility, including lifting and moving patients as required. They also provide a welcoming and educational environment for students and complete academic assessments in a timely fashion. If hired into an emergency department, the paramedic will work collaboratively with the nursing team under the direction and supervision of the attending physician. The paramedic may perform EKGs and cardiac monitoring, assist with patient triage, perform and maintain IV therapy, respiratory management and therapy, orthopedic splinting, basic wound management, and any other skills and assessments as directed by the attending physicians. Paramedics can perform all hospital-approved skills and procedures under the direction of the attending physician within their scope of practice.
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Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
High school or GED
Number of Employees
5,001-10,000 employees