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. Based on their assessment, Paramedics will provide emergency care to adults, infants, and children, including medical and trauma patients. They determine the appropriate facility for patient transport based on their knowledge of the patient's condition and the extent of their injuries, unless otherwise indicated by medical direction. While en route to the emergency facility, Paramedics constantly assess the patient and administer additional care as indicated or directed by medical direction. They may use equipment included in medical transport environments. Paramedics 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 to the receiving facility staff for records and diagnostics. They maintain communication with the receiving facility to get medical direction and provide patient status and other critical information. Paramedics complete extensive written documentation on patient condition and treatment provided, and understand all applicable legal, moral, and ethical issues surrounding emergency medical service. They maintain communication with the patient and family, offer comfort and reassurance, and demonstrate concern and courtesy while maintaining patient confidentiality. Paramedics 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. Physical activities include considerable use of arms and legs, and moving of the whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials. They attend training classes to maintain national certification, state licensure, and stay updated on new developments in the field. Depending on the position's location, work hours will vary based on patient needs, which may include overtime, call, backup call, nights, days, weekends, and holidays. 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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Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
High school or GED