Paramedic/Ambulance Attendant
Ambulance attendants are usually first at the scene in emergency situations. An extension of the hospital, their job is to quickly assess the medical needs of patients and provide emergency care before transporting patients to the hospital. People’s lives depend on their ability to make good decisions with speed and sound judgement, and the environment in which this must be done is often panicked and sometimes dangerous. Ambulance attendants must be strong, brave people who are able to work under intense pressure and be willing to put their own health at risk to help save the lives of others.
The Cool Things They Do:
- Assess the extent of injuries or illness of trauma victims
- Collect information on patients’ health conditions, such as a drug allergies, epilepsy, or diabetes
- Give emergency medical care including CPR, splints, and bandaging
- Decide on medications necessary and administer them
- Take the patient to a hospital by ambulance and inform the hospital staff about the person's medical history and current problem
- Keep their ambulances and equipment in good condition and well-stocked with supplies
- Write reports about the emergency situations and care given
Working Conditions:
Ambulance attendants work both indoors and outdoors—travelling back and forth between emergency situations and hospitals. They work under intense conditions and are often exposed to violence from drug overdose victims and mentally ill patients. They also risk exposure to dangerous diseases. With their work involving a great deal of bending and heavy lifting, they face physical strain as well as possible hearing loss from loud sirens. It is stressful and emotionally-taxing. Ambulance attendants usually work long (24-hour) shifts.
Most Paramedics/Ambulance Attendants Work In:
- Hospitals
- Private ambulance services
- Municipal and provincial governments
- Fire departments
- Industrial settings
Personal Characteristics/Skills:
- Strong desire to help people in times of crisis
- Sensitivity, compassion, and patience
- Good memory and quick recall for assessing situations and making judgements
- Ability to be decisive and work well under intense pressure in unexpected situations
- Strong oral and written communication skills
- Capability to function with little sleep
- Good physical fitness
Education and Training Required:
College Diploma in Ambulance, Emergency Care or Paramedics followed by a supervised practical training period
Length of Study/Training : 2-3 years post-secondary
Certification (s):
Ontario : must pass Emergency Medical Care Assistant (E.M.C.A.) examinations
Helpful High School Courses:
- Math
- Sciences
- English
- First-aid
Employment Prospects - GOOD
Our growing and aging population, restructured health care funding, and pressure for more on-scene medical attention have all increased demand. There are currently more job openings than qualified people to fill them. Demand will likely also grow because of an increase in urban living, as well as stress-induced turnover among employees.
Earnings:
Average Annual Salary: $35,000 - $45,000.
More Information:
Paramedic Association of Canada
http://www.paramedic.ca
Land Ambulance Transition (Ontario)
http://www.amo-ehs.com
Ontario Paramedic Association
http://www.ontarioparamedic.ca
Toronto Emergency Medical Services
http://www.city.toronto.on.ca/ems
Job Futures: Ambulance Attendants and Other Paramedical Occupations
http://jobfutures.ca/noc/3234.shtml
Note:
If you would like further information on any of these careers, be sure to ask your teacher or guidance counsellor.
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