Paramedic

To be a successful Paramedic you should…

EMT-Paramedics work both indoors and outdoors, in all types of weather. EMTs and paramedics work 40+ hours per week. Some of these workers, especially those in volunteer departments, are on call for extended periods. Because emergency services function 24 hours a day, EMTs and paramedics have irregular working hours that add to job stress.   EMT and paramedic work is not only physically strenuous, but may also be stressful, involving life-or-death situations and suffering patients. Nonetheless, many people find the work exciting, challenging and enjoy the opportunity to help others.

Other workplace settings:

• Ambulance, Rescue or Aeromedical
• Educational Institutions
• Hospital Emergency Rooms
• Government Agencies
• Private Industry

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What will my job be like?

EMT-Paramedics respond to health care crises such as heart attacks, unexpected childbirth, car accidents, and fires. Paramedics use their knowledge and skills to provide basic and advanced life support to seriously ill or injured patients before these patients reach the hospital. Under the direction of a physician, EMT-Paramedics are told how to proceed with medical care. They perform CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation), control bleeding, place splints on broken bones, and check pulse and respiration. EMT-Paramedics provide the most extensive pre-hospital care. In addition to performing the procedures already described, paramedics may administer drugs orally and intravenously, interpret electrocardiograms (EKGs), perform endotracheal intubations, and use monitors and other complex equipment.

Where could I work?

EMT-Paramedics work both indoors and outdoors, in all types of weather. EMTs and paramedics work 40+ hours per week. Some of these workers, especially those in volunteer departments, are on call for extended periods. Because emergency services function 24 hours a day, EMTs and paramedics have irregular working hours that add to job stress.

EMT and paramedic work is not only physically strenuous, but may also be stressful, involving life-or-death situations and suffering patients. Nonetheless, many people find the work exciting, challenging and enjoy the opportunity to help others.

Other workplace settings:

• Ambulance, Rescue or Aeromedical
• Educational Institutions
• Hospital Emergency Rooms
• Government Agencies
• Private Industry
• Fire Departments

What is the average annual salary?

$46,300

What is the future of this career?

Employment of emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics is projected to grow 15 percent from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations. Emergencies, such as car crashes, natural disasters, and acts of violence, will continue to require the skills of EMTs and paramedics.

What type of education and/or training do I need?

Formal training and certification is needed to become an EMT -Basic, Intermediate, or Paramedic.   The most advanced level of training for this occupation is EMT-Paramedic. The Paramedic Technology program usually lasts 1400 hours. Extensive related coursework and clinical and field experience is required.

Where can I get the education and/or training?

• Capital Community College, Hartford
• Hartford Hospital School of Allied Health, Hartford
• Housatonic Community College, Bridgeport
• New Britain Emergency Medical Services Academy, New Britain
• Windham Community Memorial Hospital, Willimantic

Do I need a license or certification for this career?

Licensure is required in the state of Connecticut. Prerequisite: Connecticut requires U.S. D.O.T. EMT-Intermediate Training Program, and pass two assessments.

Where can I get more information?

National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians
Rocco V Morando Building, 6610 Busch Boulevard, PO Box 29233
Columbus, OH   43229
614-888-4484
www.nremt.org