How do you react when in a dangerous environment? Usually, people tend to freeze due to immense shock and are unable to help someone in need. Very few people stay calm and collected in unpredictable and threatening situations. If you consider yourself one of those few, you could be the one to save lives in emergencies. However, this requires a fully qualified person with an extensive medical background such as a paramedic. In this text, you will find more about this job and what it takes to have a career in this profession and Becoming A Paramedic.
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What does a paramedic do, Becoming A Paramedic?
A paramedic is a person that responds to 911 calls and arrives to provide medical assistance. They are trained to react in urgent situations where a patient is unwell or injured. Firstly, they assess the state of the patient and evaluate the level of life-threatening injuries or conditions. According to the diagnosis, they give adequate treatment until the patient is transported to a hospital or emergency room for further care. The medical treatments usually involve giving medication, resuscitation, inserting IVs, treating wounds, and working with ventilation devices for air support. Upon arriving at the emergency room, paramedics should report the symptoms to the doctor and the treatment they gave to the patient.
What training is required?
It takes an extensive education path to become a paramedic. If you are interested in this profession, consider dedicating several years to learning and training. Your development starts with enrolling in a Bachelor’s program in Paramedic Science/Practice. Years spent on the programs depend on the country and the university you have chosen. It lasts from two to four years. The job is challenging and so is the program. It prepares you for intense and stressful environments and trains you to react swiftly. You will learn everything about medication, how to treat different injuries and medical conditions.
While studying, you can start your practice as an apprentice in a paramedics team. It will give you a genuine experience of what it’s like to be on the front line. Working both day and night shifts with a team will test your mental and physical ability to keep up.
However, your education never stops because you need to refresh your skills from time to time and be on top of your game. For instance, you have to renew your CPR and First Aid certification regularly. Dedication to paramedics requires you to update your certifications. Fortunately, you can do a lot of your training online and balance it with your busy days. Click here to find out where you can take first aid and CPR courses online.
Am I the right person for it?
This profession takes a lot of physical and mental strength. Seeing horrific injuries and people in distress can take a toll on people so it is not for everybody. You need to be physically prepared to move patients from their current location to the paramedic vehicle. It is difficult so paramedics work in teams. They help each other so they are efficient and transport the patient to a hospital as fast as possible. Also, they work together to make the best diagnosis and properly administer medical help. This is why mental alertness and concentration should be on a high level. A paramedic should have a clear mind at all times and work well under pressure.
Moreover, having excellent communication skills is essential. Paramedics have to listen to the patients carefully and ask the right questions so they can give proper treatment based on the symptoms. Also, having compassion and understanding when patients and their friends or family are in emotional distress. They are going through a shock so medical professionals should be kind and patient with them. They will help them calm down and make the communication much clearer. A paramedic is required to have open communication with doctors at the hospital upon arrival. Time is of great importance in healthcare so it is crucial to record everything regarding a patient and inform a doctor.
To conclude
If you checked out almost all the points from this article, then you are suitable to start your journey in paramedics. As mentioned, you should have strong stamina to work in such an environment. Remember that you would be able to help many people in need of urgent medical care and that you would be saving many lives. There is a huge reward behind emotional and physical exhaustion and that is helping others.
