Becoming a paramedic, specifically the educational prerequisite is different for every state so it is best for you to start your search for paramedic training with the state where you want undertake your training. There are some who want a high level of education from a prestigious school while others prefer longer practical experience above campus training. Regardless of how you are required by the state to become a paramedic, your journey will start by becoming a Certified Emergency Medical Technician (EMT).
There are three stages to become a paramedic. The first step is to be an EMT. You can access your EMT-Basic education and training with community colleges and selected universities. The local government – specifically those in the emergency and rescue departments should have a list for you. The educational requirement to enter this program is either a high school diploma or GED equivalent. Once you finish the EMT-Basic training, you can proceed with the Intermediate part.
Your paramedic training begins in this stage because they will teach you how to act during medical emergencies especially those dealing with trauma, cardiac and respiratory conditions. You will also be taught about the different apparatus and equipment in an ambulance. This training includes how to give patients oxygen and how to transport them safely to the hospital. After you get your education, you need to pass a written and practical exam. Once you are a certified EMT, you can enroll yourself in the second stage of the paramedic training program, the EMT-Intermediate.
The EMT-Intermediate is where the difference lies for several states. Some require only 30 hours of study while others need more than 300 hours. This part of the training will teach you more complicated procedure like giving intravenous fluids to victims/patients and administering oxygen straight through the air passage. Once you finish this stage, you need to pass another examination that is given by the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT).
The third stage in the paramedic training is the EMT-Paramedic program. Some states require a two year associate’s degree before you can apply for this course. Others only require a specified period of vocational training. In this last installment, you will be taught advanced emergency procedures like treating cardiac arrest, allergic reactions and collapsed lungs. There are also management skills that will be taught somewhere along the course of the program. After you complete your education, you need to pass a certification test provided by the NREMT. This exam is valid in all states so moving to different locations will not be a problem.
There is a course that can help you prepare for this exam, as it will test your knowledge on breathing, cardiology, emergency delivery and procedures, trauma treatment and other general medical practices that you may encounter as a paramedic. This is a practical exam that will check if you absorb everything during your paramedic training. It will cover all possible scenarios. Those who clear the exam are given a certificate while the ones who don’t are given pointer on where they went wrong so that they know what to review when they take the test again.
Paramedic training does not end when you get your certificate. You need to renew your certification and this requires you to undergo refresher courses to update your knowledge in medical emergency procedures. Beyond being a paramedic, you can continue your studies to become a trainer or to get promoted to a higher administrative position. You can even pursue a medical degree if you wish to.
